Vietnamese Knives: Mastering the Art Behind the World’s Sharpest Blades

When discussing Vietnamese cuisine, dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun bo hue often come to mind—sumptuous meals that delight the senses. But behind every delicious dish lies an equally important tool: the knife. While much is said about the ingredients that make these dishes special, the knives used to prepare them are often overlooked. From the thin slices of beef in a bowl of pho to the pâté spread on a banh mi, knives play a crucial role in ensuring each dish is perfect. Their importance in the kitchen cannot be denied.

Vietnamese knives come in many types, each designed for a specific purpose, and each with its own rich history. Could these knives make a unique and valuable gift for chefs or home cooks during your journey through Vietnam? Join us at Kampá Tour to discover whether Vietnamese knives truly belong in your kitchen!
 

Written by Oliver PHUNG (Local expert)Updated on 10-12-2024

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The History and Craftsmanship of Vietnamese Knives

The origin and history of Vietnamese knives are closely related to the culture and daily life of its people. In the beginning, there were no specific names for knives, but were named according to their functions: agriculture, combat, or kitchen purposes. During the Ly-Tran period, knife production flourished. Blacksmiths in the Northern Mountains produced sharp and durable knives for everyday use. During the 16th century, under the Le and Nguyen dynasties, knives began to be categorized by their specific uses, and the term 'Vietnamese knives' was born.

Throughout history, knives served as an essential weapon during wars and resistance. These tools were used as a symbol of defense for the nation, where blacksmiths forged weapons used during important fights for independence.

In addition to their practical functions, knives played a central role in the important cultural and ceremonial roles-ancestor worship among others. For example, knives from the H'mong people feature intricately carved handles and curved blades, symbolizing both craftsmanship and cultural identity. Hand-forged with iron or steel, these knives reflect the unique techniques of their regions.

Famous handicraft villages such as Pac Rang - Phuc Sen (Cao Bang), and Da Sy (Hanoi) are home to artisans who continue this age-old tradition. Here, knives are not only functional household tools but also works of art, showcasing the skill and creativity of the local craftsmen. The tradition of knife-making continues to thrive, as each generation adds its own mark on these remarkable blades.

Famous Knife-Making Villages in Vietnam

• Phuc Sen, Cao Bang

Located in the northeastern part of Cao Bang city, about 30 km from the urban center, Phuc Sen commune is one of the cradles of the blade-making craft that has lasted for over 500 years. The craft was originally practiced by the Nung An, as they relied on the production of tools and weapons for survival and gaining wealth. Today, the focus is on the design and production of kitchen knives and agricultural knives, which are sold at very high prices throughout the country and beyond.

What distinctly sets the Phuc Sen blade apart from other blades is the use of materials from the locality, coupled with centuries-old forging methods and a closely well-guarded tempering process. All the craftsmen—some from families who have practiced the profession for generations—start by heating and forming steel obtained from reclaimed old car leaf springs and other metal scraps. They then proceed to hammer, fold, and refine, keeping a close watch on the different colors that appear on the steel to determine the correct hardening temperature. Finally, a secret blend of water is used for quenching, finishing the blade with a remarkably sharp edge that lasts a lifetime.

A visit to Phuc Sen is more than an opportunity for tourists to buy a supreme knife; it is an immersion into culture. You can walk through the Pac Rang village of around 400 households, half of which still forge blades, and listen to the rhythmic thud of the hammers. The surrounding greenery of mountains allows travelers to witness artisans carefully testing each blade's sharpness against their ancestors' standards. Beyond the workshops, the lifestyle of the Nung people comes to life with features such as indigo-dyed traditional costumes, folk performances, and special culinary traditions in which these knives play an important role. Altogether, these elements ensure that each knife made in Phuc Sen carries the spirit, skill, and culture of previous generations.

>>> Read more: Cao Bang, the hidden gem of Northern Vietnam

• Da Sy Craft Village, Ha Dong, Hanoi

For more than four centuries, Da Sy Village, located just outside Hanoi, has forged a legacy of excellence in metalworking. Renowned for producing knives and scissors that are both incredibly sharp and visually striking, Da Sy earned its reputation not only through durability but also the artistry evident in each blade. Skilled artisans here painstakingly shape and temper their steel by hand, using techniques passed down through generations. This mastery results in functional tools that balance practicality with elegance—some boasting intricately etched patterns or ornate handles, transforming ordinary kitchenware into works of art.

Today, Da Sy’s traditions continue to evolve as the village embraces a new wave of culinary demands. High-profile chefs and global customers increasingly request custom designs, prompting workshops to refine their methods and materials—sometimes incorporating imported steels or adjusting blade shapes for modern cooking techniques. Yet the village never loses sight of its roots. Recognized by the Vietnam Craft Village Association and committed to honoring its ancestors each year through communal ceremonies, Da Sy maintains a bridge between past and present. With exports reaching Germany, France, and the United States, these knives carry forward an ancient vitality, forging a path where heritage craftsmanship and global gastronomy converge.

Types of Knives in Vietnam: Which One Should You Buy?

• Traditional and modern knives

Vietnamese traditional knives are forged mainly from old metals, especially old leaf springs. These repurposed pieces undergo intense hammering and honing manually. This process turns these rustic blades into something exquisitely fine, sharp-honed by the craftsman himself, and gives them a truly unique character. However, they require proper upkeep—drying thoroughly, oiling occasionally, and considerate storage to prevent rust and maintain keen edges.

Opposed to these is the modern knife, which is manufactured on a large scale from imported stainless steel, thereby making the instrument lighter and mostly rust-free. It lacks the story and sharp cutting touch that a traditional blade offers, but with minimal care, it is easily available at a variety of prices. Modern knives may not have quite the same soulfulness in their identity as the traditional ones but offer convenient durability and practicality, easily satisfying the fast-changing global kitchen environment for the evolved needs of professional chefs and home cooks alike.

• Types of Vietnamese Knives

These are the kinds of knives in the Vietnamese kitchen, marking its long history in rich culinary art. Each kind of knife, from all-purpose workhorses to specialized cutting tools, is distinguished by its unique shapes, cultural connotations, and specific roles in meal preparation.

Bun Dao (Chef's Knife)

The multipurpose star of Vietnamese cooking, the Bun Dao, features a slightly curved blade that allows chefs to effortlessly slice, dice, and chop vegetables, meats, and herbs. This adaptability has made it popular in commercial kitchens as well as homes, complementing every dish—from aromatic stir-fries to delicate garnishes—by preparing ingredients efficiently.

Dao Phay (Cleaver)

Like the heavier, meatier Bun Dao, the Dao Phay excels at breaking and cutting through tough bones and large cuts of meat. Its blunt, heavy, but broad and stable blade also enables users to mince aromatic herbs or smash garlic with ease. Balanced force and artful finesse make the Dao Phay a powerful tool in the hands of a skillful chef.

Specialized Knives

There are also specialized knives inspired by Vietnam's culinary diversity, each made for a specific task. Some are designed to peel fruit, others to carve beautiful shapes out of vegetables, and some to slice fine sheets of rice noodles for dishes like Phở or Bún Chả. These unique blades clearly exhibit the regional flavors and craftsmanship that embody the dimension and refinement of Vietnamese cuisine.

Buying Vietnamese Knives

In Vietnam, knives can be found at any store or supermarket nationwide, but mass-produced options lack the personal touch of Vietnamese culture. For reliable and durable knives, the best recommendation is to visit craft villages like Da Sy (Hanoi) or Phuc Sen (Cao Bang) during your trip. If visiting these villages isn’t feasible, you can contact us to arrange delivery. Vietnam’s shipping services are fast and reliable, typically taking just 1–2 days. Alternatively, you can ask your travel agency to order on your behalf and have the knives delivered at the end of your trip.

Hand-forged knives are more expensive than industrial knives, and the following price ranges are provided for reference:

Da Sy (Hanoi):

• Bun Dao: ~300,000 VND (~$11.82)
• Dao Phay: 110,000–130,000 VND (~$4.33–$5.12)
• Specialized Knives: ~200,000 VND (~$7.88)

Phuc Sen (Cao Bang):

• Bun Dao: ~650,000 VND (~$25.61)
• Dao Phay: ~299,000 VND (~$11.78)
• Specialized Knives: ~329,000 VND (~$12.96)

With these options, you can bring home a unique, high-quality piece of Vietnamese craftsmanship, whether as a gift or for your own kitchen.

Vietnamese knives are now exported directly to Western countries, making them easily available abroad in places like the US, Australia, UK, Canada, and Germany. You can find these forged export knives at Vietnamese markets in these countries, allowing you to bring a touch of Vietnamese craftsmanship to your kitchen. >>> To learn more about exchange rates in Vietnam, you can read the article, Vietnam Currency: Pocket Information for Travellers.

FAQs

Does Vietnam make good knives?

The quality of hand-forged knives with inserted blades is in no way inferior to European knives. But what's with the Vietnamese knives with Japanese designs? It's a marketing gimmick. Cheap shopping based on handmade and recycled materials.

Can I Customize Vietnamese Knives?

Yes! Many artisans and workshops accept custom orders, allowing you to choose blade length, handle materials, and decorative details. Whether you’re a professional chef seeking a personalized tool or a collector looking for something unique, customization options abound.

Are Vietnamese Knives Suitable for Western Cooking?

Absolutely. While designed to excel in Vietnamese cuisine, these knives adapt seamlessly to Western culinary methods. Their fine edges and balanced weight make them ideal for tasks ranging from slicing vegetables to carving roasts. Many cooks appreciate their versatility, blending tradition with modern cooking styles.

Is it illegal to carry a pocket knife in Vietnam?

World Knife Regulation and Vietnam Law:

• It is illegal to sell, directly or via agent or representative, knives of any kind (including cutlery and kitchen knives) to persons below the age of 18 years.
• Carry, in public, without good reason for doing so, any knife other than a folding one not exceeding 3 inches (7.62 cm) in length when closed (e.g., a Swiss Army knife).

Conclusion

Vietnamese knives hold meanings that refer to more than kitchen tools. These knives are ceremonial articles that reflect tradition, artistry, and the exquisite craftsmanship that has developed in Vietnam for thousands of years. Today, the traditional craft of forging Japanese knives is maintained and honored as it evolves in conjunction with modern technological trends for increased blade quality and durability.

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