FAQ

• What is Aritsugu Nishiki Market and why is it famous?

  Aritsugu is Kyoto's premier knife shop established in 1560, making it one of Japan's oldest continuously operating cutlery businesses. Originally sword makers for the Imperial House, they transitioned to crafting exceptional Japanese kitchen knives after the Meiji Restoration, maintaining centuries of traditional blade craftsmanship.
• Where exactly is Aritsugu located in Kyoto?

  Aritsugu is located in the heart of Nishiki Market, Kyoto's famous food market often called "Kyoto's Kitchen." You'll find this historic Japanese knife shop midway through the covered shopping arcade, identifiable by its traditional façade and the family crest displayed prominently above the entrance.
• What types of Japanese knives can I find at Aritsugu Kyoto?

  Aritsugu offers a comprehensive selection of traditional Japanese knife styles including usuba (vegetable knives), deba (fish knives), yanagiba (sashimi knives), and santoku (all-purpose knives). They also craft specialized Kyoto-style kitchen tools that reflect regional culinary traditions.
• What price range should I expect at Aritsugu Kyoto?

  Aritsugu's knives range from ¥10,000 ($70) for basic models to ¥100,000+ ($700+) for premium artisanal pieces. Most visitors find excellent quality in the ¥20,000-40,000 ($140-280) range, representing a worthwhile investment in authentic Japanese knife craftsmanship with proper care and maintenance.
• What payment methods does Aritsugu accept?

  Aritsugu accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and JCB, as well as cash payments in Japanese yen. Foreign tourists making purchases over ¥5,000 can receive tax-free shopping benefits by presenting their passport, making high-quality Japanese knives slightly more affordable.
• What are the most popular knife types purchased at Aritsugu Kyoto?

  The most frequently purchased knives at Aritsugu include the versatile santoku (three-purpose knife), gyuto (chef's knife), and petty (utility knife). These practical Japanese knife styles perform exceptionally well for everyday cooking tasks while being easier to maintain than specialized single-bevel traditional blades.
• How do I transport Aritsugu knives back home safely?

  To transport your knife safely, Aritsugu provides protective wooden sheaths (saya) for an additional ¥3,000-5,000. Always pack purchased knives in checked luggage, not carry-on, and research your country's customs regulations regarding importing knives to ensure a smooth Japanese knife transportation experience.
• What maintenance is required for Aritsugu knives?

  Aritsugu knives require proper care: hand washing only (never dishwashers), immediate drying after use, and regular sharpening with whetstones. Carbon steel blades need particular attention to prevent rust. The shop sells maintenance supplies and provides care instructions for their traditional Japanese knife products.
• What are the best times to visit Aritsugu to avoid crowds?

  Visit Aritsugu when they first open (9:30-10:30am) or during weekday afternoons to avoid crowds. Nishiki Market becomes extremely busy midday and on weekends, so early visits ensure more personalized attention from staff when selecting your Japanese knife.
• What other culinary shops should I visit near Aritsugu in Nishiki Market?

  While visiting Aritsugu, explore nearby shops selling traditional Kyoto kitchen tools like bamboo whisks for matcha, wooden rice paddles, and ceramic serving vessels. These complementary culinary items pair beautifully with Japanese knives and represent Kyoto's broader food preparation heritage.