Japan Knife TOKU | Where to Buy Knives: Differences Among Stores and How to Choose Wisely [2026]

Hello, I’m Okudaira, owner of "Houchou no Sakai Toku."
In Asakusa, we sell, resharpen, and offer sharpening classes for knives crafted by artisans nationwide, including those from Osaka and Sakai.
In this article, I will explain "where is the best place to buy a knife?" along with the characteristics of each type of retailer. 

Conclusion: Choose where to buy a knife based on "how you'll use it."

To put it simply, here's our recommended way to choose a knife:

•           If "it just needs to cut" → 100-yen stores, mass retailers
•           For good value and everyday use → Home centers, mass retailers
•           If you want to choose with confidence → Department stores
•           If you want to use it for a long time or choose carefully → Specialty knife stores

Now, let's look at each in detail. 

100-yen store knives | For those who want to buy knives as cheaply as possible

 Many people probably have the impression that 100-yen store knives "quickly become dull."
This is because the steel is soft, and the blade edge tends to round easily.
Therefore, their sharpness retention is not high.
However, they cut well when new or right after resharpening, so

•           For those who don't cook much
•           For temporary use, such as camping or BBQ

they are perfectly practical.

Home center and mass retailer knives | Balanced for home use

In this category, you'll often find knives made with molybdenum steel or AUS-type stainless steel.
Their features are as follows:

•           Rust-resistant
•           Relatively inexpensive (around ¥10,000 or less)
•           Easy for general households to use

They retain sharpness longer than 100-yen knives and are sufficient for everyday use.
However,

•           Some may not become "dramatically sharper" even after sharpening
•           There can be variations in quality between products

These points require attention.

>Suited for

•           Households that cook a few times a week
•           People living alone buying their first knife
•           Those who plan to replace their knife every few years

Department store knives | For reliability and brand preference

 Knives sold at department stores are primarily from

•           Famous manufacturers
•           Established brands

The biggest advantage is that you can "choose with confidence."
They generally offer products of a certain standard or higher, making it difficult to make a bad choice.

>Suited for

•           Gifts
•           Those who prioritize brand or reliability

Specialty knife store knives | Ideal for those who want to use them for a long time

While it's often thought that specialty stores are "for professionals," that's not actually the case.
At specialty knife stores, you can expect:

•           A wide range of products, from household to professional use
•           Suggestions tailored to your intended use
•           After-sales support such as resharpening and repairs

The biggest difference is "after the purchase."

•           Regular resharpening
•           Handle replacement
•           Warp correction

By doing these, you can continue to use your knife for a long time.

>Suited for
 
•           Those who want to use a knife for a long time
•           Those who want to choose a knife that suits them
•           Those who want to entrust maintenance to the store

About Houchou no Sakai Toku (Asakusa)

Houchou no Sakai Toku is a specialty knife store in Asakusa.

•           Wide range of products, from household to professional use
•           Careful advice when purchasing
•           Resharpening, repair, and handle replacement services available
•           Sharpening classes and experiences also offered

We prioritize supporting customers to use their knives for a long time, rather than just "selling and being done with it." 

Summary | When in doubt, "choose a slightly higher option"

If you are dissatisfied with your current knife, it's worth trying one a step above.
With knives,

•           Sharpness
•           Weight
•           Fit

can significantly change the comfort of cooking.
Choosing a knife that suits you will reduce cooking stress and enhance enjoyment.

Store Information (Asakusa)

Houchou no Sakai Toku Asakusa Store (Opening April 2025)
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: NW Building 6F, 1-11-4 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo

•           1-minute walk from Asakusa Station North Exit on the Tobu Skytree Line
•           4-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line

※Please take the elevator to the 6th floor
※"Just looking or consulting" is also welcome 

SNS / Contact Us

We share tips on how to choose and sharpen knives.

•           YouTube
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You can also contact us via LINE.
　　@491zaxhd