10 Best Japanese Chef Knives 2026 in the United States

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.

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 Matsato Chef Knife is a versatile tool designed for both home cooks and professional chefs. Made from high-quality stainless steel, its blade is durable and sharp, promising not to dull or chip easily. The knife features a 6.2-inch blade that is suitable for various kitchen tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meats. Its solid oak handle ensures a firm grip and balanced control, making cutting safer and more comfortable.

However, while the handle's material adds to the knife's quality, it may require extra care to maintain its condition over time since it is not dishwasher-safe. Weighing 6.2 ounces, the knife is lightweight, which can be a plus for prolonged use but might feel less substantial to those who prefer heavier knives. The Matsato Chef Knife's traditional Japanese craftsmanship combined with modern techniques makes it a reliable kitchen tool, also applicable for outdoor activities like camping and BBQs.

With a blend of durability, balance, and versatility, the Matsato Chef Knife is a strong contender in its category, though it requires careful hand washing to maintain its performance and appearance.