Kitchen Knives from Japan

Hi,

I'm heading to Japan next year

I want to buy some good quality knives. Does anyone know any good knife makers or stores?

I wasn't sure if I have to order them or can I just buy on the spot.

Mainly based in Tokyo.

anyone know?

Thanks

Comments

  • Kappabashi, also known as kitchen town has all the supplies you need!

    http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3020.html

  • Kyocera ceramic?

    Depends what you mostly chop and cut.

    Prefer German Wushtof but Japan's 'Global' brand is alright too.

  • @grillman- thanks, will definitely check that place out

    @adamren- I have tried kyocera ceramic, way too light for me. I light my knives to have a bit of weight to it. I already have a set of western knives, looking for Jap ones. Everyone raves about Global but I have seen a few images online where it snaps in two, so I want something that is less mass produced.

  • At a minimum you'd probably want to be looking at Shun knives (even though these are comparatively 'mass produced' compared to the master-crafted knives you could find in Japan). Look for what we call in the west 'damascus steel' knives - i.e. layers of steel folded and beaten to create the blade, thereby causing a distinct wavy pattern on the blade: https://www.google.com.au/search?q=global+knives&source=lnms…

    perhaps have a look thru here as well for more ideas, and names of master blade craftsmen http://www.bladeforums.com/

    Also, never go for those 'block sets' - focus on two knives that will meet almost every need (I use a 10" Chefs knife and a 5" paring knife), and buy the best you can. Looked after well, there is no reason your grandkids won't be using them in future.

  • I went to a place called Union Commerce Co. (weird name, I know), which came highly recommended. You can definitely buy on the spot…they have a MASSIVE selection.
    It's on Kappabashi Dori Ave.

  • Aritsugu store in Nishiki Market, Kyoto, Japan
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aritsugu

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