13 Best Cutting Boards for Japanese Knives

Japanese knives are some of the best and most sought-after knives on the market. They’re popular among both home chefs and professional chefs alike. They’re generally lighter, feel more balanced in hand, and have thinner and sharper blades. However, this also means that ordinary cutting boards don’t stand a chance. Using the wrong type of cutting board will only damage your knife. This is why we’re here to help you find the best cutting board for Japanese knives. It should be hard enough to withstand the strength of the Japanese knife but at the same time soft enough that it’ll absorb some force and maintain the knife’s edge. Let’s take a look at each best Japanese cutting board that we’ve selected and see which one fits you best.

Labell Wood Large Canadian Maple Chopping Board

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Fun fact: did you know that Canadian maple wood is considered one of the best woods out there? Yep, this wood is sturdy and unique to Canada. With its fantastic wood quality and unparalleled craftsmanship, the Labell Wood Large Canadian Maple Chopping Board is the best cutting board for Japanese knives you won’t regret buying.

One of the highlights of this cutting board is its size, which is big enough for large dinner parties. Apart from its massive size, we also love its durability. A simple light wash with warm water and soap will be enough to keep your board clean. Take care of it properly, and it can last a lifetime! Plus, the enzymes in maple will stop the growth of bacteria and kill them in the process!

Virginia Boys Kitchens Walnut Cutting Board

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There are plenty of cutting boards for Japanese knives on the market, but not many look like the Virginia Boys Kitchens Walnut Cutting Board. Flaunting an attractive dark brown shade, this best Japanese cutting board has a round shape, making it even more attractive. Aside from its looks, it still has many things to offer. For instance, its smooth surface won’t dull your knives.

Moreover, it’s made of black walnut wood. This material is known for its unmatched durability. By purchasing this best cutting board for Japanese knife, you’ll get a thick, sturdy, and reversible board that won’t warp, crack, or splinter. Best of all, this non-toxic cutting board is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee!

Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board

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Those searching for easy-to-care cutting boards must consider getting the Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board! This best cutting board for Japanese knife is made from Richlite paper composite material in seven different sizes, making this item durable, non-porous, and knife-friendly! Designed for everyday use, it’s also thin, lightweight, and can be used on both sides.

This item, the best cutting board for Japanese knives, is also dishwasher safe. Therefore, we can confidently say that it’s easy to clean. When looking t this cutting board, you’ll notice a thumb hole. It’s not just for aesthetic purposes, though, as it allows for easy storing. Lastly, it can hold up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing it to be used as a trivet.

Sonder Los Angeles End Grain Walnut Wood Cutting Board

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Whether you’re a professional chef or it’s your first time cooking in the kitchen, we’re sure you’ll love the Sonder Los Angeles End Grain Walnut Wood Cutting Board. This dark cutting board is both pretty and functional. As the best cutting board for Japanese knife, it comes with non-slip feet to keep you safe while chopping away. Plus, a deep juice groove can catch the juice around the corner.

Made from sustainably sourced Black Walnut, this cutting board with rubber feet can last forever if hand-washed properly and oiled regularly. Additionally, if you flip it over, you’ll find little compartments you can slide veggies into as you chop. Pretty convenient, right? Best of all, this best Japanese cutting board is backed by a one-year warranty.

Teakhaus End Grain Cutting Board

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As beautiful as it is functional, the Teakhaus End Grain Cutting Board is the best cutting board for Japanese knives that has been helping countless chefs. As you can guess, this product is made from teak wood from well-managed forests. It’s one of the best woods to use with your Japanese knife as it can help it last longer and keep its edge. On top of that, we also love how thick it is.

Though not that visible, there are also low-profile hand grips for easy mobility. Furthermore, this best Japanese cutting board is both moisture and stain-resistant. These two characteristics help to protect the board from splitting, warping, and scarring. To help this cutting board last even longer, you can hand wash it after every use and apply the best oils for cutting boards.

ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Bamboo Cutting Board

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This huge cutting board is the perfect option for those looking for the best cutting board for Japanese knives that can do many things. Available in three different sizes, the ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Bamboo Cutting Board is an excellent cutting board for meat and preparing large dinners. One of the highlights of this best cutting board for Japanese knives is its hard, non-porous surface. It prevents stains, breakage, and even water damage, allowing the board to last a long time.

This best Japanese cutting board is hard as other bamboo cutting boards. However, it’s also soft enough that it won’t ruin your expensive Japanese knife. Considering its durability and quality, you might think that it’s costly. Thankfully, you’re wrong! This fantastic product costs you less than 20 USD! Yep, we’re not kidding! It might be the best cutting board for Japanese knife for your money!

Greener Chef Organic Extra Large Bamboo Cutting Board

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If you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on the best cutting board for Japanese knives, you should get the Greener Chef Organic Extra Large Bamboo Cutting Board. This board is one of the cheapest out there! Specially made for Japanese knives, it can retain its hard surface without ever dulling the edge of your knife. Apart from that, we also love its convenient juice groove around the edge that can store liquids and anything else that might drip onto the countertop.

As if it isn’t obvious enough, this best cutting board for Japanese knife is made from 100% organic materials, meaning there are no chemicals or harmful substances that might taint your food. The versatility of this cutting board is also worth praising. You can easily turn it over and use it as a serving tray! Considering its price tag and everything it offers, not getting this cutting board is a huge mistake!

Kikusumi Aomori Hiba Wood Cutting Board

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Another premium cutting board that we love is the Kikusumi Aomori Hiba Wood Cutting Board. Though a bit more expensive than some of its competitors, you can rest assured that the quality it offers is worth your money. The surface of this board is extremely smooth, and its size is ideal for chopping ingredients regardless of the size of your countertop.

As the best cutting board for Japanese knives, it can also resist bacterial growth, which is a huge plus. Apart from being tough and durable, it also protects the blade of your knife from becoming dull very quickly. Of course, maintaining it is a piece of cake. Unlike many other cutting boards, it doesn’t need to be oiled. After using this board, wash it with soap and warm water, then dry it before using it again.

Asahigomu Synthetic Rubber Cutting Board

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Made from synthetic wood, the Asahigomu Synthetic Rubber Cutting Board is another good option for those looking for the best cutting board for Japanese knives. Though more affordable than many other options on this list, this item is still durable! Since it’s scratch-resistant and heat-resistant, don’t be surprised to find it in good condition even after using it for years.

In addition, this best Japanese cutting board also drains well and dries quickly. This allows you to use it again without waiting too long after washing it. It’s also great to prevent bacterial and mold growth! Want to clean it using bleach? Fret not, as it won’t warp! Weighing three lbs, this best cutting board for Japanese knife is also lightweight.

John Boos Block RA03 Maple Wood Edge Grain Reversible Cutting Board

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Though expensive, the John Boos Block RA03 Maple Wood Edge Grain Reversible Cutting Board is a brilliant investment. As the name implies, this cutting board’s best part is it’s reversible! This means it can last you for a long time. On top of that, this item is handmade with maple wood, allowing you to prepare your food toxic-free. Plus, with a width of 2.25 inches, it’s significantly thicker than other options in a similar price range!

Thanks to this best cutting board for Japanese knife’s reversible design, you don’t have to worry about cross-contamination. Even better, grooved handles on both sides allow you to carry the board conveniently. You must oil this best Japanese cutting board regularly to prolong its life. Apart from that, washing it by hand after every use is also advised!

NoTrax Sani-Tuff Premium Rubber Cutting Board

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As the name suggests, the NoTrax Sani-Tuff Premium Rubber Cutting Board is made from 100% natural rubber. Because of its material, this best cutting board for Japanese knife is slightly cheaper than its competitors. What we love about this material is that it prevents odor and bacteria from building on the board. We also admire this best Japanese cutting board’s durability. Even after long use, it doesn’t crack or splinter!

Moreover, this best cutting board for Japanese knives doesn’t dull your precious knife. Again, thanks to its material, it doesn’t absorb any liquids at all, which is a huge plus. Additionally, the board can be resurfaced by sanding, extending its life of the board even further. Not to mention, this NSF International-certified cutting board is easy to clean. Though it’s not dishwasher safe, handwashing this board is effortless.

Yoshihiro Hi-soft High-Performance Professional Grade Cutting Board

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Polyvinyl and synthetic rubber are also some of the best materials for cutting boards. Enter the Yoshihiro Hi-soft High-Performance Professional Grade Cutting Board! This best cutting board for Japanese knives is everything you expect. It’s durable, sturdy, and allows you to prepare your meal drama-free. It’s designed to reduce the stress on your hand and the impact on the knife’s blade as you cut, which will prolong the life of your Japanese knife.

What’s more, this best Japanese cutting board is also odor-resistant. No more stinky cutting boards! On top of that, it can be washed easily. Just wash it like how you usually wash your cutting board. Don’t worry, as the texture of this board prevents water from seeing in. Aside from that, this item comes in six different sizes, from Small to XXX-Large. Finally, don’t forget to wet this board before using it to prevent stains.

Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board

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The Shun Cutlery Large Hinoki Cutting Board is deemed by many as one of the finest cutting boards you can find on the market right now. This best cutting board for Japanese knives is made of natural hinoki wood, meaning its durability is top-notch. Even after using it for some time, this best Japanese cutting board won’t warp or crack like other cookie-cutter wooden cutting boards. Plus, the medium-soft wood will help you preserve your knife edges. Measuring 17.75” x 11.75”, it’s also perfect for all general-purpose food preparations.

Furthermore, the hinoki wood has a lovely fragrance that makes using this cutting board a delightful experience. Not to mention, this best cutting board for Japanese knife is slim! Thus, it’s a breeze to store the board as it doesn’t take up that much space. Better yet, cleaning it is a piece of cake. Simply wash it with mild detergent and dry it using a towel! Of, you should also wet the board before using it to resist staining.

How To Choose The Best Cutting Boards for Japanese Knives

To keep your Japanese knives sharp and in good condition, it’s essential to consider these features when you’re shopping for a cutting board!

Material

Wooden boards are usually the best choice for Japanese knives. That said, there are two main wooden boards: end grain wood and edge grain wood. End grain wood cutting boards have wood grains running up and down, while edge grain wood cutting boards are simply strips of wood layered together. The former is usually the better choice as it causes the least damage to knives, but it’s also expensive. Plus, wooden cutting boards usually are more high maintenance. If you’re looking for a sustainable and more eco-friendly option, you can opt for bamboo cutting boards. Though not the best, you can use them occasionally when you want to do a lot of chopping.

Size

Considering the size of your cutting board is also a must. A larger cutting board gives you more surface area, which is good when preparing larger or multiple ingredients. On the other hand, a smaller cutting board fits small kitchens better. Also, consider the thickness. A thicker option is usually better as it offers more protection to your countertop.

Maintenance

As we said earlier, wooden cutting boards are great for Japanese knives. However, they need a little more care. You must always wash it thoroughly after every use and dry it properly. Meanwhile, glass or stone cutting boards need the least care. However, they can easily damage your Japanese knives.

Price

Finally, you should consider the price. Usually, the cutting board’s material, size, and brand will impact the price. But if the cutting board you want is less likely to damage your knife, it’s worth paying a little more.

Is maple good for Japanese knives?

Of course! End grain cutting boards made from maple or other materials like cherry, cypress, cedar, walnut, or teak are always good for Japanese knives.

What is the best cutting board to use with Shun knives?

Usually, wood, wood composite, and polyethylene cutting boards are the go-to option for Shun knives. Never choose tile, ceramic, or glass cutting boards, as they can quickly dull your knives.

Are hinoki cutting boards good?

Hinoki or Japanese Cypress wood is exceptionally lightweight, making it an excellent material for cutting boards. Also known for its lovely scent, it’s a softer wood, meaning it’ll be gentler on your knives and keep them sharper longer.