Japanese tongs: 10+ best picks for cooking, serving & more

Japanese tongs are more than just simple kitchen tools, they are essential utensils that bring precision, elegance, and tradition into everyday cooking. At Japan With Love, we believe that choosing the right pair of Japanese tongs can completely transform your dining and cooking experience. From grilling mouthwatering yakiniku to serving delicate tempura, these versatile tools not only make handling food easier but also add an authentic Japanese touch to your kitchen.

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1. Why should you choose a Japanese cooking tongs?

Japanese tongs are more than just a handy kitchen tool, they represent a blend of precision, tradition, and innovation. At Japan With Love, we see Japanese utensils as a true reflection of the country’s culinary culture, where even the smallest kitchen accessory is designed with both function and beauty in mind. Whether you are grilling, plating, or serving, having the right Japanese tongs can elevate your cooking experience.

First, Japanese tongs are crafted with ergonomic design in mind. They are lightweight yet strong, allowing you to handle delicate dishes like tempura or sushi without damaging them. Second, many Japanese tongs are made from high-quality stainless steel or natural bamboo, ensuring durability and hygiene. Finally, these tongs are not limited to cooking, they are also ideal for serving noodles, salads, or even pastries.

Key benefits of Japanese tongs include:

• Precision handling: Designed to pick up even the thinnest slices of food.
• Durable materials: Stainless steel and bamboo construction provide long-lasting use.
• Lightweight comfort: Easy to maneuver for both home cooks and professional chefs.
• Multi-purpose use: Suitable for grilling, frying, plating, or serving.
• Cultural connection: Owning Japanese cooking tongs adds an authentic touch to your kitchen.

If you love Japanese cuisine, equipping yourself with high-quality Japanese tongs will transform everyday meals into a more enjoyable and authentic dining experience.

2. Top 10+ best Japanese tongs to equip for your Japanese dining

When it comes to choosing the right Japanese kitchen tools and utensils, the market offers a variety of options tailored for grilling, frying, serving, and everyday cooking. Below are 10+ highly recommended Japanese tongs that combine style, durability, and performance.

1. Nonoji Ud Stainless Steel Tongs
2. Misen Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs
3. Senbudo Stainless Steel Barbecue Tongs
4. Suncraft Spaghetti Tongs
5. Kataoka Bamboo Tempura Tongs
6. Senbudo Stainless Steel Table Tongs
7. Nonoji Ud Stainless Steel Chopstick Tongs
8. Ebm Stainless Steel Meat Tongs
9. Kai Stainless Steel Kitchen Scissors With Tongs
10. Kevnhaun Stainless Steel Barbecue Tongs

2.1 Nonoji Ud stainless steel tongs

The Nonoji Ud stainless steel tongs are sleek and practical, perfect for both home kitchens and professional restaurants. With a smooth grip and high-heat resistance, these tongs are particularly useful for handling hot dishes or arranging food with precision.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 23–25 cm
• Features: Heat-resistant, ergonomic grip, slim design
• Best use: General cooking and serving
• Price range: $20–$30

2.2 Misen stainless steel kitchen tongs

Designed for versatile use, the Misen stainless steel kitchen tongs offer strong control without being too heavy. Their non-slip handles make them perfect for sautéing, grilling, or plating food.

• Material: Stainless steel with silicone grip
• Length: 23 cm
• Features: Locking mechanism, silicone tips for non-stick pans
• Best use: Everyday cooking and grilling
• Price range: $25–$35

2.3 Senbudo stainless steel barbecue tongs

If you enjoy yakiniku or outdoor barbecues, the Senbudo stainless steel barbecue tongs are a must-have. They are crafted with long handles to keep your hands safe from open flames while grilling.

• Material: Heavy-duty stainless steel
• Length: 30–35 cm
• Features: Anti-slip tips, extra length for BBQ safety
• Best use: Yakiniku, barbecue grilling
• Price range: $18–$28

2.4 Suncraft spaghetti tongs

The Suncraft spaghetti tongs are uniquely designed with serrated edges, making them excellent for pasta dishes. Their curved ends allow easy lifting of noodles without slipping.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 25 cm
• Features: Serrated tips, lightweight structure
• Best use: Pasta, noodles, salads
• Price range: $15–$22

2.5 Kataoka bamboo tempura tongs

For those who prefer a traditional touch, Kataoka bamboo tempura tongs provide an eco-friendly option. They are lightweight and safe for handling fried foods like tempura or karaage.

• Material: Natural bamboo
• Length: 21–23 cm
• Features: Heat-resistant, lightweight, eco-friendly
• Best use: Tempura, fried dishes, serving pastries
• Price range: $10–$18

2.6 Senbudo stainless steel table tongs

These elegant table tongs are often seen in Japanese restaurants. They are compact yet functional, designed for serving salads, bread, or side dishes during family gatherings.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 18–20 cm
• Features: Elegant design, easy grip
• Best use: Serving at the table
• Price range: $12–$20

2.7 Nonoji Ud stainless steel chopstick tongs

A creative hybrid, these chopstick-style tongs combine the ease of chopsticks with the grip of tongs. Perfect for those who want precision without the challenge of using traditional chopsticks.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 25 cm
• Features: Chopstick design, slim tip, versatile use
• Best use: Serving sushi, sashimi, noodles
• Price range: $22–$32

2.8 Ebm stainless steel meat tongs

Specially crafted for handling meat, Ebm stainless steel meat tongs are sturdy and heat-resistant. Their strong tips allow you to grip heavy cuts of meat securely.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 28–30 cm
• Features: Durable, firm grip, easy to clean
• Best use: Grilling, meat handling, barbecues
• Price range: $20–$30

2.9 Kai stainless steel kitchen scissors with tongs

Kai offers an innovative design by combining scissors with tongs. This multifunctional utensil allows you to cut and grip food at the same time, making it ideal for kitchens with limited tools.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 22 cm
• Features: 2-in-1 scissors and tongs, ergonomic handles
• Best use: Cutting meat, vegetables, and serving food
• Price range: $28–$38

2.10 Kevnhaun stainless steel barbecue tongs

The Kevnhaun stainless steel barbecue tongs are designed for professional-level grilling. Their long handles and strong build make them reliable for heavy-duty barbecue sessions.

• Material: Stainless steel
• Length: 32–35 cm
• Features: Heavy-duty construction, heat-resistant
• Best use: Barbecue, yakiniku, outdoor cooking
• Price range: $25–$35

3. What are pro tips for cooking easily with your Japan tongs?

Using Japanese tongs effectively can enhance your cooking skills and help you prepare dishes more easily. To get the most out of them, follow these simple tips.

• Match the tong to the dish: Use bamboo tongs for delicate tempura, long stainless steel tongs for barbecue, and spaghetti tongs for noodles.
• Practice precision: Japanese cooking tongs are designed for accuracy, so practice handling small items like dumplings or sushi for better control.
• Use locking mechanisms wisely: Some tongs come with a lock feature, which makes storage easier and keeps them in good condition.
• Keep them clean: Wash stainless steel tongs with warm soapy water and dry immediately to avoid watermarks. Bamboo tongs should be hand-washed and air-dried.
• Invest in multiple pairs: Having different types of Japanese tongs ensures you are always prepared for any dish.

By following these pro tips, you will enjoy smoother cooking experiences and elevate your presentation skills at the dining table.

Japanese tongs are more than just kitchen accessories, they embody Japan’s culture of precision and culinary care. At Japan With Love, we bring you carefully selected Japanese utensils that combine practicality with cultural charm. Add authenticity, style, and function to your cooking with just one essential tool.

FAQs - Commonly asked questions about Japanese tongs

Yuzuki Tsukihana

Yuzuki Tsukihana is a Japanese beauty writer and researcher with over 8 years of experience in the skincare and cosmetics industry. She holds a Master of Science in Cosmetic Science from the University of Cincinnati (USA), where she specialized in skincare formulation, ingredient efficacy, and product safety.

View articles by Yuzuki Tsukihana