If knives sound like a strange souvenirs, think twice.
Japan was the land of warring samurai who, until only 150 years ago, carried swords as weapons.
The know-how has been passed down over generations, and has resulted in Japan producing some of the finest knives.



Today, I’m taking you to Aritsugu, a small store in the bustling Nishiki-ichiba shopping arcade in central Kyoto.
The small store is lined up with a range of knives.
The prices may first seem steep; however, knives can last for many decades and be handed across generations if used and maintained carefully.
At the end of the day, you’ll find that buying a good knife here will save you time and money of buying cheap knives that don’t last, as well as giving you great satisfaction as you easily cut through even the most challenging ingredients.
At Aritsugu, you can even have your name engraved into the knife!



A crash-course on Japanese knives:
1) Santoku: Literally meaning “three virtues”, this knife is the most versatile in the kitchen.
This is used to cut vegetables and meat.
2) Deba: A thick and heavy knife, useful for cutting fish
3) Gyuto: Often called a French knife or a Chef’s knife in the west, this design was imported from Europe in the late 1800s.



If you’re only in Tokyo, you’re still in luck!
Head to the Takashimaya department store in Nihombashi.
There, you will find a comprehensive selection of knives to pick from.
Both in Kyoto and Tokyo, you can enquire knives for the left-handed as well.
However, note that these may take longer to prepare.

More information on Aritsugu
Hours: 9:00am – 5:30pm
Closed: January 1-3
Website: http://www.kyoto-nishiki.or.jp/stores/aritsugu/
Map: