10 Best Japanese Chef Knives 2026 in the United States

The Miyabi Birchwood SG2 Japanese Chef's Knife is a high-quality 9-inch kitchen knife crafted in Japan, designed for those who appreciate precision and elegance in cooking. Its blade is made from SG2 micro-carbide powder steel, known for excellent sharpness and edge retention, which means it stays sharp longer and is great for detailed slicing. The blade is thin and straight-edged, honed carefully through a traditional three-step process, giving it a very sharp edge at around 9.5 to 12 degrees—much sharper than typical Western knives. The 100-layer Damascus pattern not only adds beauty but also provides some durability to the blade.

The handle, made of Karelian birchwood, offers a comfortable grip and a natural feel, though wood handles often require careful maintenance to avoid damage from moisture. Weighing about 14.4 ounces, the knife strikes a good balance—not too heavy—making it easier to control for longer cooking sessions without causing fatigue. Being forged means it’s strong and well-constructed, but it’s not dishwasher-safe, so hand washing is necessary to keep it in good condition.

This knife is suitable for chefs or home cooks seeking a precise, sharp blade with a stylish design and comfortable handle. It is an excellent choice for those willing to properly care for a premium wooden handle. However, if low-maintenance or heavier knives are preferred, this product may not be the ideal fit.

The Shun Premier 8-inch Chef's Knife stands out for its versatility in the kitchen, making it a great choice for various tasks like slicing, dicing, and mincing. The blade is crafted from high-quality VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus cladding, which ensures exceptional sharpness with a 16-degree edge, maintaining its edge for a long time. Its distinctive hammered finish not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also helps reduce drag and prevent food from sticking to the blade, enhancing efficiency while cutting.

The knife features a comfortable Pakkawood handle, which provides a secure and ergonomic grip, making it suitable for both left and right-handed users. Weighing 7.5 ounces, the knife is light yet well-balanced, ensuring ease of use during extended cooking sessions. Handmade in Japan, it reflects traditional craftsmanship and comes with a lifetime warranty along with free sharpening and honing services, ensuring long-term reliability.

However, the knife requires careful hand washing and maintenance to preserve its quality, and it is not dishwasher safe. Additionally, while its superior materials and craftsmanship justify the price for many, it might be considered expensive for some. This knife is ideal for serious home cooks and professional chefs who value precision, comfort, and longevity in their kitchen tools.

The SHAN ZU Damascus Knife Set features an 8-inch blade made from high-carbon Japanese 10Cr15Mov steel, known for its excellent hardness (62 HRC), rust resistance, and durability. The blade is forged with 67 layers of Damascus steel, giving it a beautiful natural pattern and added toughness. Unlike many knives that only have a laser-etched design, this knife’s Damascus pattern results from real folding and forging, which is a sign of quality craftsmanship. The plain edge is ultra-sharp, making it well-suited for precise slicing, dicing, and chopping tasks typical in Japanese cooking.

The handle is made from G10 glass fiber, which offers a comfortable, secure grip and is more durable than traditional wood handles. With a weight of 2.31 pounds, the knife balances well in hand, making it efficient for extended use without tiring the wrist. However, it’s not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to maintain the blade’s sharpness and handle integrity.

This set is ideal for home cooks or professional chefs who want a stylish, reliable knife that combines traditional Japanese steel qualities with modern materials for comfort and longevity. The lifetime promise from SHAN ZU adds confidence in its durability and customer support. On the downside, the knife might feel a bit heavy for those used to lighter Japanese knives, and the lack of dishwasher safety means some extra care is needed. Still, this knife stands out for its sharpness, strong construction, and attractive Damascus design, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their kitchen tools.