Handcrafted in Tosa, Japan for the Hatsukokoro Kokugei brand, this 165mm santoku has an Aogami #1 core with iron cladding and a kurouchi finish. Aogami #1 holds an edge well and gets very sharp. Like other carbon steel knives, it will develop a patina with use and needs to be dried after washing. It is a light, easy-to-handle Japanese multipurpose knife, a good fit for someone building out their first Japanese kitchen knife.
Handcrafted in Tosa, Japan for Hatsukokoro
169mm (6.7") actual cutting edge, 45.5mm heel height
Overall Length: 318mm Blade Length - heel to tip: 169mm (6.7") Blade Height at Heel: 45.5mm Spine Thickness: At the handle: 3.2mm At the heel: 2.5mm Midway: 1.4mm 1cm from the tip: 1.0mm Weight: 142g Balance Point: neck, near pinch grip Handle: octagonal bubinga Hand Orientation: ambidextrous Saya/Sheath: none
Notes:
The photo shows one of the knives from our current stock, so it may not be the exact one you'll receive. Each knife is handmade, so no two are exactly alike. If you'd like to see the actual knife, email us at info@zahocho.com.
Kurouchi finish varies from knife to knife. Fading, patchy spots, and light scratching are normal characteristics, not defects. If you prefer a clean and uniform finish, other finish types may suit you better.
Handle is fitted by the maker and shipped as-is. We don't offer handle swaps.
Shipping & Returns
• Worldwide shipping from Tokyo • Dispatches within 24-48 hours • Full tracking from dispatch to delivery • 30-day returns on unused items Details
Care Guide
• Use whetstones for sharpening • Use wooden or rubber cutting boards • Keep clean and dry to prevent rust • Avoid cutting bones or frozen foods • Hand wash only - no dishwasher View Complete Care Guide
Why is the blade length different from the displayed size? The size in the product title is a nominal reference used by knife makers. The actual blade can be slightly longer or shorter due to handcrafting and traditional sizing. Each product page lists the exact measured length.
When will out-of-stock items be restocked? We carry limited, rotating stock. Once something sells out, we don't necessarily reorder it right away. It could be months before that item comes back, if at all. We bring in new knives regularly, but they're not always the same ones. Our newsletter is the best way to stay updated on new arrivals.
What payment methods do you accept? Visa, Mastercard, Amex, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay. No cash on delivery.