The Japanese word "raikou" is a beautiful and meaningful word that describes the sunrise as viewed from the top of a high mountain. It is made up of two kanji characters: "rai" (来) which means "to come," and "kou" (光) which means "light." Together, these characters create a word that captures the breathtaking beauty of the rising sun and the hope and promise of a new day.

The land of the rising sun is a popular nickname for Japan, and it is easy to see why. With its location in the eastern part of the world, Japan is one of the first places where the sun rises each day. This has given rise to a deep cultural appreciation for the beauty of the sunrise and the symbolism it represents.

For many people, the sunrise represents a new beginning, a fresh start, and a chance to seize the day. It is a time of hope, inspiration, and possibility. Watching the sunrise from the top of a high mountain can be an awe-inspiring experience that fills the heart with wonder and reminds us of the power and beauty of nature.

In Japan, the concept of "ichi-go ichi-e" is deeply connected to the idea of seizing the day. It is a phrase that means "one time, one meeting" and emphasizes the importance of treasuring every moment and making the most of each opportunity. This philosophy is rooted in the belief that every moment is unique and will never be repeated, just like the beauty of the sunrise.

In this manner, Raikou harkens to the spirit found in our products, a spirit that originates in the maker who labors to build and is then transferred to you so that you can experience the finest products that Japan has to offer. We hope to be that shining light, beckoning you to rise and seize the coming day and the hope and promise of every new day. It is a reminder to appreciate the natural world around us and to seize each opportunity to make the most of our time on this earth. Whether we watch the sunrise from the top of a high mountain or simply take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the world around us, we can all find inspiration in the power and symbolism that is now imbued in our products.

Experience Raikou,

Takanori Suzuki

Founder

  • Mr. Suzuki, president and founder of Raikou headshot

    Mr. Suzuki

    Founder and CEO | Customer Relations

  • Mr. Goto cutting knife sharpener and master artisan for Raikou

    Mr. Goto

    Bladesmith | Santoku, Pan-kiri

  • Mr. Matsubara cutting board maker, master craftsman from Raikou

    Mr. Matsubara

    Craftsman | Cutting Boards

  • Mr Kuroda's headshot

    Mr. Kuroda

    Marketing | E-Commerce