Japanese kitchen knives have always fascinated us, thanks to their exceptional sharpness, impeccable craftsmanship, and deep rooted tradition. Used by top chefs and skilled home cooks alike, we think these knives are more than just tools, they’re an extension of the chef’s hand, allowing for precise, effortless cutting. But with so many options available out there, how do you choose the best Japanese knife brand?

We’ve gathered the best options to help you choose the one that’s perfect for you.
To guide you through this process,  we’ve tested a wide range of options from top brands like Shun, Global, Kasumi, MAC, and Miyabi, evaluating their craftsmanship, sharpness, and versatility in our test kitchen at Williams Food Equipment. In this guide, we’ll explore the finest Japanese knives, from razor-sharp gyutos to ultra-precise santokus, and help you choose the best one to suit your needs.

Over the years, we’ve come to appreciate the heritage of Japan’s finest knife brands, each with a long history of traditional methods for crafting blades that have been passed down through generations. Skilled artisans have mastered the technique of layering hard steel to create durable & sharp blades, making the practice of cutting a true culinary art.

Japanese chefs dedicate years to perfecting not only their skill in using these knives but also in maintaining, respecting, and caring for them. Did you know that, according to a famous chef, Masaharu Morimoto, “our soul goes into our knives once we start using them”? This sentiment perfectly captures why Japanese knives are considered the heart and soul of Japanese cuisine, and we couldn’t agree more!

While home cooks in the Western world are more accustomed to Western style kitchen knives, known for their robustness, stainless steel symmetrical blades, and riveted handles, many professional chefs, including us, prefer Japanese knives for their unmatched precision and exquisite craftsmanship.

What makes Japanese knives so unique?

They are typically characterized by thinner, lighter blades with sharper angles, crafted from high carbon steel. This combination enables them to deliver outstanding precision, making them a favorite among chefs who value accuracy and finesse.

What are the best Japanese blades for every kitchen task?

• Gyuto (Chef’s Knife) – The Japanese equivalent of a Western chef’s knife, Gyuto is a versatile blade suitable for slicing, chopping, and dicing meat, fish, and vegetables. Its curved edge enables a rocking motion, making it an all-purpose favorite for those who prefer one knife for multiple tasks.
• Santoku (Three Virtues) – Meaning "three virtues" for its ability to handle meat, fish, and vegetables, the Santoku has a shorter, straighter blade with a rounded tip. It is ideal for straight slicing and chopping motions rather than rocking, making it a great all-around knife with an easy learning curve.
• Nakiri (Vegetable Knife) – With a straight, rectangular blade, the Nakiri is designed specifically for cutting vegetables. Its shape allows for clean, precise cuts and efficient chopping, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently prepare vegetables.
• Sujihiki (Slicing Knife) – A long, narrow knife designed for slicing meat and fish in smooth, continuous strokes. Its length helps achieve clean cuts without tearing, making it an essential tool for sashimi preparation, carving roasts, and slicing large cuts of meat.
• Petty (Paring Knife) – The Japanese version of a paring knife, the Petty is small and sharp, perfect for peeling, trimming, and detailed tasks. It provides excellent control and precision, making it essential for delicate kitchen work.

Who Are the Top Japanese Knife Makers?

Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, you might want to try these brands. Here are some of our top picks that stand out for their craftsmanship, sharpness, and versatility:

MAC
Since 1964, MAC has been crafting high-quality Japanese knives that are trusted by professional chefs worldwide. We found that their secret to success lies in exceptional versatility. Whether you're slicing vegetables or filleting fish, MAC knives are designed to handle it all with ease. Their blades are made from premium Molybdenum high carbon steel, offering incredible sharpness and durability, ensuring precision with every cut.

Our MAC Chef's Top Picks: 

1. MAC - Superior Series 6.5" Santoku Knife - SK-65  

We’ve found that this Santoku is a razor-sharp, ultra-precise knife that glides effortlessly through fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. We love how it's unlike heavy European knives: thin, lightweight, and designed for finesse. It allows you to slice with unmatched precision. While testing, we’ve noticed that it’s not for cutting through bones or hard ingredients, but for soft foods, it delivers results that Western knives just can’t match. Well-balanced, easy to handle, and simple to maintain, this is the kind of knife we’ve been reaching for again and again.

2. MAC - 3 PC Mighty Set with 8" Chef, 6.5" Santoku and 3.25" Paring

All the elements we love about MAC knives are packed into this set. After testing it, we can confidently say that if you’re looking for a versatile and high-performing set, the MAC 3 PC Mighty Set is a fantastic choice. With an 8" Chef’s knife, 6.5" Santoku, and a 3.25" Pairing knife, this set covers all your needs for a wide range of kitchen tasks. These MAC knives impressed us with their balance and edge retention, making them a top pick not just for professionals but also for home cooks alike.

MAC - 3 PC Mighty Set with 8" Chef, 6.5" Santoku and 3.25" Paring

MIYABI
Among all the brands we’ve already mentioned, Miyabi certainly has the most peculiar history. Born from a unique blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the innovative German technology of Zwilling J.A. Henckels, this brand combines the best of both worlds.

After Zwilling acquired a Japanese knife factory, Miyabi was born, bringing together cutting-edge German techniques with centuries-old Japanese artistry.
Known for their cold-tempering techniques, Miyabi knives offer superior performance, with Friodur for corrosion resistance and Cryodur for exceptional hardness and long-lasting sharpness. If you're looking for a knife that delivers both beauty and precision, Miyabi is the way to go.

 Our MIYABI’s Chef's Top Picks:

1. Miyabi - Artisan 6000 MCT 7 Piece Knife Block Set - 1019814

Part of the Artisan series, known for their beautiful hammered finish, the Artisan 6000MCT Block Set is perfect for both professional chefs and home cooks looking to elevate their culinary tools with knives that combine art and performance.

We’ve tested this set ourselves, and it truly blends Japanese tradition with modern craftsmanship. Each knife is hand-sharpened, reflecting the legacy of samurai swords from Seki. The hammered finish helps food slide off effortlessly while the D-shaped black linen micarta handles provide a comfortable, ergonomic grip.

This 7-piece set includes all the essentials: paring knife, santoku, chef’s knife, bread knife, honing steel, shears, and a bamboo block. The knives offer impressive performance and value, though the shears and honing steel don’t quite match the premium quality of the blades.

 2. Miyabi -
Birchwood 5000 MCD 2 Piece Starter Knife Set

We tested this set and found it to be an ideal choice for those looking to step up their kitchen game without feeling overwhelmed by too many options. The set includes premium Japanese Knives, including a 5" Paring knife and a 7" Santoku, both crafted with the finest materials for superior performance.

What really sets the Birchwood series apart, besides the incredible sharpness, is the handle material,which is both ergonomic and visually striking. Karelian Birch is a prized material, also used in Fabergé eggs, making this set not only a functional tool but a true work of art in your kitchen.

Whether you're just starting out or upgrading your tools, this set offers the perfect balance of elegance and practicality, handcrafted with the meticulous attention to detail that Miyabi is known for. If you're seeking precision, durability, and a touch of luxury, the Miyabi Birchwood 5000 MCD set is a fantastic choice for any home cook or aspiring chef.

Miyabi -Birchwood 5000 MCD 2 Piece Starter Knife Set

SHUN
We’ve tried many knives, but Shun consistently stands out not only for its sharpness but also for its elegant design. Founded by the Kai Corporation, Shun was created to bring fine Japanese cutlery to the United States and Europe, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. If you’re looking for precision, durability and, why not, a cool design, Shun is a brand worth investing in.

Our SHUN Chef's Top Picks:

1. Shun - 8" Premier Chef's Knife

We personally love this Chef Knife! It offers exceptional sharpness and comfort. In particular, we found that the handle fits perfectly in the hand, offering a secure grip for both small and large hands. Its embossed endcap and brass ring enhance both stability and aesthetics. Ideal for various kitchen tasks, its hammered tsuchime finish helps food release easily.

As proof of how this knife unites traditional and modern design, this knife stands out with its symmetrical handle, crafted to provide comfort for both left and right-handed users, unlike many other traditional Japanese knives.

2. Shun - Sora 8" Chef’s Knife

Staying within the Shun family, we believe also that this 8" Chef’s Knife, part of the impressive Shun Sora line, is a standout. It combines exceptional craftsmanship with versatility, making it perfect for all kinds of food prep. Unlike typical Western chef’s knives, we love how the Sora has a gentler curve, which means more of the blade stays in contact with the cutting board, giving smoother and more efficient slices every time.

3. Shun - 5 Pc Classic Starter Block Set

We believe that, sometimes, a single knife just isn’t enough. That’s right! We also found that a knife set is a great gift for cooking enthusiasts!

That’s why we picked a well curated set that provides versatility and ensures you have the perfect blade for every task.
This Classic Knives set by Shun includes three of the most essential Shun knives, plus the Shun Classic Combination Honing Steel and a beautiful 6-slot Slimline Block. Featuring razor-sharp, well-balanced blades, this set includes essential knives designed for precision and durability. The high quality craftsmanship ensures the blades retain their edge, making them ideal for daily use. While Shun knives come at a higher price, their exceptional performance and timeless design make them a worthwhile investment. Plus, the included honing steel helps maintain sharpness, keeping your knives in top condition for years to come.

KASUMI
Kasumi is a brand we really admire for how it blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern technology. Based in Seki City, the heart of Japan’s knife-making tradition, Kasumi produces knives that are known for their stunning design and outstanding performance. Crafted with VG-10 stainless steel and beautiful Damascus layers, these knives are sharp, durable, and a joy to use. Whether you're a pro or just starting out in the kitchen, Kasumi knives are built to last and elevate your cooking experience. 

Our KASUMI Chef's Top Pick: Kasumi Damascus 7" & 5" Santoku Knife Set:
The Damascus steel blades not only feature a visually striking pattern, but also deliver superior sharpness and durability for precise cutting. The 7" Santoku is perfect for general chopping and slicing, while the 5" Santoku offers more control for detailed tasks.

What stands out for us? The multi-layered Damascus steel ensures an edge that stays sharp longer, while the ergonomic handles provide comfort during extended use. During testing, these knives proved to be versatile and reliable, effortlessly handling a range of ingredients, from vegetables to fish. Their sleek design also adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen, making this set a must-have for anyone serious about cooking.

Kasumi Damascus 7" & 5" Santoku Knife Set

GLOBAL

Moving on to another Top-player, Global knives are among the most recognized and respected brands in both professional and home kitchens. Combining accessible pricing with a timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship,Global offers knives of outstanding quality. Their patented Chromova stainless steel, made from a unique blend of chrome, molybdenum, and vanadium, makes their knives resistant to stains, rust, and chips.

Known for their lightweight and well-balanced feel, Global knives provide a secure grip thanks to their signature dimpled handles. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Global continues to uphold its legacy of producing reliable, high performance knives that are trusted by chefs around the world.

Our GLOBAL Chef's Top Pick: G-Series 8" Chef's Knife
A true classic, but few brands do it as well as Global. This knife stands out for its seamless all-steel construction, eliminating food traps for maximum hygiene and safety. Unlike traditional knives, the hollow handle is filled with sand, creating perfect balance and a smooth, controlled cutting motion.

During testing, its lightweight feel and precise edge made it effortless to handle, excelling in delicate cuts and fine slicing. The streamlined handle is comfortable but can feel slippery when wet, so keeping a firm grip is key. If you want a razor-sharp, perfectly balanced knife that’s both sleek and efficient, this Global classic is a top choice.

Global G-Series 8" Chef's Knife

Which Japanese Knife Brand is Right for You?

When it comes to high quality Japanese knives, the top brands listed above consistently stand out, but what to choose? Let’s compare the main brands: