Aritsugu Nishiki Market

Artisugu – Timeless Craft, Personal Touch Stepping into Artisugu in Kyoto is like entering a quiet temple of craftsmanship. There’s a reverence in the air—centuries of tradition held delicately in every blade and every conversation. I came in curious, and left with not just a knife, but a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind it. A special thanks goes to Mako, whose knowledge, patience, and warmth truly elevated the experience. She walked me through the subtle differences in blade types, sharpening techniques, and care essentials with such care and clarity—it felt like a masterclass in precision and purpose. The packaging was beautiful. Minimalist. Understated. A perfect metaphor for the knife itself—functional elegance. Thank you, Mako, and thank you, Artisugu, for a purchase that feels like a piece of Kyoto I’ll carry for a lifetime.

When buying a knife becomes a life time experience. I always wanted an Aritsugu knife, and I was a bit unlucky due to arriving when they were closed for the holidays. Luckily I got there before my train as soon as they opened, found the knife I wanted and it was already pre sharpened. Now the staff and team are super helpful I told them what I was looking for and asked if I can try two other knives and they were more than happy to accommodate this. The packing and care they give to the knife is beyond words. Would love to go back and buy the other two

I bought many knifes between 2014 and 2019 in this shop for more than 100000 yens. It was great and they engraved for free your items with your name. You come back 2025 prices are increased 50% and they not very welcoming and not engraved anymore your name. So why go there ??? Pass your way. You will find better and cheaper for same quality in other shops. Sayonara Aritsugu you won’t be anymore in recommended guides

Visiting Aritsugu in Kyoto was an unforgettable experience. The moment I walked in, I could feel the deep history and craftsmanship behind every blade. This shop isn’t just selling knives—they’re carrying on a legacy that began with crafting katanas for samurai. Holding one of their knives feels like holding a piece of that history. The staff were incredibly kind and knowledgeable, helping me choose a knife that fit exactly what I was looking for. You can tell they take pride in their work, and they made sure I left with something I’d truly value. The knife itself is a work of art—razor-sharp, perfectly balanced, and made with the kind of precision that’s hard to find these days. It’s more than just a tool—it’s a piece of living tradition. If you’re ever in Kyoto and appreciate craftsmanship, Aritsugu is a must-visit.

Sharp knives. Lots of tourists in the area. I like it that this is one of the places that didn't have the usual offering of Damascus and multiple different knife handle options. I went in and knew what I wanted and got it very easily. It is slightly overwhelming and being a foreigner is definitely harder to communicate with the staff. You also should know the difference between a carbon steel blade and such but there's a lot of reviews on the internet. I ended up with a santoku and am very happy with it. Just have to make sure it's dried when I store it otherwise my knife will rust due to it being a carbon steel knife.

Awesome market in the heart of Kyoto. It has a little bit of everything. Walking through the narrow pathway between businesses, you can find good, gifts, home goods, clothes, traditional local sake, custom made chopsticks, and so so so much more. A couple visits wasn't enough. Just loved this area!

This place offers a WIDE RANGE of knives and other kitchen tools made from carbon steel. I bought my Santoku (all-purpose) knife from here. Staff are friendly and can speak english and was able to provide me with lots of advice and info on which knife I should choose and how to care for the knife. I'm happy with my knife purchase and cannot wait to use it. Even though knife prices are on the higher side, I think of it as an heirloom which you only buy once and it'll last forever as long as you take good care of it.

Underwhelmed by two visits on two consecutive days. It was crowded, but despite waiting on both occasions, I was not helped or even acknowledged and took my business elsewhere. Based on my window shopping I found the quality of knives very good, but not more impressive in the mid-high segment as some competition despite bearing higher price tags. It feels a little tourist-trap'y.