Best Cutting Boards For Japanese Knives (2024 Updated)

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If you're looking for the best cutting boards for Japanese knives, there are a few key points you should keep in mind. Japanese knives are known for their sharpness and precision, so it's important to choose a cutting board that can accommodate these features while also protecting the knife's blade.

First and foremost, you'll want to look for a cutting board that is made of a material that won't dull your knife's edge. Some good options include wood, bamboo, and plastic, although each has its own pros and cons.

Secondly, consider the size of the cutting board. You'll want one that is large enough to comfortably accommodate your knife, but not so large that it's difficult to store or maneuver.

Thirdly, think about the board's durability. You'll want a cutting board that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use, without warping or cracking over time.

Fourthly, consider the board's maintenance requirements. Some cutting boards require regular oiling or conditioning to keep them in good condition, while others can be simply washed with soap and water.

Finally, think about any additional features that might be important to you, such as non-slip grips or built-in juice grooves.

By considering these key points, you'll be able to find a cutting board that not only complements your Japanese knife, but also helps you achieve the precision and accuracy you need for your culinary creations.

10 Best Cutting Boards For Japanese Knives

1. Shun Cutlery Hinoki Cutting Board, 15.75" X 10.75", Preserves Knife Edges, Authentic Japanese Kitchen Board.

The Shun Cutlery Medium Hinoki Cutting Board is a high-quality and authentic Japanese kitchen cutting board that is perfect for all your Shun knives. Measuring at 15.75 inches by 10.75 inches, this medium-sized cutting board is compact and easy to store, making it ideal for general-purpose tasks in the kitchen.

Crafted from hinoki, a type of Japanese cypress known for its natural beauty and fragrance, the Shun Medium Hinoki Cutting Board is Forest Stewardship Council certified for sustainable forest management practices. The wood's medium-soft texture "gives" as you cut, which helps to preserve the edges of your knives, making it an excellent choice for use with your Shun knives.

To ensure that the cutting board stays in top condition, it is recommended to wet it before each use to resist staining. After use, wash the board with mild detergent, towel dry, then air dry away from direct sunlight. In case of stains, rub a cut lemon across the stain to clean it.

The Shun Cutlery Medium Hinoki Cutting Board is a perfect complement to Shun knives, which are handcrafted by highly skilled artisans using traditional Japanese techniques. These knives are renowned for their unparalleled quality and beauty, making them the preferred choice of many professional chefs.

In summary, the Shun Cutlery Medium Hinoki Cutting Board is a top-quality and authentic Japanese kitchen cutting board that is perfect for general-purpose tasks and preserving the edges of your Shun knives. With its high-quality construction and care instructions, this cutting board is an excellent addition to any kitchen.

2. Shun Hinoki Cutting Board – Large, 20" X 14", Authentic Japanese Kitchen Board For Preserving Knife Edges With Juice Groove.

The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board with Juice Groove is an essential tool for any home cook or professional chef. With dimensions of 20 by 14 inches, this wooden cutting board is perfect for all general-purpose food preparation tasks.

Crafted from hinoki, a type of Japanese cypress, this cutting board is renowned for its beauty and delicate, natural fragrance. The wood is medium-soft, which helps to preserve the edges of your Shun knives as you cut. The high-quality construction and Forest Stewardship Council Certification ensure that the wood used in this cutting board comes from sustainable forest management practices.

The juice groove around the edge of the cutting board helps to catch any juices and prevent messes. This feature makes it an ideal choice for cutting meats, fruits, and vegetables. The board's size and shape provide plenty of space for large chopping jobs, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

To ensure the longevity of your cutting board, it is recommended to wet it before each use to resist staining. After use, wash with mild detergent, towel dry, then air dry away from direct sunlight. For stubborn stains, rub a cut lemon across the surface of the board.

Shun knives are handcrafted by highly skilled artisans, inspired by the traditions of ancient Japan. The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board upholds these traditions by providing an authentic Japanese kitchen cutting experience.

In conclusion, the Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board with Juice Groove is a high-quality and versatile addition to any kitchen. Its medium-soft wood preserves the edges of your knives, while the juice groove helps to prevent messes. The care instructions ensure that the cutting board will last for years to come, making it an excellent investment for any home cook or professional chef.

3. Japanese-Made Yoshihiro Hi-Soft Cutting Board For Sashimi Chefs (Small) – High Performance Professional Grade.

The Yoshihiro Hi-soft High Performance Professional Grade Cutting Board is a must-have tool for any Japanese sashimi chef. This cutting board is constructed with high-quality synthetic material that is specifically designed to minimize stress on your hand and impact on the blade. As a result, your knives will have better edge retention and a longer lifespan.

One of the standout features of the Hi-soft cutting board is its ability to protect the edge of your knife. This is because the board is specifically designed to be the best cutting surface for high carbon steel knives. In fact, a cutting board has a significant impact on knife edge durability, more so than the food itself. Therefore, investing in a high-quality cutting board like the Hi-soft is an essential step in maintaining the longevity of your knives.

The Hi-soft cutting board is also easy to clean and provides odor resistance. This is a crucial feature for any chef, as it helps to maintain the hygiene and freshness of the food being prepared. Additionally, the cutting board is available in a range of sizes, including Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, and XXX-Large, so you can choose the size that best suits your needs.

Made in Japan, this cutting board is a testament to the high-quality craftsmanship that is synonymous with Japanese products. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the synthetic material used to the precise construction of the board itself. This is a product that is designed to last, and it is sure to become an essential tool in any Japanese sashimi chef's kitchen.

In conclusion, the Yoshihiro Hi-soft High Performance Professional Grade Cutting Board is an excellent investment for anyone who is passionate about Japanese cuisine. It is a tool that is designed to protect the edge of your knife, provide a hygienic cutting surface, and last for years to come. With a range of sizes available and the high-quality craftsmanship that comes with a product made in Japan, this cutting board is an essential addition to any kitchen.

4. Shun Large Hinoki Cutting Board: Authentic Japanese Kitchen Board For Preserving Knife Edges.

The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board is an essential tool for any home or professional kitchen. Measuring 17.75 by 11.75 inches, it provides ample space for all general-purpose food preparation tasks. Its medium-soft wood surface "gives" as you cut, which helps to preserve your knife edges and prolong the life of your Shun knives.

Crafted from hinoki, a type of Japanese cypress renowned for its beauty and delicate fragrance, this cutting board is Forest Stewardship Council Certified for sustainable forest management practices. This means you can feel good about using a product that has been responsibly sourced and manufactured.

To maintain the quality of your Hinoki Cutting Board, it is important to follow proper care instructions. Wet the board before each use to resist staining, and wash it with mild detergent. After washing, towel dry the board and then let it air dry away from direct sunlight. For stubborn stains, rub a cut lemon across the stain.

The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board is the perfect complement to your Shun knives. Inspired by the traditions of ancient Japan, Shun knives are handcrafted by highly skilled artisans to produce blades of unparalleled quality and beauty. These knives are designed to be used on the Hinoki Cutting Board, which provides a surface that is gentle on the blades while still allowing for precision cutting.

Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, the Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board is an investment that will provide years of use and enjoyment. Its high-quality construction, traditional Japanese design, and sustainable sourcing make it a product that you can feel good about using in your kitchen.

5. Imarku 10-Piece Kitchen Knife Set With Block, High-Carbon Stainless Steel And Cutting Board, Ideal Gift For Men And Women.

The imarku 10-Piece Kitchen Knife Set is a professional all-in-one kitchen knife set that includes a variety of knives to meet all your kitchen needs. This set includes an 8" Chef Knife, 7" Santoku Knife, 8" Bread Knife, 8" Slicing Knife, 5" Utility Knife, 3" Paring Knife, 5.5" Kitchen Shear, 8" Knife Sharpeners Rod, 13" Bamboo Knife Block, and a Cutting Board.

Crafted from German premium high-carbon stainless steel, this knife set is resistant to rust, corrosion, and discoloration. The hand-polished knife-edge ensures unparalleled sharpness and quality. The ergonomic and double rivets knife handle design provides perfect stability and control, reducing finger numbness and making knives easier, stronger, and more practical to use.

One unique feature of this knife set is the removable bamboo cutting board that can be placed in the bamboo knife block. The combination of art and functionality is unparalleled in the market. The delicate bamboo knife block provides a solid place to store all the kitchen knives, saving kitchen space and keeping them away from children.

To maintain the sharpness of the knives, hand washing is highly recommended, followed by drying with a soft cloth to reduce the risk of rusting. This caring tip prolongs the lives of the knives and ensures their high functionality.

This knife set is an ideal gift for anyone who loves cooking and wants a perfect companion to make delicious meals for their families. It can be gifted on weddings, birthdays, housewarmings, Thanksgiving, Christmas, mother's day gifts for women, etc.

Lastly, the imarku kitchen knife set comes with a One-year Warranty and 24-hour Friendly Customer Service. If you have any problem with the knife set, please feel free to contact the company at any time.

6. Imarku 10-Piece Japanese Chef Knife Set With Block And Cutting Board, Professional Kitchen Knives.

The imarku Knife Set for Kitchen with Block is a 10-piece knife set that includes essential knives for all kinds of kitchen tasks. The set comes with a Chef Knife, Santoku Knife, Bread Knife, Slicing Knife, Utility Knife, Paring Knife, Kitchen Shear, Knife Sharpener Rod, and a Bamboo Knife Block and Cutting Board. This almost professional-grade knife set is perfect for home cooks who want high-quality knives that can meet their daily cooking needs.

The knives in this set are made of premium high-carbon Japanese stainless steel, which provides excellent resistance to rust, corrosion, and discoloration. The knife block is made of high-grade bamboo, which is a durable and sustainable material that adds elegance to any kitchen. The chef knife set also comes with a bamboo cutting board, which is a thoughtful addition that most knife sets do not have.

One of the standout features of this Japanese chef knife set is its ultra-sharp edge. Each knife in the set is forged using a professional-grade plain forging process and precisely tempered to produce unparalleled sharpness. The knives have a hand-polished edge at 14-16 degrees per side, which ensures that they can slice through food with ease.

The imarku knife set is designed to be both ergonomic and high-end. The bamboo knife block has a hollow and solid design that provides ultimate safety and cleaning needs. The removable bamboo cutting board is placed at the block base, which makes it easy to access and use. The compact and artistic design of the knife set is unique and will complement any kitchen decor.

This knife set is an enjoyable present for anyone who loves to cook. It is carefully handcrafted and can be a perfect gift for fathers, mothers, daughters, sons, friends, or loved ones. The set comes with a one-year replacement and 24-hour friendly customer service. If you receive defective products or you are not completely satisfied with them, you can contact the manufacturer to get a replacement or refund.

In conclusion, the imarku Knife Set for Kitchen with Block is a high-quality and versatile knife set that can meet most of your needs in the kitchen. The set is made of premium materials, has an ultra-sharp edge, and an ergonomic and high-end design. If you want a reliable and durable knife set that can last for years, this is the one to get.

7. 11-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set With Block, Cutting Board, Cleaver, And Sharpener By Imarku.

The imarku Knife Set with Block, Cutting Board, and Cleaver is a comprehensive collection of high-quality knives and accessories that are perfect for both professional and amateur chefs. This 11-piece set includes a cutting board, a 7-inch cleaver knife, an 8-inch chef knife, an 8-inch bread knife, all-purpose shears, a knife sharpener, a knife holder, and four 4.5-inch steak knives.

Crafted from German High Carbon Stainless Steel, these knives are designed to maximize durability, sharpness, and cutting efficiency. The sharp blades allow for effortless and time-saving cutting performance, while the knife block and cutting board are made from Acacia hardwood, which is long-lasting and durable.

The kitchen knives set features a premium Pakkawood handle that provides a comfortable and flexible grip, while increasing handle weight to improve balance. The D-shaped handle perfectly fits the hand, delivering long-lasting comfort even during prolonged use.

The knife set and cutting board are well organized in the knife stand, making it easy to store and access the knives. The knife block not only helps to keep the kitchen organized but also adds a decorative touch to the space.

The imarku Knife Set with Block, Cutting Board, and Cleaver is an ideal gift for special occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Housewarming, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. The set comes in an exquisitely packaged gift box, making it an impressive gift.

To maintain the sharpness and glossiness of the kitchen knife set, it is recommended to hand wash instead of using the dishwasher. The imarku Knife Set with Block, Cutting Board, and Cleaver is a must-have for any kitchen, providing a comprehensive collection of high-quality knives and accessories that will make cooking a breeze.

8. Shun Classic Santoku Knife Set With Herb Shears And Hinoki Cutting Board – Handcrafted Japanese Steel For Essential Kitchen Needs.

The Shun Classic Set is an essential trio for any kitchen, featuring a 5.5-inch Santoku knife, herb shears, and Hinoki cutting board. Each piece is exquisitely handcrafted by skilled artisans in seki City, Japan, and boasts unparalleled quality, performance, and beauty inherent in all Shun products.

The Classic 5.5-inch Santoku knife is a must-have kitchen tool, as tasteful and contemporary as it is functional. Its all-purpose, razor-sharp blade is ideal for preparing herbs, vegetables, fruits, and more. Made from high-quality Japanese steel, this knife is designed to last and maintain its sharpness for a long time.

The award-winning 7.5-inch Shun herb shears are designed with comfort and performance in mind, cleanly cutting even the finest herbs with precision. These shears are perfect for harvesting and preparing fresh herbs from your garden or the store. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a great addition to any kitchen.

The Hinoki cutting board is made from a medium-soft wood that is renowned for its beauty and delicate fragrance. This wood "gives" as you cut, helping to preserve the fine edges of your Shun cutlery. The board is also designed to be gentle on your knives, reducing the risk of dulling or damaging them over time.

The Shun Classic Set is an ideal gift for special occasions, treasured by newlyweds, moms, dads, chefs, students, hosts, entertainers, cooks, and more. Its exquisite craftsmanship and superior quality make it a valuable addition to any kitchen, and its timeless design ensures that it will be enjoyed for years to come. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, the Shun Classic Set is an essential trio that will elevate your culinary skills to the next level.

9. Medium-Sized, Knife-Friendly Hinoki Cypress Wood Cutting Board For Easy Serving, Cleaning, And Storage.

Introducing the PLIKI Whole Hinoki Cypress Wood Cutting Board, a high-quality chopping board made from solid hinoki cypress grown in South Korea. Crafted by experienced artisans, this cutting board is designed to be durable, knife-friendly, and easy to clean and store.

Unlike other cutting boards made by attaching pieces of wood, the PLIKI Whole Hinoki Cypress Wood Cutting Board is made from a single piece of wood that does not separate even after long use. No chemicals or adhesives are used in the production process, ensuring a natural and safe product.

The board's natural and convenient design features a beautiful and unique age-rimmed pattern that gives each board a special quality. Both sides of the cutting board can be used, and can be differentiated by the logo-printed side for different materials.

One of the standout features of this cutting board is its knife-friendly surface. Japanese sushi chefs particularly appreciate its ability to protect the blades due to the hard yet smooth surface of the cypress wood. Additionally, the cutting board has a natural woody scent that comes from the wood's high concentration of phytoncide.

Cypress wood is also a lightweight material, making it easy to carry around and use as a plating board. The board's corner hole is designed for easy hanging and drying after washing, ensuring that the board stays clean and hygienic.

The PLIKI Whole Hinoki Cypress Wood Cutting Board is medium-sized, with dimensions of W: 13.7 in (35cm), L: 7.8 in (20cm), and H: 1 in (2.7cm). It can be used as a sub cutting board or for plating, and is perfect for those who appreciate natural, high-quality kitchen tools.

In summary, the PLIKI Whole Hinoki Cypress Wood Cutting Board is a must-have for anyone who values quality, natural materials, and expert craftsmanship. Its knife-friendly surface, unique design, and easy-to-clean features make it an excellent addition to any kitchen.

10. Professional Japanese Style Soft Rubber Cutting Board 18×12 – Cut Proof For Premium Knives

The Professional Japanese Style Soft Rubber Cutting Board is the ultimate cutting board for both home and professional use. This board is designed to provide an exceptional cutting experience for premium Japanese or German knives. Its soft rubber surface ensures that your knives stay sharp and accurate with every cut.

This cutting board is a favorite among Japanese sushi chefs because of its durability and low maintenance. Unlike plastic or wood cutting boards, rubber composite boards significantly reduce knife and board maintenance. They are also easy to clean and longer lasting.

The synthetic rubber material used in this cutting board is made from a special compound that provides a firm cutting surface. This surface heavily resists knife cuts and scars, stains, odors, and water. The damage-proof surface ensures that your cutting board will last for years to come, even with heavy use.

The rubber material used in this cutting board is safe for food service and food contact. It will not chip or cut away into food, ensuring that your food remains safe and free from contaminants.

This cutting board requires low maintenance, making it easy to clean and maintain. It is important to note that this cutting board is hand wash only and should not be used in a dishwasher. Cleaning is simple and fast due to the natural anti-scarring surface.

In summary, the Professional Japanese Style Soft Rubber Cutting Board is the best cutting board for premium knives, making it a must-have for chefs and home cooks alike. Its soft rubber surface ensures that your knives stay sharp and accurate, while its damage-proof surface ensures that it will last for years to come. This cutting board is easy to clean and maintain, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen.

Best Cutting Boards For Japanese Knives FAQs

Are end-grain cutting boards better for Japanese knives than edge-grain cutting boards?

End-grain cutting boards are generally considered better for Japanese knives than edge-grain cutting boards. The reason for this is because end-grain boards are more forgiving on the sharp edges of the knife, which helps to maintain their sharpness for a longer period of time. Additionally, end-grain boards have a softer surface, which is gentler on the knife's edges, preventing chips and other damage. Japanese knives are known for their precision and sharpness, so using an end-grain cutting board can help to preserve these qualities. Edge-grain boards, on the other hand, have harder surfaces that can dull the blades over time. While any cutting board can be used with Japanese knives, end-grain boards are generally considered the best option for maintaining the knives' sharpness and precision.

Should I choose a cutting board with a juice groove or without when using Japanese knives?

When using Japanese knives, it is recommended to use a cutting board without a juice groove. Japanese knives have thinner and sharper blades than Western knives, and a juice groove can cause the blade to strike the board, dulling the edge. Moreover, the groove can trap food particles and liquids, leading to cross-contamination and bacterial growth.

A cutting board without a juice groove allows for a smoother and cleaner cut, preventing food from sticking to the board and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. However, it is essential to choose a cutting board made of a material that is gentle on the blade, such as wood or bamboo, to maintain the knife's sharpness for longer. A wooden cutting board also absorbs excess moisture, preventing the wood from warping or cracking.

In conclusion, when using Japanese knives, it is best to choose a cutting board without a juice groove, made of a soft material like wood or bamboo, to ensure the knife's longevity and food safety.

What features should I look for in a cutting board to ensure it won't damage my Japanese knives?

When selecting a cutting board that won't damage your Japanese knives, there are a few key features to consider. Firstly, the material of the cutting board itself is important. Opt for wood, bamboo or rubber, as these materials are soft enough to prevent damage to the blades of your knives. Secondly, the size of the board should be appropriate to the size of your knives. A small board can cause your knife to slip and cause damage, whereas a large board can be cumbersome to work with. Thirdly, check that the board has a non-slip base to ensure stability while cutting. Lastly, consider investing in a board with a knife-friendly surface, such as end-grain construction, which is better at absorbing the impact of the blade, ensuring longevity of both your knives and cutting board.

What size and thickness of cutting board is ideal for Japanese knives?

The ideal size and thickness of a cutting board for Japanese knives depend on personal preference and the type of knife being used. Generally, a larger cutting board allows for more space to work with and reduces the risk of accidentally hitting the countertop. A thickness of at least 1.5 inches is recommended to prevent the board from warping and provide stability when cutting.

For larger and heavier Japanese knives like the Gyuto, a larger cutting board around 18-24 inches in length and width is recommended. For smaller knives like the Santoku, a board around 12-16 inches is sufficient. A thicker board is also ideal for heavier knives, while a thinner board can be used for lighter knives.

It is important to choose a cutting board made of high-quality wood, such as maple or walnut, to prevent damage to the knife's edge. Avoid glass or plastic cutting boards as they can dull the knife's blade quickly.

What type of material is best for cutting boards when using Japanese knives?

Japanese knives are known for their sharpness, and therefore require a cutting board that will not damage or dull the blade. The best material for cutting boards when using Japanese knives is a hardwood such as maple, walnut, or cherry, which are dense and hard enough to resist cuts and scratches. Bamboo is also a popular choice because it is eco-friendly and has a similar hardness to hardwood. However, it is important to note that bamboo cutting boards have a tendency to dull Japanese knives faster than hardwood boards. Plastic cutting boards are not recommended for Japanese knives as they can damage and dull the blade quickly. It is also important to keep the cutting board clean and dry to prevent bacteria growth that can potentially contaminate food. Ultimately, the best cutting board for Japanese knives will be made of a dense hardwood that will not damage the blade while providing a sturdy surface for precision cutting.

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