Not everyone visits Tokyo for this, but if you value a fine kitchen knife, then here is the place to come: Kiya Main Store Nihonbashi.

The historical commercial centre of Tokyo, Nihonbashi has always been a lively place, attracting many craftsmen to serve people’s everyday needs. Kiya, a purveyor of kitchen tools, began as an ironware wholesaler when it opened a shop here more than 220 years ago. 

While the store is now housed in the modern COREDO Muromachi 1 commercial complex. the traditional skills of Kiya’s craftsmen remain unchanged. Kiya sells products that are essential for Japanese cuisine, from knives to hammered metal pans and planes for shaving dried and cured katsuo bonito. The shop also offers a popular engraving service for knives so customers can personalize their purchases.

Kiya carries Japanese and Western knives for both professional and home use. Those featuring wavelike patterns on the blade surface—a result of the forging process—are especially popular. The store provides complimentary engraving of names or initials. Engraving takes one week; overseas shipping is not available.

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If you prefer to eat, rather than cook, then Tokyo has you covered too.

With more Michelin stars than any other city on the planet, Tokyo spoils gourmands for sheer choice. But be sure to also visit the equally excellent local restaurants serving up favourites like soba noodles, yakitori, or ramen. Stop by the basement food halls of any large department store to taste wagashi sweets or fine French pastries. Have dinner at a real edomae sushi counter. And when you crave French or Italian, rest assured you will find world-class choices in Tokyo.

Why not start your visit with an authentic washoku experience? Tokyo’s master chefs have access to the very best ingredients in every season, from every corner of Japan. Succulent Wagyu beef, the freshest seafood and vegetables may be rendered delicately or boldly, but always with precision and deep respect for the product and your experience of it. The result might even change your view of gastronomy! The food, its presentation and the setting combine through the sincere spirit of omotenashi hospitality and its attention to detail to engage all five senses for an unforgettable and iconic Tokyo memory.

Learn more about Tokyo's food options....

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Still a little spare time?

Explore timeless Nihonbashi, where Tokyo began. The first department store is here as well as bars and restaurants.....

...or go shopping for artisan art and crafts. There is so much to see and do in Tokyo.

Discover other options here....