10 Best Tools in Williams Sonoma’s Secret Japanese Section

If you never browsed the hidden gems of Williams Sonoma’s Japanese collection, we’re here to let that secret out. A few strategic clicks will land you in a trove of incredible finds featuring expertly crafted cookware, utensils, and more made with traditional Japanese techniques and rigorous quality standards. And while quality can sometimes mean a high price tag, our favorites start at just $13. 

In this hidden section, you’ll find skillfully honed Japanese knives with razor-sharp edges that won’t dull after multiple years of use. You’ll also find traditional cookware like hand-crafted steaming baskets and carbon steel woks famed for their heat retention. There’s even a variety of dinnerware options that add traditional Japanese touches to your tablescape. Check out some of the best of Williams Sonoma’s Japanese collection finds we can’t keep a secret anymore.

Best Finds from Williams Sonoma’s Japanese Collection

• Global 40th Anniversary Knives, Set of 3, $180, originally $285
• Williams Sonoma Beechwood Wok Turner, $13
• Izumi Noodle Bowls, Set of 4, $80
• Global Classic Santoku & Paring Knives, Set of 2, $80, originally $150
• Akino Dipping Bowls, Set of 4, $40
• Shun Classic Starter Knives, Set of 3, $340, originally $463
• William Sonoma Bamboo Steamer, $20
• Miyabi Artisan 8-inch Chef’s Knife, $200, originally $220
• Williams Sonoma 14-inch Carbon Steel Round-Bottom Wok with Ring, $40
• Global Classic 6-Inch Serrated Utility Knife, $50, originally $85

Global 40th Anniversary Knives, Set of 3

When it comes to elite, chef-quality knives, there are plenty of hidden gems in Williams Sonoma’s Japanese collection, but this award-winning set for over $100 off is a true stand-out. Featuring a 7-inch Asian chef’s knife, a 6-inch Kiritsuke knife, and a 4.5-inch paring knife, this set has been crafted to meet the rigorous standards of Japanese chefs when it comes to perfect balance and seamless construction. Each knife is made with stamped Cromova 18 high-carbon stainless steel, with textured stainless steel handles for extra grip. These three knives can cover most bases in the kitchen, and at this discount, it’s a worthy upgrade.

Williams Sonoma Beechwood Wok Turner

If you’re looking to avoid cooking with plastic utensils to ensure harmful chemicals don’t get into your food, we suggest this affordable wok turner made from sustainably sourced beechwood. Unlike metal utensils, which can scratch pans, the durable beechwood of this turner can lift and toss meats and vegetables in a wok or any other type of pan without leaving a mark. It’s also heat-resistant up to 140°F, making it perfect for stovetop cooking, and it’s only $13.

Izumu Noodle Bowls, Set of 4

For a traditionally inspired set of Japanese noodle bowls, this stoneware collection featuring a decorative indigo blue pattern is an excellent choice. The top handles are the perfect place to rest chopsticks, and with their 37-ounce capacity, these bowls can comfortably hold large servings of soup or ramen. Each bowl features a hand-applied glaze, both microwave- and dishwasher-safe, adding practicality to their elegance. 

Global Classic Santoku & Paring Knives, Set of 2

If you’re on the lookout for a knife set that includes the ultra-versatile Santoku knife, try this duo now on sale for $70 off. A kitchen staple in many Japanese households, the Santoku knife is a meal-prep powerhouse, slicing meats and fish with incredible precision while also chopping and mincing veggies to perfection. In this set, the Santoku knife measures 7 inches, and you’ll also get a 3-inch paring knife. Both knives are designed to be sleek and lightweight and retain their sharp edge no matter how often you use them. 

Akino Dipping Bowls, Set of 4

Why keep your soy sauce or kimchi in a plastic container when you can have them on hand in these delicate porcelain bowls? Made to resemble Japanese Imari ware, these glazed dipping bowls feature attractive scalloped edges with a hand-painted decal in the center. Despite their delicate construction, each bowl is microwave- and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup that much easier. 

Shun Classic Starter Knives, Set of 3

High-quality, durable knives can sometimes be an investment, but with the $120 discount on this bestselling set, now’s a great time to take the plunge. Made by Japan’s leading blade manufacturer, these Shun knives are created using centuries-old techniques to ensure durability and precision. The set includes a 3.5-inch paring knife, a 6-inch serrated utility knife, and an 8-inch chef’s knife to tackle most jobs in the kitchen. They’re also made with 34 layers of micro-thin stainless steel with exceedingly sharp edges that stay that way.

William Sonoma Bamboo Steamer

Whether you’re looking to perfect your homemade dumpling recipe or easily steam gyoza, this traditional bamboo steamer can come in handy. Handmade from natural bamboo, each steaming basket is designed to gently cook meats and veggies to preserve nutritional value and flavor. They’re also stackable and come in three sizes — 8, 10, and 12 inches — to accommodate any size dim sum meal. 

Miyabi Artisan 8-inch Chef’s Knife

For a serious kitchen upgrade that blends elegance with coveted Japanese craftsmanship, look no further than this incredible chef’s knife. Forged from superior steel known for its hardness and durability and hand-hammered for its signature finish, this chef’s knife blends old and new Japanese techniques to produce one truly versatile blade. The coolest part? This knife is honed with a katana-style edge, so it’s basically a mini samurai sword. 

Williams Sonoma 14-inch Carbon Steel Round-Bottom Wok with Ring

Craving the perfect stir-fry? Then it’s time to add this wok to your cooking rotation. Made from carbon steel that can withstand and retain high heat for classic stir-frying, steaming, or deep-frying, this 14-inch wok is rounded at the bottom to work seamlessly with gas stovetops. If you don’t have a gas cooker, that isn’t a problem either — this wok comes with a ring stand that makes cooking possible on induction, electric, and ceramic cooktops. 

Global Classic 6-inch Serrated Utility Knife

At over 40% off, this 6-inch serrated utility knife is a steal if you’re building your collection. Its serrated edge makes it better for cutting foods with hard exteriors and soft interiors, like bread and fruits. Like the other Global Classic knives on this list, this serrated knife is made with the same exacting standards that set Japanese-style knives apart. Crafted with 18 high-carbon stainless steel, you can be sure this knife won’t get dull any time soon.