8 Clever Kitchen Tools from Amazon’s Hidden Section of Japanese Brands

Japanese products have consistently outperformed the competition in our kitchen equipment tests, whether rice cookers or chef’s knives. From enduring quality to thoughtful design, Japanese-made products have become a gold standard for kitchen essentials that will last a lifetime and look beautiful in your kitchen. If you don’t know where to start with Japanese kitchen tools, Amazon has a hidden Japanese storefront filled with knives, coffee gear, and other genius gadgets, many of which are currently on sale, starting at just $17. 

Best Deals from Amazon’s Japanese Storefront

Hario Cold Brew Coffee Wine Bottle

A crisp cold brew coffee at the height of summer is a dream you can turn into reality with the Hario cold brew bottle. The removable insert is easy to use and won’t leak grounds into your coffee thanks to its fine mesh. It also has a twist-off neck, making the whole container a breeze to clean. Plus, with its bottle spout, the brewer has a smooth pour — no splashing coffee at your breakfast table. Most importantly, it makes a quality cold brew. One customer says they were “amazed by how tasty the coffee came out.” Grab it while it’s 30% off.

Soonear Mandoline Slicer

Mandoline slicers are a humble hero in the kitchen. While unassuming, they’re versatile tools that can slice and julienne at lightning speed — just watch out for your fingers. In addition to the built-in straight blade, the now-25% off Soonear mandoline comes with three julienne blades ranging from fine to coarse. The mandoline also has a thickness adjuster so you can set your desired thickness, whether you need paper-thin potatoes or thick slices of cucumber. It’s also cleverly designed with a curved top, perfect for nesting into the side of a bowl as you slice.

Hario Ceramic Coffee Mill

If you’re a casual coffee drinker and don’t want to invest in a countertop electric coffee grinder, Hario’s ceramic coffee mill is a great manual option that’s efficient and easy to clean. It has a ceramic burr grinder and adjustable settings so you can find the ideal grind for your morning cup of coffee. The transparent body also helps visualize how much coffee you’ll need. At 40% off, it has over 6,800 perfect ratings on Amazon, with one customer buying a new one only after using their last Hario mill happily for 12 years.

Saikai Pottery Rice Bowls, Set of 5

Rice bowls are great for more than just rice. They can simplify your prep with mise en place or hold appetizers at a party. At only $22 for a set of five, these porcelain Sakai rice bowls will be a kitchen essential you’ll reach for time and time again. Plus, the unique blue and white designs bring a bit of understated flair worthy of a dinner party table.

Kai Seki Nakiri Knife

Japan is known for its knives, and this Kai Seki Nakiri knife lives up to that reputation. Designed specifically for slicing and dicing thick, fibrous vegetables, it has a squared-off top that helps the 6.5-inch blade slice through vegetables like butter. The Kai Seki Nakiri knife also has an ergonomic handle designed for comfort. Plus, it’s a steal for $24.

Seki Stainless Steel Spatula

Anyone looking to up their flipping game on the stovetop needs to invest in a fish spatula. Not just for fish, the Seki stainless steel spatula has a wide, splayed turner that can gracefully flip pancakes, burgers, eggs, and yes, fish. This turner comes in both right- and left-handed versions and has the slightest offset at the top for gently getting under your food. At only $17, it’s an attractive price tag for something that will take you one step closer to being a pro chef in your own home.

Zero Japan Salt Box

Salt boxes, also known as salt cellars, are an unsung hero in the kitchen. Since you can scoop directly from these vessels, they help regulate how much salt you’re adding rather than blindly cracking too much (or too little) over your dishes. The Zero Japan saltbox is an aesthetically pleasing container with a beautiful design that comes in a variety of fun colors. The hinged lid makes it easy to access your salt, and cleaning is easy thanks to the sleek body.

Labaraba Cutting Board

We all love our knives, so keeping them nice and sharp for longer is a top priority. While knife sharpeners do essential work, the cutting board you use also makes a difference. This $44 Labaraba cutting board from Japan is made of synthetic rubber and prevents knives from dulling quickly thanks to its soft surface and shock absorption. Using a rubber cutting board like this one will keep your knives sharper for longer, and the non-slip material makes chopping safer, too.