10 Best Japanese Knife Sets 2025 in the United States

The Shun Premier 8 Piece Professional Block Set is a carefully crafted Japanese knife set that excels in both aesthetics and performance. With blades made from VG-MAX steel and 68 layers of Damascus cladding, the knives offer exceptional sharpness and durability. The distinctive hammered finish not only looks beautiful but also helps to reduce drag, making food preparation smoother and easier. This set includes a variety of essential knives, such as a chef's knife, paring knife, and slicing knife, catering to a wide range of culinary tasks; perfect for both home cooks and professional chefs alike.

One of the standout features of this set is the comfortable Pakkawood handles, which provide a secure grip for all users, whether left or right-handed. This focus on comfort ensures better control during cutting and slicing. Furthermore, the set comes with a honing steel and a stylish bamboo knife block, keeping your kitchen organized and the knives readily accessible.

The maintenance requirements include hand washing and regular honing to keep the knives in top condition, which might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the price point may be on the higher side, making it a significant investment for some buyers. The weight of the set, at 11.85 pounds, can be a bit heavy for users who prefer lighter options.

The Global 20 Piece Knife Block Set offers a comprehensive assortment of high-quality knives, making it a suitable choice for both professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts. The blades are crafted from Cromova 18 high carbon stainless steel, which includes chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium. This composition ensures the knives are durable and capable of maintaining a sharp edge for longer periods. Ice-tempered and possessing a Rockwell Hardness of 58, these blades are designed to deliver exceptional cutting performance with a 15-degree double bevel edge for superior sharpness and edge stability.

The set includes a variety of knives to cover different culinary tasks, from paring and boning to carving and bread slicing, along with specialized knives like the Nakiri and Santoku. Additionally, the set features six fine edge steak knives, kitchen shears, and a ceramic sharpening rod, all housed in an aesthetically pleasing 19-slot ash wood knife block with a dark walnut finish. The handles are made from stainless steel with a signature dimple pattern, providing a comfortable, slip-resistant grip and achieving the perfect balance via sand-filled construction.

However, the knives require hand washing and careful maintenance to preserve their quality, which might be a drawback for users accustomed to dishwasher-safe kitchenware. At 14.7 pounds, the set is relatively heavy, making it less portable. The Global 20 Piece Knife Block Set stands out for its superior material quality and comprehensive range of knives, but users should be prepared for the upkeep it demands.

The Miyabi Birchwood GS2 7-pc Knife Block Set is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality Japanese knives. With its authentic thin blade profile and hand-honed edges, this set delivers precise cutting performance. The blades are made of high carbon stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to rust, which is a big plus for anyone who values longevity in their kitchen tools. The attractive 101-layer Damascus design not only looks stunning but also contributes to the knives' strength and sharpness.

One of the main strengths of this set is the variety it offers. With a parer, santoku, chef's knife, bread knife, and even stainless steel shears, you'll have a comprehensive selection for all your kitchen needs. The traditional Karelian Birch handle is not just beautiful; it also provides a comfortable grip, making it easier to control the knives while cutting.

Potential buyers should consider the maintenance required. These knives need to be hand-washed and dried immediately to maintain their beauty and function. Additionally, the sharpness of the blades requires careful handling, as they can be easily damaged if care is not taken. The higher price point may also make it less accessible for casual cooks or those on a budget.