Japanese knives are famous around the world because of how sharp they are. But the truth is, not every Japanese knife can boast a sharp edge, and not all those that do will stay that way forever. So, when people say they want a “Japanese knife,” they specifically mean a sharp tool that they can use for the rest of their lives. That’s why in this article, a former professional Japanese chef will be presenting seven specially-selected knives that are recommended for “regular” people and especially those who love to cook. We hope that this guide helps you find the knife of your dreams.
The Pros and Cons of Japanese Knives
Merits
・Amazing Sharpness
International travelers who visited Japan before the Meiji Period (1868 – 1912) and the issuing of the Haito Edict, which prohibited the carrying of samurai swords, used to refer to Japanese katana as “razor swords.” Those weapons are the basis of modern Japanese knives, which explains their incredible sharpness. The knives use the same swordsmithing techniques that allowed the physically small Japanese people to cut just about anything with their swords. That’s why a Japanese knife cuts even better than a cleaver and, because of its light weight, is much easier to handle.
・The Price
The price is one of the first things that people worry about, but the truth is that not all Japanese knives are expensive. Also, you have to remember that you’re buying a knife that, with proper care and maintenance, will last you for a very long time, so spending a little more on it now will end up saving you money in the long run. In fact, I have a Sakai Uchi Hamono knife that I inherited from my grandfather that is still sharp 50 years in.
・The High Quality
Japanese knives have a history that spans more than 1,000 years, but despite that and the fact that they’ve spread to every corner of the country, there are only a few places in Japan that make them. Because the craft has such a long, proud history, every place that couldn’t cut it and produce a quality knife was ignored and forgotten about, leaving only those knife-producing regions that both honor time-tested bladesmithing techniques and improve upon them. That’s why Japanese knives are of such high quality.
Cons
・You Have to Maintain Them
It’s true that Japanese “honyaki” knives, which are made entirely from steel, need to be handled carefully so that they don’t rust. However, there are also modern Japanese knives made with the most cutting-edge technologies that make them impervious to rust and easy to maintain. For example, there are Damascus steel knives or stainless knives coated with powdered steel. Modern sharpeners are equally high-grade, too, so you don’t have to use a whetstone or anything.
・Made Especially for Japanese Cuisine
Japanese “wabocho” kitchen knives only have one bevel, which makes them difficult to handle. You also need one specially made for whichever hand (right or left) you prefer. They are great for cutting sashimi or sushi, but they actually come in many different varieties depending on the task, and are therefore more geared towards professionals.
Related articles:
▶ 8 Things You Didn’t Know About Japanese Kitchen Knives
▶ The Complete Guide to Traditional Japanese Crafts
1. 31-layer V10 Damascus Santoku with octagonal Oak Handle
This BECOS original santoku knife has a beautiful Damascus steel blade with 31 layers. It is a masterwork that blends artistry with performance, making it an ideal choice for any culinary enthusiast.
Crafted in Sakai, Osaka from premium VG10 Damascus steel, its blade is exceptionally sharp, ensuring precise cuts through meat, fish, and vegetables alike. The intricate damascus pattern on the blade showcases traditional Japanese craftsmanship, while the ergonomic handle offers comfort and gives the knife a refined, minimalist appearance. Perfect for both professional kitchens and home chefs, this knife is a timeless investment in quality and elegance.
・Blade Length: 170 mm
・Brand: BECOS (made in partnership with Takahashi Kusu from Sakai, Osaka)
Related article: ▶ The Epitome of Japanese Knives! Yamawaki Cutlery: Leading the World of High-End Japanese Sakai Knives
2.Large 240 mm Damascus Gyuto with Oak Handle
This Yamawaki Gyuto Knife features a beautiful 44-layer Damascus AUS-10 steel blade held in an oak handle finished with "kakishibu", a ntarual stain derrived from the persimmon tree. Designed for versatile use, it seamlessly handles meats, fish, and vegetables with ease. Its ergonomic wooden handle provides a comfortable grip for prolonged use, making it an excellent choice for both professional chefs and home cooks looking to elevate their kitchen tools with authentic Japanese craftsmanship.
・Blade length: 240 mm
・Brand: Yamawaki Cutlery
3. Shirogami No. 2 Steel Yanagiba Sashimi Knife
This exceptional Japanese sashimi knife combines centuries-old craftsmanship with modern precision. Made from Yasuki Hagane "Shirogane" White Steel No.2, it offers superior sharpness and durability, allowing for clean, effortless cuts essential for sashimi preparation. The blade undergoes traditional "Hongazumi" forging, ensuring a refined, balanced feel in hand, ideal for chefs and enthusiasts alike. With a single-edged design, it is crafted specifically for right-handed use, enhancing control and finesse. This knife embodies Japanese culinary artistry, making it a prized addition to any kitchen.
・Blade length: 260 mm
・Brand：Takahashi Kusu
4. 170 mm AUS10 Hammered Damascus Knife with Oak Octagonal Handle
The sister knife to the first santoku introduced above, this Santoku knife is an artful blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and practical performance that is only available on BECOS. Instead of a mirror finish, this knife is finished with a rough hammered pattern over the AUS10 Damascus steel, giving it a striking aesthetic. Its octagonal oak handle offers a comfortable, balanced grip, enhancing precision for daily chopping, slicing, and dicing. Crafted by skilled artisans, this Santoku is a versatile kitchen essential, bringing elegance and exceptional performance to every cooking task.
・Blade length: 170 mm
・Brand: BECOS
5. Indigo-dyed 170 mm AUS10 Hammered Damascus Knife 
This is the same knife as above, but featuring a rare handle dyed a deep shade of blue with Japanese indigo ("ai-zome"). This Santoku knife is an artful blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and practical performance that is only available on BECOS. The blade is finished with a rough hammered pattern over the AUS10 Damascus steel, giving it a striking aesthetic. Its octagonal oak handle offers a comfortable, balanced grip, enhancing precision for daily chopping, slicing, and dicing. Crafted by skilled artisans, this Santoku is a versatile kitchen essential, bringing elegance and exceptional performance to every cooking task.
・Blade length: 170 mm
・Brand: BECOS
6. Masahiro MV Gyutou Knife 9.4-inch
This is a beautiful santoku knife with a flowing Damascus pattern and reliable AUS10 steel. The knife can be used for a wide range of foods such as meat, fish, and vegetables, and can be used in various ways to expand the range of cooking.
The striking handle is made of walnut, which is resistant to water damage and has a luxurious feel. This blade has a great price for the quality that you get, and is highly recommended.
・Blade length: 165 mm
・Brand: Yamawaki Cutlery
7. Forged Black Knives Santoku Knife 170 mm
The black look of the knife is a sign of its honyaki manufacturing. This is a fire-forged santoku blade of the traditional Echizen Uchi Hamono variety, which originated over 700 years ago in the Fukui region, where artisans make every blade by hand, one by one. The edge is made from incredibly durable Aogami #2 steel, making this a forever knife. However, because it is made from steel, the knife is susceptible to rust and isn’t easy to maintain, so it’s not the best fit for amateurs. However, if you can handle the maintenance, then this knife is a bargain at this price.
・Size: Total Length: 11.81" (30 cm), Blade Length: 6.69" (17 cm)
・Brand: Iwai Hamono (Echizen Forged Blades)
Related article: ▶ Introducing Echizen Uchihamono, Classic Japanese Kitchen Knives
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*These products may not be able to be shipped to certain countries. Please see the retailer's website for more information.
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.