Shiro Kamo Blue #2 Yoru Bunka 165mm

The word “Yoru” means “night” in Japanese, and this name matches the dark rustic finish found on this line of knives. Forged by master blacksmith Shiro Kamo in Echizen, the blades feature a traditional kurouchi finish over reactive carbon steel, giving them a classic look that develops character with use.

This santoku is made from Blue #2 (Aogami #2) carbon steel and hardened to around HRC 61. The steel is clad in softer stainless steel and finished in the forge — a san-mai construction that provides protection for the core while keeping the knife thin, sharp, and responsive on the cutting board. Blue #2 offers excellent sharpness and edge holding while still being relatively easy to maintain and sharpen on water stones.

The profile is compact and versatile, ideal for everyday prep such as chopping vegetables, slicing fruits, trimming meats, and general push-cutting. Like most Japanese knives in this hardness range, it is ground thin behind the edge to maximize cutting performance.

The knife is fitted with a walnut octagonal wa handle paired with a black pakka wood ferrule for durability and balance. Lightweight, easy to maneuver, and a great value from one of the well-respected blacksmiths of Takefu Knife Village.



Care Instructions

This is a thin, hard knife — avoid twisting, prying, or cutting very hard items (frozen food, bones, squash, coconuts, etc.)

Hand wash only — do not use a dishwasher

Dry thoroughly after each use; do not leave wet or soaking

Expect a patina to form over time — it helps protect the carbon steel

Avoid long contact with acidic foods like onions, citrus, and tomatoes

Store fully dry; apply a small amount of food-safe oil if storing long term

Sharpen only with water stones; avoid pull-through sharpeners or electric grinders

Specifications

Blacksmith: Shiro Kamo

Location: Echizen, Japan

Factory: Takefu Knife Village

Edge Grind: Double bevel (even)

Steel: Blue #2 (Aogami #2) carbon steel

Cladding: Stainless steel

Finish: Kurouchi (blacksmith finish)

Construction: San-mai, hammer forged

Knife Type: Santoku

Handle: Walnut, octagonal

Ferrule: Black pakka wood

Weight: 4.1 oz (116 g)

Edge Length: 175 mm

Total Length: 317 mm

Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm

Blade Height: 46 mm

Hardness: ~HRC 61