Alongside matcha, sake, and ceramics, Japanese knives have become one of the Japanese craft objects increasingly admired overseas. It is no longer unusual to see visitors to Japan purchasing knives at department stores or specialty shops and bringing them home as lasting tools of daily life.

One of the brands at the center of this global interest is Shun, the premium knife brand by KAI. Now available in more than 60 countries, with approximately 90% of its sales coming from overseas markets, Shun has grown into a brand that communicates Japanese blade-making culture to the world.

KAI has now expanded the lineup of Shun DualCore, the highest-grade series within the Shun brand, while also introducing genuine leather knife cases. Together, these releases reflect a Japanese sense of craftsmanship and beauty in tools that goes far beyond ordinary kitchenware.

Why the World Is Drawn to Japanese Knives

The appeal of Japanese knives overseas is not limited to sharpness alone.

It lies in the blade-making techniques passed down around Seki City in Gifu Prefecture, the precision of the finishing, and the philosophy of creating tools designed to be used over many years.

Overseas, the term “Japanese knife” itself has come to signify quality. Today, Japanese knives are highly valued not only by professional chefs, but also by passionate home cooks.

Courtesy of KAI

Shun continues to be loved in kitchens around the world as one of the brands representing this culture of Japanese knives.

Shun DualCore, the Brand’s Highest-Grade Series

The newly expanded Shun DualCore collection sits at the pinnacle of the Shun lineup.

Its defining feature is a distinctive blade structure that combines different types of steel. By layering materials with different properties, the knives achieve both exceptional sharpness and durability. The herringbone pattern that appears across the blade also brings together function and ornament in a single visual language.

Shun DualCore Master Utility 165mm Price: ¥35,200 (tax included)
Courtesy of KAI

Although designed as a tool for cooking, its presence is closer to that of a crafted object. This is one of the reasons Shun has earned recognition worldwide.

An Octagonal Handle with a Japanese Sensibility

The blade is only part of the story.

DualCore also features an octagonal handle inspired by traditional Japanese knives. Its shape sits naturally in the hand, offering ease of use while also conveying a quiet, distinctly Japanese beauty.

Shun DualCore Paring 100mm Price: ¥28,600 (tax included)
Courtesy of KAI

The ability to bring together functionality and aesthetic refinement is a value shared across Japanese crafts and architecture.

The Idea of Carrying a Knife

Another notable release is the new genuine leather knife case.

In Japan, home cooks rarely carry their knives outside the kitchen. Overseas, however, many chefs, culinary students, and food creators have a culture of traveling with their own knives.

Left: Shun Leather Sheath S — ¥6,600 (tax included)
Right: Shun Leather Sheath L — ¥8,800 (tax included)
*Knives sold separately
Courtesy of KAI

Against this backdrop, demand for cases that safely store and transport knives is naturally high.

From Tool to Cherished Object

The newly released leather sheaths and roll case are more than protective accessories.

They are designed to help knives be used over the long term, while also enhancing the pleasure of ownership. Like the knives themselves, leather develops character over time, becoming more personal with use.

Shun Leather Roll Case Price: ¥27,500 (tax included)
*Knives sold separately
Courtesy of KAI

o regard cooking tools not as consumables, but as cherished objects to live with, is a mindset that resonates with contemporary ideas of luxury.

Japanese Blade Culture Goes Global

Just as matcha and sake have become entry points into Japanese culture, knives too have become a way for people overseas to discover Japan.

Shun DualCore and the new genuine leather knife cases connect the technical precision and beauty of Japanese blade-making with contemporary lifestyles. They are tools for cooking, but also products that carry culture.

Loved around the world, Japanese knives have moved beyond being tools for cutting. They now embody Japanese craftsmanship itself.






Contact:
KAI Corporation Customer Service
TEL: +81 120-016-410
(Toll-free within Japan)