Question 1

Can I take a knife in my carry-on?

Accepted Answer

Generally no. In the US, EU, Canada, Korea, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, kitchen knives go in checked baggage, sheathed and wrapped. Check your airline before you fly. Rules differ by country and airline and can change. You are responsible for checking official sources and for the final decision.

Question 2

Can I carry it around Tokyo?

Accepted Answer

Carrying a blade over 6 cm without a valid reason is illegal in Japan. Taking a new purchase home counts as a valid reason. Rules differ by country and airline and can change. You are responsible for checking official sources and for the final decision.

Question 3

Korea: anything special?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Blades of 15 cm or more may need a police permit. Customs can hold the knife for 7–14 days or more to check it. This matters for gyuto and yanagiba. Rules differ by country and airline and can change. You are responsible for checking official sources and for the final decision.

Question 4

China: anything special?

Accepted Answer

Blades over 150 mm with a tip angle under 60° can count as controlled knives. Declare on entry if unsure. Rules differ by country and airline and can change. You are responsible for checking official sources and for the final decision.

Question 5

US, UK, Australia, Canada, Singapore?

Accepted Answer

Ordinary kitchen knives are usually allowed; banned types are things like flick, gravity or butterfly knives and daggers. Singapore lists household kitchen knives as non-regulated. Rules differ by country and airline and can change. You are responsible for checking official sources and for the final decision.

Question 6

Where can I check all rules?

Accepted Answer

IATA Travel Centre links each country's customs rules. Rules change, so check right before you travel. Rules differ by country and airline and can change. You are responsible for checking official sources and for the final decision.

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