Niwaki
Japanese Garden Tools Crafted for a Lifetime of Precision and Beauty
Most garden tools are made to be replaced — plastic handles that crack, blades that dull quickly, designs that lack soul. Niwaki is proof that there’s another way. Founded in 2010 by Jake Hobson, a sculptor-turned-gardener who fell in love with the art of Japanese pruning in Kyoto, Niwaki reimagines tools as lifelong companions.
From Kyoto’s Gardens to Your Home
While working among the manicured temple gardens of Japan, Hobson experienced a style of gardening rooted in precision, patience, and respect for materials. Returning to the UK, he set out to share that philosophy, sourcing tools from Japan’s most skilled blacksmiths and craftspeople. Today, Niwaki offers everything from carbon steel secateurs and Hori Hori knives to tripod ladders — each built for performance, comfort, and longevity.
The Craftsmanship Difference
What sets Niwaki apart isn’t just its aesthetic appeal — though the tools are undeniably beautiful. It’s the choice of high-carbon steel blades for unmatched sharpness, wooden handles that mould to your grip over time, and replaceable parts to extend lifespan. Every design is rooted in centuries-old techniques, ensuring tools that not only work better but last longer.
Tools for Every Gardener
Whether you’re pruning roses in an English cottage garden or shaping cloud trees in a Japanese-inspired courtyard, Niwaki has a tool for the task. The GR Pro Secateurs are a favourite among professional gardeners for their perfect balance and effortless cutting action. The tripod ladders — lightweight yet incredibly stable — make precision work at height safe and comfortable.
Sustainability in Practice
Niwaki’s approach is inherently sustainable: tools designed to last decades reduce the need for frequent replacements and minimise waste. Many models are fully serviceable, with spare parts available, encouraging repair over disposal.
A Growing Cultural Presence
From their Chiltern Street shop in London, Niwaki has built a loyal following among both professional landscapers and design-conscious homeowners. Collaborations with brands like The Newt in Somerset and features in publications such as The Financial Times and Wallpaper speak to their appeal beyond traditional gardening circles.
Why Now Is the Time to Invest
In an age of disposable everything, Niwaki offers a chance to own something truly enduring. With spring planting season ahead, now is the perfect time to invest in tools that will serve you for decades — and bring a sense of craft and care to every moment in the garden.