Hi,
I'm heading to Japan next year
I want to buy some good quality knives. Does anyone know any good knife makers or stores?
I wasn't sure if I have to order them or can I just buy on the spot.
Mainly based in Tokyo.
anyone know?
Thanks
Kitchen Knives from Japan
ynot1985 on 26/11/2014 - 15:41
Comments
Kyocera ceramic?
Depends what you mostly chop and cut.
Prefer German Wushtof but Japan's 'Global' brand is alright too.
@grillman- thanks, will definitely check that place out
@adamren- I have tried kyocera ceramic, way too light for me. I light my knives to have a bit of weight to it. I already have a set of western knives, looking for Jap ones. Everyone raves about Global but I have seen a few images online where it snaps in two, so I want something that is less mass produced.
At a minimum you'd probably want to be looking at Shun knives (even though these are comparatively 'mass produced' compared to the master-crafted knives you could find in Japan). Look for what we call in the west 'damascus steel' knives - i.e. layers of steel folded and beaten to create the blade, thereby causing a distinct wavy pattern on the blade: https://www.google.com.au/search?q=global+knives&source=lnms…
perhaps have a look thru here as well for more ideas, and names of master blade craftsmen http://www.bladeforums.com/
Also, never go for those 'block sets' - focus on two knives that will meet almost every need (I use a 10" Chefs knife and a 5" paring knife), and buy the best you can. Looked after well, there is no reason your grandkids won't be using them in future.
I went to a place called Union Commerce Co. (weird name, I know), which came highly recommended. You can definitely buy on the spot…they have a MASSIVE selection.
It's on Kappabashi Dori Ave.
Kappabashi, also known as kitchen town has all the supplies you need!
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3020.html