Ohira Tomae High-Quality Natural Stone

Natural finishing stones from the Kyoto region occupy a category of their own in the sharpening world, and Ohira is one of the most respected names within it. The Ohira mine sits in the mountains northwest of Kyoto near the Umegahata area and Mount Atago, within the Nishimono western mine district that also includes Nakayama and Shobudani — names that serious sharpeners recognize immediately. CKTG sources these stones directly from the Imanishi Stone Company, where each piece is personally evaluated and stamped by Mr. Imanishi before it leaves his hands. That grading process is not a formality. It is a meaningful assessment from one of the most knowledgeable people in the Japanese natural stone trade, and the High Quality stamp on this stone reflects his direct judgment of its character and performance

Ohira Tomae stones are sedimentary mudstones formed during the Cretaceous period as part of the Tamba geological formation — compressed over millions of years into dense layers with extremely fine abrasive particles that produce a finishing surface unlike anything manufactured synthetics can replicate. This particular stone falls in the 8-10K grit range, is firm and hard in feel, and cuts faster than most stones at its level of refinement. The finish it leaves is a refined kasumi (hazy) polish that retains useful edge toothiness — not a pure mirror that slides off food, but a working edge with real bite and a surface that reflects the quality of the steel being sharpened. This stone was mined in the early 1970s and stored carefully in Mr. Imanishi san's basement until recently released. Stones from this region are no longer being actively mined, which makes well-preserved examples from verified sources increasingly difficult to obtain. Each stone is photographed and weighed individually as it sells — what you see is the exact stone you will receive.

What Customers Are Saying: Reviewers who have used other natural finishing stones consistently describe this one as faster and more capable than expected — buttery smooth on the surface but with real cutting speed and exceptional reach. The combination of polishing and toothiness draws particular praise: multiple owners describe an edge that mirrors while still biting, which is the hallmark of a quality natural finisher. First-time Jnat buyers describe the experience as a genuine revelation and return to this stone regularly even after expanding their collections. Several experienced sharpeners note the stone works superbly on both single bevel and hard double bevel knives. The value relative to other Japanese naturals in this quality range is consistently cited as a standout attribute.

Care Instructions: This natural stone is easy to care for and does not require sealing. Wet the surface before use and sharpen as normal. Allow the stone to air dry naturally after each session — do not leave it submerged in water. Store indoors in a temperature-controlled environment at all times. Never store in an unheated garage or shed — if moisture inside the stone freezes, expansion can cause permanent cracking or damage.

Stone Type: Ohira Tomae Natural Finishing Stone

Region: Kyoto Natural Stone District (Nishimono), Japan

Mine District: Nishimono (Western Mines)

Approximate Grit Range: 8-10K

Grading: High Quality (Imanishi Stamp)

Mined: Early 1970s

Size: 205mm x 75mm x 40mm

Weight: Approx. 1.7 kg

Note: Each stone is photographed and weighed individually — the stone shown is the exact one you will receive