• What is a Japanese fish knife called?

  • JUNE 7, 2023

  • Embrace the precision of Yanagiba, Japan's revered fish knife, as KIREAJI guides you through its historical significance and expert use in seafood preparation.

  • Introduction: The Art of Japanese Seafood Preparation

  • Japan's culinary tradition is renowned for its exquisite seafood dishes, where the essence of fresh fish is celebrated. Central to this culinary art is a specialized tool designed for precision handling of seafood—the Japanese fish knife.

  • The Essence of the Yanagiba

  • Understanding the Name:
    In the realm of seafood preparation, the Japanese fish knife is known as the "Yanagiba," which means "willow blade" or "willow leaf blade." This name reflects the knife's elongated, slender design, reminiscent of the graceful willow leaf, crafted specifically for the fine slicing required in sashimi and sushi making.

  • Features and Functionality:

    • Blade Shape: The Yanagiba boasts a long, single-edged blade with a concave back and a sharp tip, designed for seamless slicing that preserves the integrity of the fish.
    • Blade Length: Available in lengths from 24 to 30 centimeters, the Yanagiba's size can be chosen based on the fish size and the chef's needs.
    • Cutting Technique: Employed with a pulling motion, the Yanagiba ensures uniform, delicate slices, crucial for maintaining the fish's texture and flavor.

  • Caring for Your Yanagiba

  • To maintain the Yanagiba's excellence, adhere to these care practices:

    • Hand Washing:
      Clean your Yanagiba by hand with warm, soapy water, avoiding harsh scrubbing that could damage the blade. Dry thoroughly after washing.
    • Storage:
      Protect the blade by storing it in a knife sheath or block, away from other utensils that could cause damage.
    • Honing and Sharpening:
      Keep the edge sharp with regular honing and seek professional sharpening when necessary to preserve the blade's precision.

  • Conclusion: Mastering Seafood Preparation with the Yanagiba

  • The Yanagiba is not just a knife; it's an extension of the chef's skill in the art of Japanese seafood cuisine. Understanding its design, functionality, and care will enhance your culinary experience, allowing you to savor and share the sublime beauty of Japanese seafood dishes.
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Yanagiba

The KIREAJI Yanagiba collection page highlights the Yanagiba knife, renowned for its long, thin blade designed for precise seafood slicing, particularly sashimi. Originating after traditional Deba and Usuba knives, its design ensures minimal damage to fish cells, preserving freshness and flavor.

Yanagiba
Yanagiba(Sakimaru)

Yanagiba (Sakimaru)

The KIREAJI page dedicated to Yanagiba (Sakimaru) knives introduces this style as increasingly popular, especially for sashimi preparation in the Kanto region. The design, reminiscent of a Japanese sword, adds an aesthetic appeal, especially in visible settings like counters, captivating customer attention.

Yanagiba (Sakimaru)
Yanagiba_Kiristuke

Yanagiba (Kiristuke)

The KIREAJI Yanagiba (Kiritsuke) collection showcases knives that blend Kiritsuke and Yanagiba styles, known for their multi-use functionality in Japanese cuisine. These knives have a distinct, sharp edge and a broader, thicker blade, ensuring precise cuts, especially for sashimi.

Yanagiba (Kiristuke)

The Origin of Craftsmanship

  • The Great Value Found in Small Things

    Even the most ordinary and small things, when deeply appreciated in your own way, can match the significance of the grandest experiences. As traditional Japanese knife makers, we hold each step in the crafting process with great care. Even the smallest task is approached with dedication and patience, for it is this accumulation that leads to a knife capable of breathing life into the hands of its user.

  • As artisans, taking pride in the things we create isn't just about the moments of great achievement. It's about recognizing that even the smallest of tasks carries a deeper meaning that contributes to something much greater. We believe that every single moment, no matter how small, shapes the future.

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.