Niwaki Hori Hori
Read on to discover which Hori Hori is best for you (but really, you can’t go far wrong with any of them)
Niwaki Hori Hori Pro
Forged from SK-5 carbon steel and handmade by a third-generation family in the Miki, Hyogo (the home of horticultural blacksmithing), this upgraded essential is the perfect blend of utility and craftsmanship.
The sharp sides and pointed tip cut through weeds with ease, while the concave blade is great for getting into tight spaces – especially when you need to remove root-bound plants.
We’ve even added a flash of red to the canvas holster – so everyone can spot your ‘pro’ credentials from a distance.
Niwaki Hori Hori
The original subterranean rummager – this Niwaki Hori Hori is the classic carbon steel design, featuring a 167mm blade, firmly riveted onto a beech wood handle for extra strength and stability. It’s not indestructible, or quite as hardwearing as the Hori Hori Pro, but it still does a jolly good job, and carries a special kind of Niwaki nostalgia for sentimental folk.
Niwaki S-Type Hori Hori
Take a beloved classic, add a razor-sharp edge, and you’ve got the Niwaki S-Type Hori Hori.
The stainless steel makes it easier to care for, while the serrated edge severs roots like butter. Just don’t go putting it in your jacket or trouser pocket without its sheath (a good rule for all Hori Hori).
Niwaki Mini S-Type Hori Hori
For smaller scale weeding and planting, the Mini S-Type Hori Hori is the one you want. Ideal for rooting about in pots, its serrated stainless steel blade is indispensable in the greenhouse and excels at precision weeding.
We’ve found it very handy for helping to ease out root-bound plants when you’re re-potting, but no doubt you will find your own preferred use. Carry it everywhere in a Niwaki Pouch so it’s ready when you need it.
Don’t let its diminutive scale deceive you – it’s viciously sharp, so watch out!
Yes, yes … but what is a Hori Hori?
Niwaki Hori Hori have gained something of a cult following in gardening circles, with enthusiastic converts spreading the gospel of their many, many uses over garden fences and throughout allotments. They might look medieval (the Hori Hori, not the enthusiastic converts), but this trusty weeding trowel is far more friend than foe – unless you’re a weed.
Traditionally used by Japanese farmers and foragers, Hori Hori literally means “dig dig”; there’s a degree of onomatopoeia at work, with “hori hori” supposedly being the sound of digging in the earth (no, we can’t hear it either). Originally developed for unearthing mountain vegetables (bamboo shoots, mushrooms and so on), some clever chap realised the design offered almost endless possibilities in the garden. Revered now for its strength, versatility, and ergonomic design, you can tackle weeding, planting, seed drilling, pot scraping, stone prising, snail flicking… and plenty more besides without ever switching tools.
Our classic design has evolved, and, with the help of Japanese blacksmiths, we’ve developed a whole family of multi-purpose Hori Hori, each with their own strengths. Chances are, there’s a least one (or two) that’ll suit your needs.
Accessories and curiosities
Supporting evidence
In case you still need convincing that your life would be better with a Hori Hori by your side, we asked friend of Niwaki Alys Hurn to turn her attention to the Japanese wonder tool:
10 JOBS A HORI HORI DOES BETTER THAN ANY OTHER GARDEN TOOL
10 jobs a Hori Hori does better than any other garden tool
Literally meaning “dig dig”, the Hori Hori knife can do far more than its name suggests.
Made in Japan, the knife was inspired by Japanese farmers and foragers who traditionally used it to forage for mountain vegetables, such as bamboo shoots and mushrooms. Now it has made its way into the hands of gardeners worldwide and earned something of a cult following…(click to read more)
What is a Hori Hori? The Beginner’s Guide to Japan’s Most Versatile Garden Knife
What is a Hori Hori? The Beginner’s Guide to Japan’s Most Versatile Garden Knife
Life has been busy, and the garden has become unruly. Thanks to a burst of unusually hot weather in May and then sporadic downpours ever since, the weeds have happily made themselves at home. The leaves of the spent spring bulbs I planted in the front garden beds are yellow and dry. There’s a bramble I’m now swerving to get to the front door and there are several containers in need of a refresh…(click to read more)