Knowledge
A saya is a wooden sheath that protects your Japanese knife's edge. Learn what they're made from, how to use one properly, and when you need one.
Find the right sharpening angle for your knife. Quick chart for Japanese and Western kitchen knives, plus how to check and hold a consistent angle.
Discover what makes a Japanese bread knife different. Better steel, finer serrations, and cleaner cuts through crusty loaves without crushing.
Learn about every Japanese knife type from gyuto to nakiri. Find out which blade suits your cooking style and kitchen needs.
Discover why carbon steel kitchen knives are prized by chefs. Learn about patina, sharpness, care requirements, and whether carbon steel is right for you.
Discover Japanese paring knives (petty knives): sharper, lighter, and more precise than Western versions. Learn uses, sizes, and how to choose one.
Learn how to sharpen knives with a whetstone. Complete beginner's guide covering soaking, angle, technique, and grit selection for razor-sharp edges.
Discover what a petty knife is and why every kitchen needs one. Learn the difference between petty and paring knives, best uses, and how to choose quality.
The Higonokami is a brass-handled friction folder made by one family since 1896. Learn why this minimalist Japanese pocket knife starts at just £45.
Discover what makes the gyuto knife the most versatile Japanese chef's knife. Learn about sizes, steel types, and how to choose the right one.