Last updated: April 2026 Oishya began with a trip to Japan and a question: why are the knives in Tokyo’s kitchen shops so much better than anything we could find at home in Europe? The journey to Japan’s knife villages Our story starts in the workshops of Sakai and Seki — Japan’s two legendary blade-making […]
Last updated: April 2026 A Japanese kitchen knife is not merely manufactured — it is born from a tradition stretching back over 600 years to the swordsmiths of feudal Japan. When you hold one of our knives, you are holding the result of dozens of individual steps, most performed by hand, in workshops where the […]
The Japanese kitchen is more than a place to prepare food. It is a space shaped by centuries of philosophy, craftsmanship, and an approach to everyday life that values harmony, mindfulness, and respect for materials. Understanding this culture transforms how you cook — and how you experience your tools. This guide explores the ideas, traditions, […]
The brown delivery van pulls away from your doorstep, leaving behind a package that weighs more than you expected. Inside that unassuming shipping box lies months of obsessive attention to detail, countless prototypes, and a level of perfectionism that borders on the unreasonable. This is the story of what really goes into creating your Oishya […]
Table of Contents Introduction Understanding Sushi Types of Sushi Common Ingredients Before You Begin Choosing the Right Sushi Restaurant Reservations and Timing Dress Code The Sushi Bar Experience Seating Etiquette Interacting with the Sushi Chef Essential Sushi Etiquette Chopstick Do’s and Don’ts Proper Hand Usage Eating Order Soy Sauce and Wasabi Usage Ginger: Its Purpose […]
Karate, a martial art that originated in Okinawa, Japan, has captivated the hearts and minds of people around the world for centuries. More than just a physical discipline, karate embodies a way of life that focuses on personal growth, self-defense, and the cultivation of a strong mind and body. From its humble beginnings on the […]
At Oishya, we have a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that infuses every aspect of our Sakai Kyuba knives. From the centuries-old bladesmithing techniques passed down through generations in Sakai, to the elegant wooden boxes that house each knife, we strive to honour the traditions that make Japanese craftsmanship renowned worldwide. One such […]
Ah, the evolution of Sakai Kyuba knives and the design of our decorative box! Since first time we released our signature Sakai Kyuba back in 2019, lots of things have changed – not only our name (Japana to Oishya). Almost everything, from design and materials of our knife handles, to decorative boxes, to leaflet paper […]
When it comes to convenient and innovative dining, Japan truly sets the standard. While vending machines dispensing snacks and beverages are common worldwide, Japan has taken this concept to new heights by offering complete meals through vending machines. This unique culinary experience eliminates the need for face-to-face interactions or cash transactions with cooks or servers, […]
In the ever-evolving landscape of craftsmanship and quality, one philosophy stands as a timeless beacon, guiding artisans and manufacturers alike towards a path of continuous improvement. This philosophy, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, is known as “kaizen,” and it has become a cornerstone of excellence, transcending borders and industries alike. Kaizen: The Origins of a […]
Among the legendary weapons that have carved their place in martial history, few command as much mystique and respect as the Japanese katana. This iconic sword, with its distinct curved blade, has captured the imagination of warriors, scholars, and enthusiasts alike, its graceful arc a testament to the ingenious metallurgy and design principles that forged […]
Okinawa Prefecture, comprising over a hundred islands in the East China Sea, represents a distinct blend of cultures, histories, and traditions. This diversity is the result of its historical role as a hub for East Asian maritime trade and its more recent history under American administration following World War II. These influences have woven a […]
Shokuhin Sampuru, or food samples, is a unique aspect of Japanese culture that beautifully blends culinary art with craftsmanship. Originating in Japan during the early 20th century, these lifelike food replicas have become an integral part of the country’s culinary landscape. The inception of Shokuhin Sampuru is as fascinating as the craft itself. It began […]
Nagomi (和み), a profound concept in Japanese culture, embodies the essence of harmony and balance. It’s not merely a word; it represents an ideal, a way of living that permeates through every facet of life, from personal spaces and relationships to culinary practices and mindfulness. At its core, Nagomi is about finding peace and contentment […]
This article is part of our Japanese kitchen culture guide. Chopsticks, more than mere utensils for eating, are cultural artefacts that reflect the deep-rooted traditions and customs of the societies that use them. In East Asia, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea, chopsticks are not only integral to dining but also vary significantly in design, […]
The timeless allure of Damascus steel Damascus steel, a term that evokes images of ancient warriors and exquisite craftsmanship, remains one of the most fascinating materials in metallurgy. Its distinctive wavy pattern, not just aesthetically captivating but also a marker of exceptional quality, continues to intrigue both historians and craftsmen alike. This legendary steel, known […]
Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the East China Sea, Okinawa emerges as a captivating destination that captivates all who set foot on its shores. Renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm-hearted people, this tropical paradise offers much more than just pristine beaches. In this article, we will delve into the rich tapestry […]
We are still newbies when it comes to the vast choice that Japanese cuisine offers, but we at Oishya have eaten enough of it to know that it’s damn tasty. From the streets of Tokyo to the fishing villages of Hokkaido, Japan’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. And let us tell […]
Ever wonder what makes Japanese food taste so good? It absolutely has a very distinct flavour, but how would you describe it? A hundred years ago, the distinct flavour of Japanese food lead to the discovery of a brand new flavor: umami. You probably use a few distinct words—sour, bitter, salty, and sweet—in combination when […]
The true story behind the insanely scary yet cute souvenir Many of you have seen Daruma, these scary yet cute traditional Japanese dolls, which in Japan has become a symbol of perseverance and luck. But outside Japan, not many people know of its history, or what hides behind its goofy look and how it can […]
There are many things that people can learn from Japanese culture and philosophy that can help them live a happier and more fulfilling life. Japanese people are conscious about focusing on the present moment, finding a sense of purpose, cultivating gratitude or practicing self-care. In today’s article we’ll introduce you to 10 beautiful Japanese concepts […]
Do you know the origins of The Japanese whisky? And did you know that the Japanese did not immediately embrace this barrel-aged grain spirit? Over the years, however, its prominence steadily increased, giving today’s Japan the forth place, just outside the podium of the largest producers of whisky in the world. The history of Japanese […]
This is the fifth blog in our series of Secrets of Japanese Business Etiquette (How not to Faux Pas). In particular, it will discuss personal habits to keep in check when conducting business in Japan. There has been much written about Japanese business etiquette, but sadly much of it seems written by people who have […]
This blog is the third one in our series of Secrets of Japanese Business Etiquette (How not to Faux Pas). In particular, it will clear any confusion in terms of appropriate business attire when conducting business in Japan. There has been much written about Japanese business etiquette, but sadly much of it seems written by […]
This blog is the second one in our series of Secrets of Japanese Business Etiquette (How not to Faux Pas). In particular, it will clear any confusion in terms of giving and receiving business cards when conducting business in Japan. There has been much written about Japanese business etiquette, but sadly much of it seems […]
If you are from Europe or America, most of the things you will experience when visiting Japan may come as a shock to you. What’s considered normal for Japanese people for us may be a deviation. And vice-versa. Doing business in Japan or with Japanese is no different. Some industries are more ‘relaxed’ and westernised […]
Although the depiction of samurai warriors is traditionally male-oriented, the Onna-bugeisha, female samurai existed and were just as strong and fearsome. Long before the Western world began to view Samurai warriors as inherently male, there existed an impressive group of Female Samurai, every bit as powerful, smart and deadly as their male counterparts. They were known as the […]
You’ve found the perfect gift for someone special: a beautiful Japanese kitchen knife that will last a lifetime. But then you remember hearing something about knives and bad luck, and suddenly you’re second-guessing your choice. Should you really give a knife as a gift? The short answer is yes – with one important caveat. Let […]
Samurai are legendary warriors and perhaps the most well-known class of people in ancient Japan. They were noble fighters that fought evil (and each other) with their swords and frightening armour. They followed a strict moral code that governed their entire life. The term samurai was originally used to denote the aristocratic warriors (bushi), but […]
Some would say: Don’t teach your grandmother to suck eggs. But before you make any judgement, please understand why Patryk, born and raised in Poland, is on the quest to teach young Japanese generation how to make knives their country is famous for. Blacksmithing is a dying industry. Japan as a country is ageing fast. […]