Japan is famous for a lot of things, and the best Japanese knives are no exception. Japanese knives are some of the best in the world and have been perfected by local craftspeople for generations. But what exactly makes Japanese knives so great? 

Japanese knives are coveted for their beautiful and detailed design, as well as the cuts they produce. Their blades are typically thin and delicate, and prone to breaking if you don't take care of them properly — not ideal for the clumsy chef. They allow for thin, precise cuts and beautiful presentation; the ones you’d find in a five-star sushi restaurant.

Whether it’s a splurge or starter option, it’s time to upgrade your dull-ass kitchen knives. Brand favorites like Shun, Miyabi, and Yoshihiro continue to live up to their reputation for unmatched craftsmanship and precision. That said, finding the best Japanese knife brand is a matter of personal preference. Consider your current and aspirational kitchen tasks. 

Japanese knives are generally lighter and sharper than their German counterparts. Since they're thinner, they're a little more prone to the tip breaking or the blade chipping, so Japanese knives tend to need more maintenance. Their thin, light construction makes Japanese knives great for fine, delicate tasks, like cutting vegetables or slicing fish. “

The best Japanese knife is the knife that works best for you. When shopping for knives, Lau first asks his customers what they’ll be using their knives for. Professional chefs and home cooks typically have different needs: Professional chefs tend to use their knives upwards of 40 hours of week, while home chefs typically use them for about twenty minutes a day to prep dinner.

Your Best Bet: Zahocho 

Zahocho Knives Tokyo is a Japan-based online shop specializing in authentic Japanese kitchen knives. We aim to provide reasonably-priced Japanese knives for our fellow Filipino chefs, cooks, and enthusiasts. We also cater to fellow enthusiasts from other countries. We ship worldwide via EMS or DHL. Get ready to buy the gyuto knife.