Hida Tool & Hardware is a store specializing in Japanese tools, knives, and gardening equipment. It was started in response to requests from San Francisco Bay Area woodworkers. The business is known for its extensive collection and is described as a very nice place like an old-fashioned hardware store. The owner is very knowledgeable and helpful, offering suggestions without pushing the most expensive items. The staff are very friendly and professional. Customers praise the quality and affordability of the products, stating no other retailer comes close. The tools, particularly carbon steel shears and pruners, are noted for being well-made, long-lasting, and having excellent edge retention. The store also offers very reasonable knife sharpening and teaches a three-stone sharpening technique. They provide reliable service, with orders processed quickly even under last-minute circumstances. The store carries specialized items like woodblock printing tools and is highly recommended by its customers, including repeat clients who manage farms and rely on the tools' quality and performance.
This store one of the reasons I love Berkeley. A quirky family run business selling hand crafted tools that are of the highest quality.
February 2026
excellent store, great staff, good selection.
If you're looking for cheap, poor quality tools, this is not the place. If you believe in paying what it costs to have handmade tools made by true craftspeople, then you're lucky to live in an area that has Hida Tools.
December 2025
Not the friendliest bunch of people, & I wish they can work on their customer service….but, hey, they do carry high quality items—knives, cutting boards, and a myriad of other wonderful things made from Japan.
