9 Best Japanese Knives of 2024 (Ranked and Reviewed)

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Japanese knives are renowned worldwide for their exceptional sharpness, precision, and craftsmanship.

Whether you’re a professional chef or a cooking enthusiast, investing in the best Japanese knives can elevate your culinary experience to a whole new level.

In this blog post, we will explore the best Japanese knives that offer unparalleled performance, durability, and versatility.

Let’s dive in.

What Are The Best Japanese Knives?

Here are our top picks of the best Japanese knives you can consider purchasing this year:

1. Shun Cutlery Classic Western Cook’s Knife

Best Overall Japanese Knife

The Shun Cutlery Classic Western Cook’s Knife stands out among Japanese knives, designed for the Western-style kitchen. 

This 8-inch all-purpose kitchen knife is perfect for preparing various ingredients, including meat, fish, vegetables, and more.

Features

• The knife’s 22-degree cutting angle adds extra strength to the blade, making it capable of tackling heavier foods such as winter squash and large heads of cabbage.
• The VG-MAX cutting core and 68 layers of stainless Damascus steel used in the knife’s construction make it exceptionally durable and resistant to corrosion and staining. The blade also boasts a razor-sharp edge that can easily slice through food.
• The handle is crafted in a D-shaped design using Pakkawood, ensuring a comfortable grip even during extended periods of use. Additionally, its ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
• The Shun Classic Western Cook’s Knife is handcrafted by highly skilled artisans, following the traditional Japanese approach to knife-making. This ensures that each knife is of unparalleled quality and beauty.

Pricing

At the time of publishing this, Japanese boning knife cost:

• $185 on Amazon

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• The knife is durable.
• The knife is handcrafted by skilled artisans.
• The Pakkawood handle’s D-shaped design ensures a comfortable grip, even during extended use, and it is also crafted to be ambidextrous.

Dislike:

• It is a bit pricey compared to other similar kitchen knives in the market.

2. Yoshihiro Gyuto Japanese Chefs Knife

Best Value Japanese Knife

The Yoshihiro Gyuto Japanese Chefs Knife is a handcrafted knife that combines beauty, functionality, and extraordinary value. 

It is made in Japan with traditional techniques; this knife features a VG-10 core and 46 layers of steel in the Damascus tradition, making it a top-performing knife. 

The Gyuto knife is an essential and versatile tool for any cook, capable of efficiently cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.

Features

• The knife is forged and hammered with 46 layers of steel in the Damascus tradition, which creates a distinctive and beautiful pattern on the blade.
• The knife has a VG-10 core, a high-quality steel known for its durability, sharpness, and resistance to rust and corrosion.
• The Gyuto knife’s versatility in cutting meat, fish, and vegetables makes it an essential tool for any cook.
• The knife features a traditional Japanese Wa-style handcrafted Octagonal Handle that is lightweight and ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the hand.
• The knife comes with a protective wooden sheath called a Saya, which protects it and adds to its appearance when unused.
• The blade’s hammered texture effectively eliminates friction and prevents food from sticking, resulting in more efficient cutting and chopping.
• The knife is made in Japan using traditional techniques and values a sharp edge, which requires attention and care.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $190 on Amazon

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• The blade’s Damascus pattern adds a beautiful and unique touch to the knife.
• The Wa-style handcrafted Octagonal Handle is ergonomic and adds aesthetic appeal.
• The included wooden Saya sheath provides protection for the knife.

Dislike:

• The price may be too high for some users.
• Some users may find the weight and balance of the knife different from what they are used to.

3. Miyabi Birchwood Chef’s Knife

Best High-End Japanese Knife

The Miyabi Birchwood Chef’s Knife is a renowned Japanese knife highly sought after by professional chefs and home cooks alike. 

With its exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional performance, this knife has become a symbol of precision, elegance, and artistry in the world of culinary tools. 

Its unique design and superior quality make it a prized possession that will surely enhance any kitchen experience.

Features

• The blade comprises 101 layers of steel, with 2 layers clad on each side of the Cryodur SG2 microcarbide steel core.
• The layering process creates a unique and intricate Damascus pattern on the blade that is both beautiful and functional.
• The blade’s Rockwell hardness rating of 63 signifies exceptional durability and resistance to damage.
• The blade is hand-finished by craftsmen using a classic honbazuke blade-honing technique that ensures a sharp and precise edge.
• The knife’s genuine hamon edge evokes the legendary Japanese swords, offering scalpel-like precision and remarkable edge retention.
• The natural Masur birch handle has a D-shape that creates a comfortable grip and ensures tireless cutting.
• The handsome handle features an intricate mosaic center pin, red detailing, and an engraved endcap that adds to its overall aesthetic appeal.
• The blade undergoes a double sharpening process on whetstones with custom grits, followed by mirror polishing on a leather wheel, ensuring utmost sharpness and precision.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $270 on Amazon
• $300 on Walmart

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• It is way more durable.
• The knife has exceptional craftsmanship.
• The knife is sharp and precise.

Dislike:

• The knife is quite expensive, which may make it less accessible for some home cooks.
• If improperly handled, the knife’s delicate design and sharp edge may make it more susceptible to damage.

4. Global 8-inch Chef’s Knife

Best Japanese Knife for Precision

The Global 8-inch Chef’s Knife is a well-known and widely used kitchen tool that has earned a reputation for its exceptional quality and performance. 

This knife’s sleek design and exceptional craftsmanship have made it a beloved choice among both professional chefs and home cooks.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, the Global Chef’s Knife is an essential tool that is sure to enhance your culinary experience.

Features

• The knife is designed to be lightweight and balanced for ease of use and optimal performance.
• Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, the blade exhibits remarkable durability and excellent resistance against rust and corrosion.
• The blade is crafted to retain its razor-sharp edge exceptionally well, ensuring it can easily handle any kitchen task.
• The handle is made of stainless steel and is designed to hold comfortably, even during extended use.
• The handle is dimpled to provide a safe and secure grip, even when the knife is wet or greasy.
• The knife comes with a lifetime warranty covering defects and breakage, providing peace of mind and ensuring that the knife will last for years.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $85 on Amazon
• $70 on Walmart

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• Lightweight and balanced.
• Durable blade.
• Razor-sharp edge retention.
• Comfortable handle.

Dislike:

• Rectangular handle may not be comfortable for some users.

5. Shun Cutlery Kanso Santoku 7 Inch Knife

Best Japanese Santoku Knife

The Shun Cutlery Kanso Santoku 7 Inch Knife, is a premium-grade kitchen knife that has been crafted with meticulous attention to detail. 

Drawing on centuries of Japanese cutlery tradition, this knife is a true masterpiece of design and engineering, with a razor-sharp blade and an exquisitely balanced handle. 

Features

• The Shun Kanso Santoku knife is an Asian-inspired knife designed to handle all basic kitchen cutting tasks efficiently.
• The blade is versatile with a shorter length, agile maneuverability, a slight belly curve, and hollow-ground indentations that allow for easy, precise, and controlled cuts.
• The knife is constructed with high-quality materials, including AUS10A high-carbon stainless steel refined with Vanadium, enhancing its strength, wear, and corrosion resistance.
• The handle is made from durable, contoured tagayasan, known as “iron sword wood,” which provides a secure grip and precision balance.
• The Shun Kanso Santoku knife is a product of traditional Japanese artisan cutlery, carefully crafted by highly skilled artisans, resulting in a blade of exceptional beauty and quality.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $99 on Amazon
• $134 on Walmart

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• Exceptional sharpness that makes cutting tasks effortless
• Beautiful design and craftsmanship
• Well-balanced handle that feels comfortable and secure in the hand
• This knife features a versatile blade capable of handling a wide range of kitchen tasks.

Dislike: 

• The handle may not be suitable for those with larger hands.

6. MITSUMOTO SAKARI 8-inch Japanese Gyuto Chef Knife

Best Japanese Gyuto Knife for Professional Chefs

The MITSUMOTO SAKARI 8-inch Japanese Gyuto Chef Knife is a premium-quality kitchen knife that combines traditional Japanese hand-forging techniques with advanced technology and materials. 

Features

• Made using traditional Japanese hand-forging techniques and advanced materials.
• 3 layers of top-grade 9CR18MOV high-carbon steel offer exceptional corrosion resistance, rust prevention, and toughness, with a hardness of up to 58±2HRC.
• The ultra-thin 2.5mm blade is designed to keep fruits, vegetables, and meats in their best condition while cutting.
• The solid rosewood handle is ergonomically designed to minimize wrist tension and provide a comfortable grip.
• It comes in a professional gift box, making it an excellent gift for any occasion.
• Passes strict quality audits and comes with a professional service team to address any quality issues.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $55 on Amazon
• $62 on Walmart

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• High-quality materials and craftsmanship
• Comes in a professional gift box, making it an excellent gift option
• Ultra-thin blade designed for optimal cutting performance

Dislike:

• Might not be suitable for those who prefer heavier knives

7. Aisyoko Damascus Chef Knife 8 Inch Sharp Kitchen Knife

Best Black Japanese Knife

The Aisyoko Damascus Chef Knife is an 8-inch kitchen knife perfect for home cooks and professional chefs. 

With its unique and beautiful natural casting texture, scalpel-like sharpness, and long-lasting sharpness, this knife is an excellent choice for those who appreciate high-quality kitchen tools. 

Features

• The blade comprises 67-layer Damascus high-carbon stainless steel with a professional, super steel VG10 cutting core.
• The knife has a cutting angle of 11-15° on each side, making it incredibly sharp and ideal for slicing, chopping, and cutting various foods.
• The ultra-thin blade features cutting-edge technology that ensures long-lasting sharpness and no sharpening for a year.
• The blade is 8 inches long, perfect for most cutting and slicing tasks.
• The handle is made of premium military-grade G10 material virtually immune to heat, cold, and moisture.
• The handle has a 3D design that fits snugly in your hand, providing a comfortable and firm grip no matter which grip you use.
• The knife has a unique and beautiful natural casting texture, making it an excellent choice for high-end gift-giving.
• The knife’s sharp edge suits various foods, including meats, vegetables, fruits, and more.
• The knife’s striking angle, combined with its high-quality materials, guarantees long-lasting durability.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $130 on Amazon

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• The knife is made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and long-lasting sharpness.
• The unique natural casting texture of the blade is visually appealing and makes it a great gift.

Dislike: 

• The ultra-thin blade may require extra care and maintenance to prevent chipping or damage.
• The knife may not be dishwasher safe, which may be inconvenient for some users.

8. Huusk Viking Knives Hand Forged 5.7 Boning Knife

Best Budget Japanese Knife

The Huusk Viking Knives Hand-Forged Boning Knife is a high-quality kitchen tool for professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts.

Its unique design and construction make it stylish and practical, while its sharp blade allows for precise cutting and effortless meal preparation. 

Features

• It is constructed from premium Japanese steel for toughness and durability.
• It is handcrafted to create a precise, long-lasting cut.
• Multipurpose design is suitable for trimming brisket, skinning or breaking down a whole chicken, or separating ribs from pork loin.
• The curved profile of the blade allows for precise separation of meat and bone.
• The blade’s unique hammered texture enhances its corrosion resistance and prevents food from sticking.
• The curved wood handle, along with the large finger hole, offers a secure grip, providing excellent control when filleting fish, chopping vegetables, and deboning meat.
• The complete Tang design prevents the knife from falling easily.
• The knife includes a convenient soft leather sheath, making it easy to carry during camping or outdoor activities.
• High-end gift box packaging makes it an excellent gift for family and friends.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $30 on Amazon

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• The complete Tang design prevents the knife from falling easily.
• Constructed from premium Japanese steel for durability and toughness.

Dislike:

• The knife requires hand washing, which some customers may find inconvenient.
• The curved profile of the blade may not be suitable for some cutting tasks, such as slicing or chopping.

9. KYOKU 10.5 Yanagiba Japanese Sushi Knife

Best Japanese Sushi Knife

The KYOKU 10.5 Yanagiba Japanese Sushi Knife is a top-of-the-line kitchen tool for professional chefs and home cooks alike. 

This knife is specially designed for sushi making, with its ultra-sharp blade and authentic wenge wood handle. 

It combines Japanese craftsmanship and modern technology, producing a knife that delivers unrivaled performance and precision.

Features

• The knife is made from ultra-sharp cobalt-added and cryogenically treated steel with a cutting core at HRC 56-58 hardness. This gives the knife excellent edge retention and unmatched performance.
• The perfect balance between comfort and performance allows the user to slice through meat while avoiding fatigue and finger pains easily.
• The knife’s handle is made of authentic wenge wood, providing an attractive and comfortable grip.
• The ruthlessly sharp edge of the knife is handcrafted by seasoned artisans to a mirror polish at 11-13° single side. This painstaking manufacturing process results in incredible hardness, flexibility, and corrosion resistance.
• The knife has a lifetime warranty, and the company offers free exchange or return if the item is defective.

Pricing

At the time of publishing, this Japanese knife cost:

• $40 on Amazon

What We Like/Dislike

Like:

• Superior steel and extreme sharpness for high-performance sushi-making.
• Well-balanced design and wenge wood handle for comfortable use.
• Lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

Dislike:

• Blade’s extreme sharpness requires careful handling and maintenance.
• Specialized design may limit versatility for other kitchen tasks.

Factors to Consider When Buying Japanese Knives

When purchasing Japanese knives, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best knife for your needs:

Blade Material

Japanese knives are usually made of high-quality steel, such as VG-10, VG-MAX, and AUS-10. Consider the type of steel used and its quality when making a purchase.

Blade Shape

Japanese knives are typically either single or double-beveled. Single-beveled knives are best for precision cutting, while double-beveled knives are better for versatility.

Blade Length

Japanese knives come in various sizes, ranging from small paring knives to large chef’s knives. Consider the tasks you’ll be performing and the size of your hand when selecting the blade length.

Handle Material

Handles are typically made of wood or synthetic materials such as plastic or resin. Select a handle material that offers comfort and ensures a secure grip.

Blade Thickness

The thickness of the blade affects its weight, balance, and durability. Consider the thickness of the blade depending on the tasks you’ll be performing.

Price

Japanese knives can range in price from affordable to very expensive. When making a purchase, take into account both your budget and the knife’s quality.

Brand

Many different brands make Japanese knives. Consider the reputation of the brand and the quality of its products when selecting a knife.

FAQs

How do Japanese knives differ from Western knives?

Japanese knives and Western knives differ in several ways. Japanese knives typically have a single-bevel design, which allows for more precise cuts, while Western knives usually feature a double-bevel technique. Japanese knives are also thinner and lighter than their Western counterparts, making them ideal for delicate tasks.

What are some popular types of Japanese knives? 

Some popular types of Japanese knives include the Gyuto, which is a versatile all-purpose knife; the Santoku, which is a smaller, lighter knife that is ideal for chopping vegetables; and the Yanagiba, which is a long, narrow knife used for slicing raw fish.

What are some care tips for Japanese knives? 

To care for your Japanese knife, be sure to clean and dry it thoroughly after each use and store it in a protective sheath or knife block. To maintain the blade’s sharpness, avoid cutting on hard surfaces like ceramic or glass, and instead, use a honing rod or sharpening stone.

Wrap Up

Japanese knives are a must-have for any serious home cook or professional chef. They offer exceptional sharpness, precision, and durability, making them ideal for various cutting tasks. 

Whether you’re looking for a versatile all-purpose knife or a specialized blade for slicing raw fish, there’s a Japanese knife out there for you. 

When choosing a Japanese knife, consider factors such as blade type, blade length, handle type, and steel quality, and remember to take care of your knife with proper cleaning and sharpening techniques. 

With a high-quality Japanese knife in your kitchen, you’ll be able to take your culinary skills to the next level and enjoy the satisfaction of creating beautiful, perfectly cut dishes.