• Trends in Japanese Kitchen Knife Exports

  • JUNE 17, 2023

  • Growing Popularity Abroad

  • The Japanese kitchen knife industry has witnessed a steady rise in its global presence, particularly marked by an upswing in export values. Despite facing challenges like the 2008 Lehman shock, the resilience and excellence of Japanese kitchen knives have propelled a consistent growth in international demand.

  • Significant Growth in Export Value

    • From Recovery to Boom: 
      Beginning its recovery in the early 2000s, the export value of Japanese kitchen knives has seen a substantial increase. From 2.23686 billion yen in the fiscal year 2001, it soared to 7.64883 billion yen by 2015, showcasing the growing global appreciation for these culinary tools.
    • Recent Uptrend: 
      The momentum has continued with "Japanese blades" exports climbing notably around 2013, reaching approximately 34.1 billion yen in 2022. This upward trajectory underscores the expanding international market for Japanese kitchen knives.

  • Primary Export Destinations

    • Global Reach: 
      The distribution of exports in 2015 highlighted North America (44.6%), Western Europe (25.3%), and Asia (15.7%) as the leading markets, collectively accounting for 85% of total exports. This diverse geographical spread reflects the widespread acclaim for Japanese kitchen knives.
    • Expanding Horizons: 
      With significant shares also in the Middle East, Oceania, Central and Eastern Europe/Russia, Central and South America, and Africa, it's clear that Japanese kitchen knives have carved a niche in various culinary cultures around the world.

  • Conclusion: A Flourishing Global Presence

  • The data paints a clear picture: Japanese kitchen knives are not just a domestic treasure but a globally sought-after commodity. Their increasing popularity and demand across continents highlight the universal appeal of Japanese craftsmanship, precision, and quality. As exports continue to grow, it reaffirms the esteemed position of Japanese kitchen knives in kitchens worldwide.

Why Japanese Knives Excel Globally

We aim to support our customers' passion for cooking and provide them with a more fulfilling culinary experience by introducing why Japanese knives are considered the best in the world. Simultaneously, we seek to honor the craftsmanship and tradition of Japanese artisans by showcasing the reasons behind the global acclaim of Japanese knives.

Why Japanese Knives Excel Globally

The Origin of Craftsmanship

  • The Art of Relaxation – Embracing Ease with Your Knife

    When you hold a knife, are you gripping it too tightly? No matter how exceptional a tool may be, if your hand is tense, you can't unlock its full potential.

  • A knife doesn’t respond to force; it thrives on finesse. Cutting is not about brute strength but about trusting the blade’s sharpness and weight, allowing it to guide your movements. It's a dialogue between you and the ingredient in front of you.

  • For chefs, cutting is more than preparation; it’s a ritual. A relaxed mind and steady hand breathe new life into the ingredients. Trust the knife, release your grip, and focus on the moment – this is the first step to transforming cooking into art.

  • As craftsmen, we too approach knife-making with a calm, focused spirit, pouring our hearts into each blade. We create knives that are meant to truly shine in the hands of skilled chefs, amplifying their artistry.

  • Next time you pick up a knife, loosen your grip and let it guide you. You’ll discover a seamless connection, and with it, smoother, more elegant cuts.

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. Exceptional Japanese Knives

    Our knives, crafted by Sakai City's master artisans, combine traditional techniques with carefully selected materials, delivering unrivaled sharpness and durability.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    We offer free Honbazuke sharpening performed by skilled craftsmen, ensuring that you experience the authentic sharpness of a true Sakai knife.

  • 3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Each knife comes with a free Saya (protective sheath) for added durability. We also offer after-sales service through a trusted Sakai City workshop to maintain your knife's performance.