Tojiro DP Gyuto 210mm (VG-10 chef's knife)

A hand-finished VG-10 Japanese chef's knife costs less at the source than mid-tier Western knives at home — and Kappabashi's selection, engraving and advice are the experience itself.

Price: 13200 JPY (Tojiro official Japan pricing; Kappabashi street stores comparable)

Where to buy: Kappabashi Kitchen Town (Tokyo) — Kama-Asa, Tsubaya and Union Commerce offer tax-free, English help and free name engraving; Sakai (Osaka) for artisan single-bevel knives.

Price checked 2026-07-03

• Knives MUST go in checked luggage — never carry-on; shops will wrap them for transport.
• Fully legal to bring home to the US and India as kitchenware, but declare honestly if asked.
• VG-10 and carbon-steel blades need care Western knives don't (no dishwasher; dry carbon steel immediately); many Kappabashi shops sharpen and teach you basics free.