FAQ

• Where is Tsubaya kitchen knife shop located?

  Tsubaya is located at 3-7-2 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0035, Japan in the famous Kappabashi district. The shop is approximately 7 minutes walk from Tawaramachi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line) or 3 minutes from Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express), making it easily accessible for culinary tourism enthusiasts.
• What are Tsubaya's business hours?

  Tsubaya is open from 9:00 AM to 5:45 PM on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM on Sundays and holidays. We recommend checking their official website before visiting for any seasonal hour changes or special closures.
• How can I contact Tsubaya knife shop?

  You can contact Tsubaya through multiple channels: by phone at 03-3845-2005, via email at info@tsubaya.co.jp, or through their official website at tsubaya.jp/en. Their knowledgeable staff are responsive to inquiries about Japanese cutlery options.
• Is Tsubaya easy to find in Kappabashi?

  Yes, Tsubaya is relatively easy to locate within the Kappabashi kitchenware district. Look for a narrow storefront with knife displays in the window. The shop is a well-known landmark in this restaurant supply area, with many visitors using it as a destination point.
• Does Tsubaya have an online store?

  Yes, Tsubaya maintains an official website (tsubaya.jp/en) where customers can browse their knife collection. While they focus primarily on in-store experiences, some specialty Japanese knives can be purchased through their online retail portal.
• When was Tsubaya knife shop founded?

  Tsubaya was originally founded in 1952 as a general cutlery store. The establishment represents over 70 years of Japanese knife craftsmanship tradition and has become an important cultural institution in Tokyo's culinary landscape.
• How did Tsubaya become a specialty knife shop?

  Tsubaya transformed into a dedicated kitchen knife specialty store in 1981 after the owner's travels highlighted the exceptional quality of Japanese knives. This pivotal business decision established their reputation as knife connoisseurs focused on traditional bladesmithing techniques.
• What makes Tsubaya significant in Japanese knife culture?

  Tsubaya holds cultural significance through its long-standing relationships with master craftsmen from renowned knife-making regions like Sakai, Sanjo, Seki, Tanegashima, and Tosa. These connections preserve traditional Japanese knife-making heritage while ensuring authentic craftsmanship for customers.
• What types of knives does Tsubaya sell?

  Tsubaya carries an extensive collection of over 1,000 knives including Japanese-style (wa-bocho), Western-style (yo-bocho), single-edged, double-edged, household, and professional knives. Their comprehensive inventory caters to every level of culinary expertise.
• Does Tsubaya offer knife sharpening services?

  Yes, Tsubaya provides professional knife sharpening services as part of their commitment to knife aftercare. They emphasize proper maintenance to extend the lifespan of premium Japanese cutlery, offering ongoing support for knife owners to maintain optimal cutting performance.
• Can I find specialty Japanese knives at Tsubaya?

  Absolutely. Tsubaya specializes in traditional Japanese knife styles like yanagiba (sashimi knives), deba (fish filleting knives), usuba (vegetable knives), and nakiri (vegetable cleavers). They source authentic pieces from Japan's most respected bladesmithing regions.
• Are there knives for home cooks or just professional chefs?

  Tsubaya caters to all skill levels, from home cooking enthusiasts to professional chefs. They offer various price points and knife styles appropriate for casual home use, while also carrying premium professional-grade Japanese cutlery for serious culinary professionals.
• Does Tsubaya sell knife accessories?

  Yes, alongside their knife collection, Tsubaya offers complementary cutlery accessories including wooden saya (knife sheaths), cutting boards, knife stands, sharpening stones, and maintenance supplies. These products support proper knife care and storage practices.
• Can I handle the knives before purchasing at Tsubaya?

  Yes, one of Tsubaya's distinguishing features is that knives are displayed openly on walls and shelves, not behind glass cases. This intentional layout encourages customers to handle and feel the knives directly, which aligns with their philosophy that knife selection is highly personal.
• Is there English-speaking staff available at Tsubaya?

  Yes, Tsubaya has English-speaking staff available to assist international visitors. Their knowledgeable team can provide guidance on the extensive variety of knives, explain differences between styles, and help customers find the perfect knife for their specific needs.
• How many customers can Tsubaya accommodate at once?

  Tsubaya is a small, narrow shop that comfortably holds only 3-6 customers at a time. The intimate space creates a focused shopping environment but may require patience during busy periods. This limited capacity allows for personalized knife consultation experiences.
• What makes shopping at Tsubaya different from other knife stores?

  Tsubaya offers a hands-on, tactile shopping experience unlike many competitor stores. Their philosophy emphasizes that a kitchen knife is a crucial cooking tool that should be chosen based on feel and balance rather than appearance alone, creating a uniquely interactive retail environment.
• What payment methods does Tsubaya accept?

  Tsubaya accepts major credit cards and cash payments. International visitors should note that while card payments are convenient, some special orders or custom services might require traditional payment methods. Currency exchange services are not available in-store.
• Does Tsubaya ship internationally?

  Yes, Tsubaya offers international shipping options for their specialty Japanese knives. Shipping costs vary by destination, and customers should be aware of their own country's customs regulations regarding the importation of kitchen knives before placing orders.
• Are Tsubaya's prices competitive?

  Tsubaya's pricing reflects the premium quality of authentic Japanese craftsmanship. While some reviews note that prices can be somewhat higher than average, the exceptional quality, expert guidance, and ongoing service make it a worthwhile investment for serious culinary enthusiasts.
• What makes Japanese knives from Tsubaya special?

  Japanese knives from Tsubaya feature exceptional craftsmanship from traditional bladesmiths. These artisans use techniques passed down through generations, often employing specialized steel formulations and hand-finishing methods that result in superior edge retention and cutting performance.
• Does Tsubaya offer custom knife options?

  Yes, through their connections with master craftsmen, Tsubaya can facilitate custom knife orders for serious collectors or professionals. These bespoke Japanese knives can be tailored to specific preferences in terms of blade style, handle material, and balance point.
• What knife care advice does Tsubaya provide?

  Tsubaya emphasizes proper traditional knife maintenance techniques including correct sharpening procedures, appropriate cutting surfaces, hand-washing protocols, and proper storage. Their staff provides guidance on extending the lifespan of premium Japanese cutlery through proper care.
• Is Tsubaya suitable for tourists interested in Japanese culture?

  Absolutely. Tsubaya represents an authentic piece of Japanese culinary heritage and provides cultural insights into traditional craftsmanship. Many tourists visit not only to purchase knives but to experience this aspect of Japanese culture firsthand in the historic Kappabashi district.
• What is the most popular knife style at Tsubaya?

  The gyuto (chef's knife) is consistently among Tsubaya's most popular offerings. This versatile Japanese interpretation of the Western chef's knife combines traditional Japanese steel quality with a shape suitable for various cutting techniques, making it accessible to international customers.