10 Best Japanese Knives 2026 in the United States

The Global 8 Piece Knife Set is a solid choice for anyone looking to invest in quality Japanese-style kitchen knives. The blades are made from Cromova 18 high carbon stainless steel, a blend designed to keep edges sharp longer while resisting rust and corrosion—a big plus for durability. The set includes a variety of knives suited for different tasks, from a small 3.5" paring knife to an 8.5" bread knife, covering most kitchen needs. The blades have a 15-degree double bevel edge, which means they’re very sharp but still stable enough for everyday use.

The handles are stainless steel with a textured dimple design, providing a comfortable grip that won’t slip easily. Plus, the weight is balanced by sand inside the handle, which helps with control and reduces hand fatigue. These knives should be hand washed only to maintain their quality, as they aren’t dishwasher safe. While stainless steel handles look sleek and are durable, some users might prefer a softer handle material for extra comfort. The included bamboo block is a nice touch for organized and safe storage.

This set suits home cooks who want reliable, sharp blades with a modern look and balanced feel, especially if they value a Japanese style but want easy maintenance and versatility.

The MITSUMOTO SAKARI Japanese Chef's Knife Set offers a carefully handcrafted experience with its traditional Japanese forging method, which is a real plus for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship. The blades are made from high-carbon 9CR18MOV steel with a hardness rating around 58 HRC, meaning they should be sharp and durable, holding their edge well during regular kitchen tasks. The 8-inch blade length is versatile, handling everything from slicing vegetables to cutting meat comfortably. The ultra-thin 2.5mm blade allows for precise cuts, helping maintain the freshness and texture of food.

The rosewood handles are ergonomically designed in an octagonal shape, which helps reduce wrist strain and offers a comfortable grip even during extended use. This balance between blade and handle weight (about 800 grams for the set, or roughly 1.76 pounds total) should feel natural for most users, though those preferring very light knives might find them slightly heavier. The knives have a plain edge, common for chef knives, which is easy to sharpen but not ideal for cutting through very tough or fibrous foods like frozen items.

These knives are not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is necessary to maintain their quality and prevent rusting. Also, while the high carbon steel offers excellent sharpness, it requires more care to avoid staining compared to stainless steel options. This set is an excellent choice for home cooks who want a blend of traditional Japanese style and professional-level performance without being overwhelming. If you value sharpness, precision, and craftsmanship with a comfortable handle, this knife set will serve you well in everyday cooking, provided you maintain them properly by hand washing and occasional sharpening.

The MASAMOTO SW Japanese Gyuto Chef's Knife is a high-quality, all-purpose kitchen knife made in Japan with a blade length of 8.2 inches (210mm), a versatile size suitable for cutting meats, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Its blade is crafted from Swedish stainless steel, known for holding a very sharp edge (HRC 60-61) and good resistance to rust, making it ideal if you want a sharp, durable blade that stays reliable over time.

The knife features a traditional D-shaped wooden handle made from magnolia wood with a ferrule of natural water buffalo horn, offering a lightweight and comfortable grip that professional chefs appreciate for precise cutting. Weighing about 4.9 ounces, it feels well balanced and easy to handle, reducing fatigue during extended use. The edge angle is typical for Japanese knives, allowing for clean, precise cuts but requiring careful maintenance to keep its sharpness. One downside is that it’s not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is necessary to preserve its quality.

This knife suits both serious home cooks and professionals looking for a finely made blade with authentic craftsmanship. If you prefer a heavier or more robust knife, this one leans toward a lighter, more delicate feel. The MASAMOTO SW Gyuto combines traditional Japanese design with modern steel technology, making it an excellent choice if you value sharpness, balance, and elegant handling in your kitchen knife.