Abstract: [Problem] To provide a hardness tester capable of measuring hardness accurately without removing a surface layer and also provide a hardness testing method. [Solution] An initial test load which is arbitrarily changed from a reference value is applied to the surface of a sample by an indenter 11, a major test load obtained by adding an additional test load to the initial test load is applied thereto, and the load is returned to the initial test load. The difference in depth of penetration of the indenter between the first and second two initial test loads is referenced to determine test hardness of the sample based on a Rockwell hardness computing equation. Correction is made for deviation of hardness from the thus determined test hardness due to a change in the initial test load from the reference value.