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Japanese knives stand out from their Western counterparts not only for their traditional craftsmanship and culinary heritage, but also for the level of care and delicate sharpening techniques they require.

How to use a Japanese knife

Caring for your Japanese knife requires a consistent routine, and with proper care, your knife can outlast its maker.

The Japanese Cutting Technique

Use the entire length of the blade, not just the center or tip
Let the blade do the work. Japanese knives are designed to be sharp and efficient
Don’t force or press hard. Excessive pressure damages the edge and the ingredients

Avoid

Twisting or prying — might result in chipping
Avoid tossing it into a drawer without protection
Always clean and dry your knife thoroughly before storing
Avoid using knife blocks — this will dull the edge and produce mould
Entire length
Entire length
Sharp and efficient
Sharp and efficient
Don’t press hard
Don’t press hard

How to take care of your knife

Caring for your Japanese knife requires a consistent routine, and with proper care, your knife can outlast its maker.

Care steps

Washing — Rinse with a soft sponge and dishwashing soap
Drying — wipe dry after washing
Oiling — Apply non-acidic edible oil on a cloth and coat the knife after drying

Avoid

Machine washing — will damage the handle & blade
Not rinsing after acidic foods — leads to oxidation and rust
Storing without thorough cleaning and drying
Leaving the knife in moist places after use
Washing
Washing
Drying
Drying
Oiling
Oiling

How to store your knife

Proper storage is essential to keep your Japanese knife sharp, safe, and rust-free.

Storing recommendations

Japanese Wooden Sheaths — ideal for drawers, use the sheath designed for your knife
Knife Rolls — each knife in its pocket, great for traveling

Avoid

Storing without cleaning and drying
Hitting hard items (bones, frozen food)
Using a knife not designated for the purpose
Glass or ceramic cutting boards — use wood or soft plastic
Wooden Sheaths
Wooden Sheaths
Knife Rolls
包丁ケース
Knife Case
Knife Case

How to de-rust your knife

Caring for your Japanese knife requires a consistent routine, and with proper care, your knife can outlast its maker.

Basic De-rusting Tips

Follow the grain of the metal when de-rusting
Use a gentle abrasive or rust remover designed for knives
Rinse and dry thoroughly after treatment
Follow up with oiling to protect against future rust

Avoid

Harsh chemicals or steel wool — can scratch or weaken the blade
Leaving the knife wet after de-rusting
Forgetting to oil the blade after rust removal

How to sharpen your knife

A sharp knife is safer, easier to use, and makes cooking more enjoyable. Sharpening requires a lot of practice, but it’s a skill anyone can learn.

Basic Sharpening Tips

Hold your knife at the right angle for effective sharpening
Use smooth, controlled strokes on both sides of the blade
Keep the sharpening stone wet for best results
Finish with a fine stone or strop to polish the edge
For single-bevel knives, follow specific instructions
Maintain consistent pressure
Oil carbon steel after sharpening

Avoid

Excessive pressure — can damage the blade
Skipping sides — sharpen evenly
Sharpening a dirty or rusty blade
Wet Stone
Wet Stone
Right Angle
Right Angle
Oil After Use
Oil After Use
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Still not sure? Choose Musashi Membership. Re-sharpen, re-handle, and de-rust your knife by the masters who made it, plus enjoy priority service and tailored rewards.

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