MIYABIKaizen II Japanese 9.5-inch Chef's Knife, Large Blade Chef's Kitchen Knife, Black Pakkawood Handle, 48-Layer Flower Damascus Pattern, Handcrafted in Seki, Japan

I have been a loyal Shun buyer for many years. After experiencing repeated issues with my knives chipping and handles fading, a Chef friend suggested I give Miyabi knives a try. The 8' Kaizen II is my first of what will be several Miyabi purchases. I could tell the difference in quality immediately, despite the reasonable price. The handle has a far better hand feel than my old Shuns, the knife better balance and the blade is a work of art. The pictures on Amazon do not do it justice, it’s absolutely stunning, and seems very durable. It's weighted perfectly. The edge is razor sharp, and the knife cuts beautifully. Through tough cuts of meat, while dicing onions, hard vegetables, as well as more delicate items like tomatoes and thin slices of eggplant even razor thin slices of garlic. I can tell that all my other knives in the kitchen will get very lonely, since this will be my go to Chef’s knife from now on. Congratulations to the artisans at Miyabi in Japan for crafting such a perfect knife that will be in my family for years to come. Dōmo arigatōgozaimasu.

First real Japanese kitchen knive and amazed with the difference! Great knife, amazing feel in the hand and the cut is superb.

Beautiful Blade, excellent cutting edge!

Very nice knife , so many ripples and so sharp !

Sharp and pretty, very good knife.

I used this knife for 2 months straight in a busy kitchen and my overall opinion is very high. Yes this blade isn’t the most durable. Yes the knife has a very decent edge. Would i recommend it yes! But if you like to abuse your knives and just do whatever with them in prep and service don’t buy this knife. Overall though I would most definitely buy another Miyabi knife again and I plan on doing so.

This is the third knife I’ve purchased from this brand and the quality and design are unmatched. Incredibly durable, attractive, and fully functional. I will definitely purchase others in the future.

Cuts cleanly, nicely weighted. Feels nice in the hand.