Master Takeshi Saji was inspired to create a KYŌTO themed knife that is decorated with beautiful Urushi (Lacquer) and Maki-e (Japanese lacquerware picture / artwork made with powdered metals). From approximately 794 to 1869 C.E.  KYŌTO was the old Imperial capital of Japan and, today, you can still experience rich Japanese Traditions and see many historic, beautiful scenes and buildings there. Japanese lacquerware Master, Mr. Tsukada, used all of his experience and skill to express the famous, beautiful scenery and buildings of KYŌTO. So, you can now enjoy this impressive Maki-e artwork and Master Saji’s gorgeous Rainbow Damascus custom knife at the same time!

 In order to match the decorative Maki-e artwork, Master Saji has created some of his unique multi-colored Damascus steel blades, which are made by forging a core of Hitachi Blue #2 steel and laminating it with multiple layers of stainless steel, brass and copper. Each blade has a traditional Hamaguri-ba (Convex) grind, a hidden blade tang, a stainless steel bolster and a handle that has been painted with black Urushi lacquer (Waterproof).

 In addition to the decorative Urushi and Maki-e Saya (Sheath/scabbard), each knife also comes with a traditional Nishijin-ori woven cloth pouch and braided tassel (Nishijin-ori textiles use a traditional Japanese weaving technique that was invented by weavers who settled in the Nishijin district of Kamigyō-ku ward, Kyōtō).

 The Bunka is a general-purpose kitchen knife that used to be just as popular as the Santoku, but has become less commonplace in recent years. With its tall blade, the Bunka knife is particularly suitable for cutting vegetables or fruit and the triangular tip area is particularly useful for detailed work and cutting fish or meat.

Knife Model: Takeshi Saji Urushi & Makie Series “KYOTO Motif” Bunka

Blade Material: Blue Steel No.2 Rainbow Damascus

Rockwell Hardness (HRc): 62 to 63

Blade Grind and Edge Shape: Double Bevel Edge 50/50

Handle Material: Urushi&Makie Handle with Stainless Steel Bolster

Saya Included: Yes.

This knife comes with 50/50 double bevel edge geometry for both right and left handed use.

For your information, Japanese Kitchen knives are generally designed for right hand use with a slightly thicker and rounded grinding on the right side blade and a less rounded (almost straight flat) grinding on the left side blade. However, both right and left hander can use the knives that have double bevel edge sharpened  50/50 without problems. 

We believe the quality and cutting performance of Japanese knives are the best in the world, and hope you enjoy fine craftsmanship and sharp edge with your new knife. With proper cares, every Japanese knife should be your special cooking partner for long times.

Important

This is the Carbon steel blade kitchen knife that can get rust and discolor easily, and requires extra care and attention to prevent rust.

• Please do not put the knife in the dishwasher machine for cleaning.
• Please do not leave the knife in water or wet condition for long time.
• After using, please hand wash the blade, bolster and handle thoroughly, and wipe it clean and dry with soft clothes. Please apply Tsubaki oil on the blade and keep it in dry place.
• This is an extremely sharp knife. Please use special cares in using and storing it.
• Unlike German made knives, Japanese knife blades are ground to thin cutting edge for sharper cutting and easier re-sharpening. Please protect the edge from hitting hard materials to avoid chipping or cracking.
• Please do not use it to cut bone or frozen foods, any hard shell foods such as lobster and crab.
• We recommend using Japanese whetstones to re-sharpen the knife, when it gets dull.