Funayuki Knife

The Funayuki knife (船行包丁, Funayuki bōchō) is a traditional Japanese knife originally used by fishermen for preparing fish aboard ships. The Funayuki knife has evolved into an all-purpose kitchen tool, perfect for slicing fish, preparing vegetables, and trimming meat. With its sharp, narrow blade, Funayuki allows you to make clean cuts with ease, ensuring minimal waste and maximum control.

Crafted from high-quality Japanese steels such as Blue Steel #2 and VG10, the Funayuki knife offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The blade's single bevel edge makes it especially suited for fish filleting, as it provides a smoother cut along the bone, making fish prep easier. However, it’s also highly effective for slicing vegetables and cutting meat, providing versatility in your kitchen.

Typically measuring between 180mm and 210mm in length, the Funayuki knife is lightweight and easy to handle for detailed tasks that require precision. Its single bevel blade and thin blade thickness make it perfect for filleting fish, cutting fine slices of meat, and creating beautiful vegetable garnishes. 

While the Funayuki knife is closely related to the Deba knife, it’s more versatile for all-purpose tasks. Funayuki is thicker than a standard knife, making it capable of breaking down the fish caught. However, Funayuki is thinner than a standard Deba (fish breaker) knife, which allows for chopping and slicing vegetables and meats with ease. The Funayuki is also easier to sharpen, making it a low-maintenance option for cooks who prefer a knife that holds an edge without requiring constant care.

If you’re looking for a knife that can do it all in the kitchen, from fish preparation to meat and vegetable cuts, the Funayuki knife is a great option for home cooks and professional chefs alike.