50 Most Useful Japanese Kitchenware You Can Buy Online

by Teni Wada | LIFESTYLE

Preparing and presenting home-cooked Japanese cuisine with authentic Japanese cookware is more than an aesthetic choice. With the right tools you be sure to always serve perfectly-cooked rice, impeccably shaped tamagoyaki omlettes, flawlessly cut sushi, and smoothly cooled sake.

You don’t need to worry if you can’t find the right Japanese kitchen items outside of Japan, we’ve found everything you need, available to buy online! So check out this list of 50 amazing Japanese kitchen goods, and get cooking!

Our editors independently researched and recommend the best products. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links at no additional cost to you.

1. Green Tokoname Japanese Teapot Set by Ukou

Introduce artisanal Japanese aesthetics into your daily home living with this Green Tokoname Japanese Teapot Set. Made from red Tokoname clay and colored black through reduction firing, the eye-catching green accents of the Kyusu teapot and teacups add texture and depth to the ceramics. In addition, the soft white hues inside the teacups highlight the natural color of tea. The inside of the teapot is fitted with a patented belt-like mesh strainer which ensures an even and smooth flow of tea.

Tokoname Japanese Teapot Set - $99.99 at Japan Objects Store

2. Maneki Cat Japanese Maekake Apron

Give your guests a taste of Japanese omotenashi hospitality when you greet them in this Maneki Cat Japanese Maekake Apron. Makekake are 100% cotton canvas aprons that offer lower back support and have been worn by shopkeepers and merchants since the 17th century. This particular maekake apron features a charming maneki neko, an auspicious symbol that beckons good fortune and wealth.

Maneki Cat Japanese Maekake Apron - $69.99 at Japan Objects Store

3. Goma Bizen Ware Sake Set

This Bizen ware sake bottle and cup set exudse the aesthetic concepts of wabi-sabi: Wabi — the subtle beauty that comes from the craftsmanship of these rugged porcelain vessels and Sabi — the impermanence found in the unique manufacturing method of Bizen ceramics. As you drink from these cups, take the opportunity to observe and feel the subtle changes in the surface of the cup with each use.

Goma Bizen Ware Sake Set - $159.99 at Japan Objects Store

4. Half-Moon Bizen Ware Sushi Plate

Simple and understated, this sushi plate is a fine example of Bizen ware, a high-fire pottery process in which pieces are hand-polished to showcase the imperfections and rough texture in the final product. The subtle, earthy hues are accented by crimson detailing and its upturned rugged corners.

Half-Moon Bizen Ware Sushi Platter - $69.99 at Japan Objects Store

5. Hidazuki Bizen Ware Yunomi Teacups

Bizen ware was often used during tea ceremonies as its manufacturing techniques complemented the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. This beautifully handcrafted set of Bizen ware teacups comes in an understated wooden box, making it perfect for a housewarming gift, wedding gift, or any special occasion.

Bizen Ware Yunomi Teacup Set - $94.99 at Japan Objects Store

6. Brown Tokoname Japanese Matcha Tea Bowl

This brown Tokoname matcha bowl is a contemporary take on the centuries-old tool used in Japanese tea ceremonies. Handcrafted from red Tokoname clay glazed with light, earthy enamels, the texture and weight of this matchawan adds to its visual beauty while the mineral deposits in Tokoname clay adds softness to Japanese tea.

Tokoname Matcha Tea Bowl - $79.99 at Japan Objects Store

7. Goma Bizen Ware Beer Set

It said that beer tastes better when consumed out of ceramic cups, and these Bizen ware beer cups are no exception! Out of Japane’s 6 ancient pottery kilns, Bizen, located in Okayama Prefecture, is considered to have the most outstanding traditions. It is fired in a kiln without a ceramic glaze, creating a finished product that you can imprint upon with each use. This beer cup set comes with a complementary wooden gift box.

Goma Bizen Ware Beer Set - $119.99 at Japan Objects Store

8. Red Clay Tokoname Japanese Teacup Set by Ukou

Add roundness to the flavor of your authentic Japanese loose leaf teas when you serve them in these dishwasher-safe Tokoname ceramic tea cups. The iron deposits in Tokoname clay, from the town of Tokoname in Aichi Prefecture, add depth to the taste of Japanese tea, making this pair of tea cups suitable for sensha and kariganecha. The vibrancy of the red tokoname clay contrasts beautifully with the hazy white artistic brush strokes inside each teacup.

Tokoname Japanese Teacup Set - $59.99 at Japan Objects Store

9. Black Grain Tokoname Japanese Teacup Set

The white-to-back gradient of this Black Grain Tokoname Japanese Teacup Set by Junzo complements any contemporary kitchen, giving your table a modern and sophisticated finish. Tokoname clay, which is naturally red, is dramatically transformed with the two-tone glaze, which belies the lightweight nature of Tokoname clay and the roundness it adds to Japanese green tea.

Black Grain Tokoname Teacup Set - $79.99 at Japan Objects Store

10. Tan Tokoname Japanese Sake Set by Yamadatoen

This ceramic Tokoname sake set consists of a sake bottle and two cups glazed with neutral and light earthy tones. It is said that the iron deposits in Tokoname clay enhances the flavor of the sake, making this set suitable for sake served hot or cold.

Handmade in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, one of Japan’s 6 ancient kilns, this sake bottle set would make a fantastic gift for both sake connoisseurs and those new to the world of Japanese rice wine.

Tokoname Japanese Sake Set - $99.99 at Japan Objects Store

11. Japanese Chef Knife

This hand-forged gyuto, or chef’s knife from Yoshihiro Cutlery boasts 33 layers of Damascus stainless steel. A wonderful addition to any kitchen, this high-grade chef knife is ideal for slicing and chopping fresh produce, cutting fish, and carving roasts with little resistance.The tasteful lacquered magnolia sheath compliments the handle and adds a hint to elegance to this handcrafted knife.

Japanese Chef Knife – Available at Amazon

12. Japanese Indoor Grill

This electric griddle from Zojirushi cuts down on the use of excessive pots and pans as its extra large non-stick surface evenly cooks breakfast, lunch, or dinner in just one go. Cook and serve directly from the tepenyaki grill which also has a keep warm setting and heats up to 425˚F / 220˚C. The cooking plate sits inside the base to prevent splatter and and can be removed for easy cleaning.

Japanese Indoor Grill – Available at Amazon

13. Japanese Soul Cooking Cookbook

Recreate classic Japanese meals at home with Japanese Soul Cooking, a collection of more than 100 savory recipes that are staples in Japanese cuisine. Author Tadashi Ono shares how to use common western ingredients to prepare authentic Japanese soul food, like okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlets), and gyoza (pot stickers). Whether you’re in the mood for dinner inspo or want to jazz up tomorrow’s lunch box, you are sure to discover your new favorite dish in this cookbook.

Soul Cooking, Japanese Cookbook – Available at Amazon

14. Zojirushi Coffee Maker

Start every morning with the perfect cup of coffee brewed with this stylish coffee maker from Japan’s premier home electronics maker, Zojirushi. Simply add your coffee beans, water, filter and let this functional machine do the rest. It even doubles as a coffee warmer.

Zojirushi Coffee Maker – Available at Amazon

15. Siroca Home Bakery

Ideal for kitchens with limited counter space, this Siroca Home Bakery system lets you bake Japanese-style loaves of bread as well as filing treats like butter rolls and croissants. You can even use this bread machine to make cheeses and jams! Though all directions are in Japanese, a quick online search will yield plenty of detailed videos and recipes in English.

Siroca Home Bakery – Available at Amazon

16. Salt Box/Condiment Container

Keep dry condiments airfresh with this ceramic dish crafted by Zero Japan. The hinged wooden lid creates an airtight seal impenetrable even by humid weather. Available in a variety of attractive colors that compliment your kitchen decor, you’ll want to have several of these on hand to store salts, and other seasonings.

Salt Box – Available at Amazon

17. Egg Timer

Want to know the secret to boiling eggs with consistent results? Invest in an egg timer! Affordable lifestyle retailer Daiso is no stranger to useful kitchen products, and this adorable egg timer is an absolute must-have if eggs frequently appear in your breakfast menu. Simply place the time in a pot of eggs and water, and watch as the color on the timer gradually changes from pink to white, indicating if the yolk is “soft“, “medium” or “hard“.

Egg Timer – Available at Amazon

18. Donabe Pot

Introducing nabe, or Japanese hot pot dishes to your cooking repertoire is a great way to serve healthy and hearty meals. Typically served during the colder months, nabe dishes such as soups and stews are prepared over an open fire (gas range) in a wide, earthenware pot known as donabe. This handcrafted pot comes with a matching lid and serves up to 5 people.

Donabe Pot – Available at Amazon

19. Donabe Rice Cooker

Once you’ve mastered cooking hot pot dishes in a donabe pot, it’s time to test your boundaries by preparing rice cooked over an open flame. But be warned — you may never look at your electric rice cooker the same way after you’ve successfully mastered how to get that golden brown crispy coating of rice called okoge.

Donabe Rice Cooker – Available at Amazon

20. Chawanmushi Cup

Chawanmushi, or steamed egg custard, is a traditional japanese dish served in a distinct serving cup that comes with a lid and saucer. This ceramic chawanmushi cup set is Mino ware, a type of pottery produced in Gifu Prefecture for more than 1,300 years.

Chawanmushi Cup – Available at Amazon

21. Hangiri Sushi Rice Bowl

Turn sushi night into an authentic hands-on experience with this wooden hangiri sushi rice bowl. Made from Japanese cypress wood, this handcrafted hangiri absorbs excess moisture in the rice, allowing for it to reach the ideal consistency each time.

Hangiri Sushi Rice Bowl – Available at Amazon

22. Rice Paddle

A shamoji is a special paddle used for serving rice straight out of the rice cooker. While shamoji may come in a variety of colors and sizes, two of its most distinguishable features are its textured surface to prevent rice from sticking to the surface and thin edge that cuts through rice without mashing. This particular shamoji stands on its own, thanks to its wide handle and base.

Rice Paddle – Available at Amazon

23. Cooking Chopsticks

If you think certain dishes are easier to eat with chopsticks, wait until you find out that certain dishes are best prepared using chopsticks! The primary difference between cooking chopsticks and regular chopsticks is the length (33 cm) and anti-slip tips which allows the user to comfortably grip the food being prepared. Cooking chopsticks are also great for serving food at the table, and these cute bunny print saibashi will surely become a wonderful conversation starter!

Cooking Chopsticks – Available at Amazon

24. Fish Scaler

Japanese cuisine is known for its dishes that feature fish, and there are a dizzying array of preparation tools designed exclusively for fish. This fish scaler is an example of one such specialty tool. Handmade by Japanese artisans, this fish scale remover has 32 brass serrated sawtooth that cleans the fish without tearing the skin. It also features a slip-resistant ergonomic wooden handle.

Fish Scaler – Available at Amazon

25. Kitchen Rack

If you still haven't caught on to the Japanese art of minimizing and organization, this versatile kitchen organizer is a great place to start! Made in Nara Prefecture by one of Japan’s leading home goods retailers, this total kitchen organization unit sticks to any metal surface or it can be wall-mounted using the provided hardware pack. Use to maximize limited kitchen space and to stay organized.

Kitchen Rack – Available at Amazon

26. Japanese Bento Box

At first glance, this wooden lunch box doesn’t seem very impressive, but don’t be deceived! Magewappa are lunch boxes expertly handcrafted by artisans in Akita Prefecture who employ a multistep process over several weeks to soften and fashion cedar into a curved bento box that can last for up to 20 years. Magewappa have a strong following in Japan, due primarily to its large storage capacity, lightness, and ability to absorb moisture and retain a meal’s freshness.

Bento Box – Available at Amazon

27. Japanese Chopsticks

Say goodbye to plastic utensils and disposable chopsticks with an eye-catching pair of lacquered bamboo chopsticks. Each pair measures approximately 9 inches long and has grooved tips to assist in eating noodles and other slippery foods. Available in 5 colors and patterns, these chopsticks also come with a durable matching travel case so you can dine on the go!

Chopsticks – Available at Amazon

28. Japanese Rice Cooker

Get the perfect bowl of rice every time with this rice cooker from Zojirushi, one of the leading manufacturers of Japanese kitchen appliances. It uses induction heating to cook rice thoroughly and keep it warm at an ideal serving temperature. This rice cooker has multiple menu settings to prepare a variety of rice, including brown rice, sushi rice, jasmine rice, and okayu, a traditional Japanese rice porridge.

Japanese Rice Cooker – Available at Amazon

29. Ramen Bowl Set

Whether you love udon, ramen, or soba, you’ll be able to recreate your favorite Japanese restaurant dining experience at home with this set of glazed ceramic bowls and matching wooden utensils. Instantly transform a bowl of noodles into a filling meal inside these bowls that can hold up to 51 fluid ounces / 1.5 liters, deep enough to hold broth, noodles, and a generous helping of toppings!

Ramen Bowl Set – Available at Amazon

30. Japanese Rice Bowl Set

Make family dinner night special with this set of 5 white and indigo hasami porcelain rice bowls from Nagasaki Prefecture. Hasami porcelain currently accounts for nearly a third of Japan's household goods and is microwave and dishwasher safe. These bowls hold the perfect portion of rice, and can also be used to serve ice cream and snacks.

Rice Bowl Set – Available at Amazon

31. Japanese Ceramic Knife Set

Hailing from the heart of Japan’s centuries-old ceramics industry, Kyoto Ceramics, or Kyocera, has established itself as a leader in ceramic knives. Ceramic knives have a blade made from zirconium and are sharpened on a diamond dust grinding wheel, resulting in edge retention that is ten times longer than a steel knife. This classic Japanese knife set includes a slip-resistant bamboo knife block and four of Kyocera’s best-selling knives to aid you in chopping and slicing produce, fish, and boneless meats and bread.

Ceramic Knife Set – Available at Amazon

32. Knife Sharpener

If you have a high quality Japanese knife that you use frequently, you'll need a knife sharpener of equal quality to extend the life of your beloved kitchen tool. Opt for hand-sharpening with a whetstone, which uses water to prevent the buildup of grit on the stone’s surface. This combination water stone from King uses 1000 grade grit to sharpen and 6000 grade grit to polish.

Knife Sharpener – Available at Amazon

33. Cutting Board

This extra-large cutting board is made from high-quality kiso hinoki cypress, a very aromatic wood that is mold and germ-resistant and holds up well against water and other elements. In addition, cypress wood is soft enough to prevent the dulling of the knife edge, prolonging the life of your blades. Hand wash with a brush and air dry in a well-ventilated area after each use.

Cutting Board – Available at Amazon

34. Tamagoyaki Pan

Master the skill of tamagoyaki, a rectangle shaped omelette, with this Iwachu cast iron Japanese omlette pan specially designed to give tamagoyaki its distinctive shape. Iwachu is a leading manufacturer of Japanese ironware, and this non-stick, pre-seasoned tamagoyaki pan leaves no room for disappointment!

Tamagoyaki Pan – Available at Amazon

35. Water Boiler

If you can’t make it through the day without several cups of tea, you’ll be wondering why you haven't introduced a Tiger water boiler into your kitchen sooner! This 3 liter model is the ideal size for a kitchen countertop or rack and ensures that you’ll always have hot water on hand at the touch of a button. Choose from four settings to preserve your desired temperature to prepare instant coffee, noodles and oatmeal and powdered baby formula for bottle feeding too.

Water Boiler – Available at Amazon

36. Bento Box Set

Adorable plum blossoms and a whimsical white rabbit adorn the lid of this navy blue stackable bento box. Each tier is portioned into resizable compartments, including a rice ball press, and has dividers for sauces, dressing, or traditional side dishes.The matching drawstring bag compliments the bento box, which comes with an elastic band to secure the two boxes.

Bento Box Set – Available at Amazon

37. Miso Soup Bowl

What’s a traditional Japanese meal without miso soup? Round out every meal (breakfast included!) with a hot and fresh bowl of miso soup served in this set of traditional black and red lacquered miso soup bowls. Each bowl comes with a lid and is microwave and dishwasher safe.

Miso Soup Bowl – Available at Amazon

38. Loose Leaf Japanese Tea Caddy

Accent your countertop with an aluminum tea canister featuring traditional Japanese motifs like cherry blossoms, an auspicious maneki neko beckoning cat, and daruma wish doll. Each canister holds up to 100 grams of loose tea and has an airtight seal and a plastic inner lid to preserve the freshness and flavor of your favorite blends.

Loose Leaf Tea Caddy – Available at Amazon

39. Tsugaru Biidoro Glass Set

Expertly crafted in Aomori Prefecture in northern Japan by some of Japan’s most talented artisans, this set of 5 elegant Tsugaru glass serving dishes feature vivid colors and a textured finish. Not only do these glass dishes function as decorative pieces, they are also practical and can be used as sauce and condiment holders, mini candy dishes, and during cooking prep. This set comes packaged in a minimalist box logo depicting Aomori Prefecture.

Tsugaru Biidoro Glass Set – Available at Amazon

40. Ceramic Serving Dishes

It’s not unusual to see a stack of small plates in a Japanese kitchen or restaurant. Called torizara, they are used to serve food to individuals from one large platter. This set of six torizara are playfully decorated with different whimsical designs to accent your meal and lift your spirits. Torizara are also suitable for serving side dishes, cut fruit, and dessert. This set comes packaged in an attractive two-tiered display box, making it ideal for gifting as well.

Ceramic Serving Dishes – Available at Amazon

41. Takoyaki Maker

If you think a takoyaki maker is just for making octopus balls, you’re missing out on a world of possibilities! Use your takoyaki machine to make a variety of savory appetizers and delicious desserts. Here are a few suggestions: perfectly round meatballs, baby castella (honey sponge cake), mini-muffins, and pancake bites are just a few creations that you can make while perfecting your takoyaki technique!

Takoyaki Maker – Available at Amazon

42. Japanese Outdoor Grill

If you’ve ever wondered how to satisfy your yakiniku cravings at home, this portable Japanese grill is all you’ll need to enjoy a variety of grilled cuts of meat. This portable grill is suitable for camping, picnics, beach parties, and other intimate outdoor gatherings. Use the grill for a deep smokey flavor and the griddle to cook and brown your food evenly.

Outdoor Grill – Available at Amazon

43. Japanese Veggie Cutter

The very first Benriner slicer was entered Japanese kitchens 70 years ago, and was originally a wooden madonline style slicer used by hotels and restaurants. Today’s Benriner is made from plastic and is suitable for both home and professional use. The Benriner slicer has three interchangeable blades and a dial to adjust the thickness of each cut, revolutionizing the way you chop, slice, and shred produce.

Japanese Veggie Cutter – Available at Amazon

44. Kitchen Shears

Save time on meal prep by adding this pair of Yoshihiro Cutlery stainless steel kitchen shears to your cooking arsenal. Made in Japan, these water-resistant shears have micro-serrated blades that effortlessly handle anything from chopping, trimming, mincing to cracking nuts and shells. The ergonomic handle is friendly for both right-handed and left-handed users. The blades are easy to seperate for through cleaning.

Kitchen Shears – Available at Amazon

45. Chopstick Rests

The Modern Japanism is a line of tableware from Gifu Prefecture with a contemporary take on Japan’s centuries old history of ceramics. This set of 5 monotone chopstick rests is a part of the brand’s Komon series and features classic Japanese patterns that artfully accent any table, stove top, or counter.

Chopstick Rests – Available at Amazon

46. Jubako

Jubako are tiered boxes seen in a Japanese home during the New Year to showcase auspicious dishes called osechi. This three-tier jubako is made from lacquered plastic and features a pair of majestic cranes, a symbol of love, loyalty, and longevity. Use this jubako on a picnic, to serve snacks, or to store kitchen goods and utensils.

Jubako – Available at Amazon

47. Yukihira Saucepan

The yukihira saucepan is easily recognized in kitchens across Japan due to its dimpled surface. This particular yukihira saucepan is made from lightweight stainless steel in Tsubame, a city in Niigata Prefecture with centuries of metalworking history. Use this saucepan for soups, boiling eggs, blanching vegetables, cooking noodles, and more.

Yukihira Saucepan – Available at Amazon

48. Artisanal Testubin

The tetsubun, or traditional cast iron tea kettle, has been used in Japan for centuries as a hot water server, a humidifier and heater on dry winter days. This matte black, teardrop-shaped iron kettle from Iwachu, however, takes on a different role, and is a stylish vessel for steeping tea handcrafted by expert artisans. Each cup of tea is prepared with iron-rich water with a smooth taste.

Artisanal Testubin – Available at Amazon

49. Tawashi Scrubbing Brush

No Japanese kitchen is without a tawashi: a heavy-duty all-purpose scrub brush that takes care of everything when it comes to kitchen cleanup duty. Made in Japan from natural palm fibers, a tawashi eliminates the use of harmful chemicals and synthetic sponges. It’s the perfect tool for removing soil from root vegetables, cleaning cast iron cookware, and removing stubborn food stuck on dishware.

Tawashi Scrubbing Brush – Available at Amazon

50. Wasabi Grater

Wasabi, Japan’s condiment with a kick, grows in the wild as a root, which is finely grated before use. Make your own wasabi paste with this handy compact ceramic wasabi grater, an animal friendly and dishwasher-safe alternative to traditional sharkskin wasabi graters. It is similar to the abrasive, sandpaper-like quality of traditional graters yet durable enough to withstand daily use and washing. Equally suitable for garlic, ginger, and tumeric.

Wasabi Grater – Available at Amazon

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