10 Best Japanese Knives 2025 in the United States

The Matsato Chef Knife stands out as a versatile and well-crafted tool suitable for both home cooks and professional chefs. Its blade is made of high-quality stainless steel, which promises durability and sharpness, reducing the likelihood of dulling or chipping over time. The blade length of 6.2 inches makes it a practical choice for various kitchen tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meats.

The solid oak handle adds to its appeal by offering a firm and comfortable grip, contributing to the knife's balance and control during use. This makes it easier and safer to handle, whether you're in a kitchen at home or outdoors at a BBQ or camping trip. However, it’s important to note that the knife is not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is required to maintain its quality and longevity.

The knife’s weight, at just 6.2 ounces, ensures it is light enough for easy handling, yet substantial enough to provide good balance. Its traditional Japanese craftsmanship combined with modern techniques ensures a high level of performance. The Matsato Chef Knife is highly rated by users, holding a 4.4 out of 5 stars from nearly 1,900 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception. This knife is a reliable, multi-purpose kitchen tool that combines traditional design with modern needs, although it requires careful maintenance due to its non-dishwasher-safe nature.

The KAWAHIRO Japanese Chef Knife is a well-crafted kitchen tool designed for those who appreciate precision and comfort in food preparation. Its 210mm (about 8.25 inches) blade is made from VG10 stainless steel, known for sharpness and durability, layered in a three-steel composite with a black forged finish that adds a unique look and enhances strength. The plain edge is razor-sharp, making slicing through vegetables, meats, and fish smooth and effortless. The handle stands out with a luxurious combination of ebony, turquoise, and premium ruby wood, shaped ergonomically to fit comfortably in your hand, which helps reduce fatigue during longer chopping sessions. The knife weighs about 6.7 ounces, offering a balanced feel that’s neither too heavy nor too light, allowing precise control and easy maneuverability.

It is important to note that the knife is not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to maintain its quality. The elegant wooden gift box adds a special touch, making it a thoughtful present for cooking enthusiasts. This knife suits both professional chefs and home cooks looking for a reliable, sharp, and beautifully made Japanese-style chef’s knife that performs well across a variety of kitchen tasks.

The Global 8" Chef's Knife is a popular choice for both home cooks and professionals who want a reliable and sharp kitchen tool. Its 8-inch blade made from a high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel offers excellent sharpness that lasts longer than many other knives. The blade has a plain edge, which is versatile for most chopping and slicing tasks. Weighing only about 7.8 ounces, this knife feels lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to handle for extended cooking sessions.

The stainless steel handle is unique because it’s molded and dimpled to help provide a secure grip, though some might find it less cozy compared to wooden or softer handles. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is necessary to maintain its quality. The knife’s stamped construction means it’s made from a single sheet of steel, which usually makes it lighter but sometimes less robust than forged knives.

With a lifetime warranty against defects and breakage, this knife is a solid long-term investment for those who want a sharp, durable, and easy-to-maintain chef’s knife with a modern look.