Last updated: October 2, 2026
This page explains how we check what we publish and how we label what we know first-hand versus what we have only researched.
Who does what
Shokunin Journal is edited by Hiro. Hiro researches and writes the articles. Knives labeled Tested are used for everyday cooking in our household kitchen, mostly by Hiro’s wife, who cooks every day. Hiro records what we observe and is responsible for everything published.
Tested, Seen in person, or Researched
Every product we describe carries one of three labels.
- Tested: this exact model has been used for everyday cooking in our own kitchen. We say for how long and for what kinds of food.
- Seen in person: we handled the product in a shop, workshop or event but did not cook with it.
- Researched: we have not handled the product. The description relies on the maker’s or retailer’s published information, which we name.
We never describe a product as tested, used or recommended from experience unless it was.
Specifications and handmade variation
- Specifications such as steel, hardness (HRC), blade length, weight and handle material come from the maker or retailer unless we state that we measured them ourselves.
- Many Japanese knives are made by hand. Individual pieces of the same model can differ in weight, dimensions, finish, grind, handle wood and color. The knife you receive may not look exactly like the one in our photos.
- Makers and retailers sometimes change specifications, suppliers or finishes without notice. Always check the current listing before you buy.
Prices and availability
- Prices and stock change often and differ by country. Any price we mention is approximate, shows the date we checked it, and is not an offer.
- Import duties, taxes and shipping costs depend on your country and the seller. We cannot guarantee what you will pay.
Photos
- Photos are our own unless the caption names another source.
- We do not edit photos to change how a product looks, apart from basic cropping, exposure and color correction.
Sources and translation
Much of our research uses Japanese-language sources, such as maker catalogs, wholesaler information and public interviews. We translate them as accurately as we can and link to the original where possible.
Use of AI tools
We may use AI tools to help with drafting, translation and research. Hiro reviews every article, checks facts against the sources named, and is responsible for what is published.
Independence
Affiliate commissions do not influence our ratings or recommendations. See our Affiliate Disclosure.
Corrections
If you find an error, please tell us through our contact form. We review every report. When we correct a fact, we update the article and add a dated note describing the change.