The best knife shops in Tokyo in 2026 are Kama-Asa, Kamata Hakensha and Tsubaya on Kappabashi kitchenware street, Nihonbashi Kiya, a cutler founded in 1792, and Tsukiji Masamoto and Tsukiji Aritsugu near the old fish market. Most will engrave your name in Japanese and explain how to care for carbon-steel blades.
Japanese chef's knives are among the world's best, and Tokyo's specialist shops can help you choose between a gyuto (chef's knife), santoku and single-bevel blades. Ask about steel (carbon or stainless) and maintenance; carbon steel is sharper but rusts if neglected.
A Kappabashi cutler since 1908.
Kama-Asa is a long-established kitchen tool shop on Kappabashi with a wide range of knives and cast-iron cookware, and staff who explain the options in English.
Engraving is available.
Good to know: Ask for a demonstration.
2-24-1 Matsugaya, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0036
A Kappabashi knife specialist since 1923.
Kamata Hakensha sells knives from many makers and offers sharpening and engraving.
It is popular with professional chefs.
Good to know: Engraving is usually done on the spot.
2-12-6 Matsugaya, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0036
Knives for professional kitchens.
Tsubaya is a Kappabashi knife shop focused on blades for professional chefs, with a large display of styles and prices.
Staff can recommend the right knife for your cooking.
Good to know: Compare a few styles in hand.
3-7-2 Nishiasakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0035
A cutler founded in 1792.
Kiya has made and sold blades in Nihonbashi since 1792, from kitchen knives to scissors and grooming tools.
Its shop is in COREDO Muromachi.
Good to know: Look at its scissors and nail clippers for gifts.
COREDO Muromachi 1F, 2-2-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0022
A famous maker of sushi chefs' knives.
Tsukiji Masamoto is a renowned maker of traditional single-bevel knives used by sushi chefs.
Its shop is near the Tsukiji Outer Market.
Good to know: Combine with breakfast at the outer market.
4-9-9 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045
A branch of the famous Kyoto knife maker.
Aritsugu, a centuries-old Kyoto knife maker, runs a small shop in the Tsukiji Outer Market selling its hand-forged knives.
Engraving is offered.
Good to know: Visit early; the outer market is busiest late morning.
4-13-6 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045
Kappabashi in Asakusa has several specialist shops; Nihonbashi and Tsukiji have historic cutlers.
Not in your carry-on. Pack them in checked luggage.
Many do, often free, with your name in katakana or kanji; allow time.
A stainless gyuto (chef's knife) or santoku of about 18 to 21 cm is versatile and easy to maintain.
Many close on Sundays and holidays; go on a weekday.