10 Best Japanese Chef Knives 2026 in the United States

The Shun Premier 6 Piece Block Set is a well-crafted collection of Japanese-style kitchen knives designed for both home cooks and enthusiasts who appreciate quality tools. The blades are made from VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus cladding, known for their sharpness and durability. Each blade has a plain edge sharpened to a 16-degree angle, providing precise and clean cuts. The set includes an 8-inch chef’s knife, 5.5-inch Nakiri (vegetable knife), 6.5-inch utility knife, and 4-inch paring knife, covering a wide range of kitchen tasks. The hammered tsuchime finish on the blades reduces food sticking and adds a beautiful touch.

Handles are made from Pakkawood, an engineered wood that offers a comfortable, secure grip and good balance, making the knives easy to control during use. The set also comes with a honing steel to maintain sharpness and an angled knife block for safe and convenient storage. These knives are not dishwasher safe, so they require hand washing and proper care to keep them in top condition. Additionally, the set weighs nearly 11 pounds with the block, which might feel a bit heavy for some users.

For those looking for a high-quality Japanese knife set that combines traditional craftsmanship with practical design, this set delivers excellent performance and style.

The Shun Classic 10" Chef's Knife is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality Japanese chef knife that handles a variety of kitchen tasks with ease. Its 10-inch blade is made from VG-MAX steel, known for maintaining a very sharp edge thanks to its 16-degree angle and 68 layers of Damascus cladding, which also gives it a beautiful, durable finish. The plain edge is versatile and ideal for slicing and dicing most ingredients smoothly.

The knife features a D-shaped handle made from Pakkawood, a sturdy and comfortable material that offers a secure grip for both left and right-handed users. Weighing about 12 ounces, it feels balanced in hand, making control and precision easier during use. Handcrafted in Japan, it reflects traditional craftsmanship and quality, supported by a lifetime warranty and free sharpening services.

It is not dishwasher safe, so it must be hand washed to keep it in top condition. Although priced higher than basic knives, its durability, sharpness, and elegant design make it a valuable tool for serious home cooks or those wanting to step up their kitchen skills.

The MITSUMOTO SAKARI Japanese Chef's Knife Set is a professional-grade collection of four hand-forged knives that blend traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern materials. The blades are made from high-carbon 9CR18MOV steel, known for its durability and sharpness, and treated to achieve a hardness of 58±2 HRC. This makes the knives excellent for precise cutting tasks, keeping fruits, vegetables, and meats in optimal condition. The blade length of 8 inches and a thin 2.5mm edge enhance its cutting efficiency.

The rosewood handles are ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip, reducing wrist strain and allowing for better control and flexibility while cutting. The knife set comes in a stylish sandalwood box, making it a great gift option for culinary enthusiasts or professional chefs. However, at 1.76 pounds, some users might find the knives a bit heavy, which could impact prolonged use. Additionally, these knives are not dishwasher safe, requiring careful hand washing and maintenance to preserve their quality.

This knife set is ideal for those who appreciate high-quality, aesthetically pleasing kitchen tools and are willing to invest time in maintaining their knives.