White #1 (Shirogami 1) carbon steel is one of the purest tool steels Hitachi produces - a high-carbon alloy with an extremely fine grain structure that allows it to take a very sharp edge and sharpens back with a responsiveness that more complex alloy steels cannot match. Kawasaki Kajiya has been working with it for over a century in their small family forge in Shiroishi-cho, Saga Prefecture, Kyushu. Now in its third generation under Mr. Kawasaki with his nephew Mr. Mizokami as the fourth, the shop combines traditional blacksmithing technique with iron cladding and a kurouchi (black finish, as-forged surface) finish that gives these knives their characteristic rustic, handmade look.
The 135mm santoku (three virtues) is the compact version of the format - shorter than the standard 165-170mm and sized for cooks who prefer a nimble, maneuverable knife for everyday prep rather than a longer blade. At 80g with a 3mm spine and 41mm blade height it has a solid, grounded feel on the board. The flat profile with a gentle belly handles both push cuts and rocking technique. White #1 at this level of construction and care rewards quality water stones with an edge that is noticeably sharper and more refined than most production knives can achieve, and the iron cladding develops its own distinct patina over time alongside the reactive core. The ho wood oval handle and plastic ferrule are traditional and comfortable.
Care Instructions: White #1 is a reactive carbon steel and will develop a patina with use. The iron cladding will also develop color over time. Wipe and dry the blade thoroughly after every use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones - White #1 is highly responsive on the stone and rewards good technique.
The 135mm santoku (three virtues) is the compact version of the format - shorter than the standard 165-170mm and sized for cooks who prefer a nimble, maneuverable knife for everyday prep rather than a longer blade. At 80g with a 3mm spine and 41mm blade height it has a solid, grounded feel on the board. The flat profile with a gentle belly handles both push cuts and rocking technique. White #1 at this level of construction and care rewards quality water stones with an edge that is noticeably sharper and more refined than most production knives can achieve, and the iron cladding develops its own distinct patina over time alongside the reactive core. The ho wood oval handle and plastic ferrule are traditional and comfortable.
Care Instructions: White #1 is a reactive carbon steel and will develop a patina with use. The iron cladding will also develop color over time. Wipe and dry the blade thoroughly after every use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones - White #1 is highly responsive on the stone and rewards good technique.
- Blacksmith: Kawasaki San
- Location: Shiroishi-cho, Saga Prefecture, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: Hitachi White #1 (Shirogami 1)
- Cladding: Iron
- Finish: Kurouchi (Black Finish)
- Edge Grind: Even
- Handle: Ho Wood Oval
- Ferrule: Plastic
- Weight: 2.8 oz (80g)
- Blade Length: 136mm
- Total Length: 265mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 3mm
- Blade Height: 41mm
