Yoshimi Kato is one of the most respected blacksmiths working in Echizen, Japan today, known for exceptional fit and finish, outstanding heat treatment, and a level of precision that sets his work apart from the broader field. The Hino line is a custom collaboration created exclusively for Chef Knives To Go. The name Hino comes from the river that flows through Echizen — a fitting tribute to the region that has shaped Kato-san and his craft. These knives represent a unique opportunity to own a purpose-built blade from one of Japan most accomplished makers at an accessible price point.
This bunka is built around a White #2 carbon steel core hardened to 61 HRC — Shirogami #2, prized for its purity, fine grain structure, and ability to take an exceptionally keen edge that sharpens easily and responds beautifully to stones. The stainless cladding keeps the upper portion of the blade low-maintenance while leaving the reactive edge to perform at its full carbon steel potential. The basketweave finish on the cladding is visually stunning and adds a subtle texture that improves grip during a pinch hold. The D-shaped sandalwood handle with black pakka wood ferrule is comfortable and well balanced, and the laser engraving adds a final touch of refinement. One note from customers worth passing along — the spine carries a small exposed section of reactive steel, so wipe it dry after use along with the edge.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers are immediately struck by the fit and finish, calling it just perfect and noting that the basketweave texture provides a surprisingly useful grip during a pinch hold. The White #2 edge arrives sharp out of the box, develops a patina quickly with use, and holds up impressively through multiple meal preps. Even a left-handed user found the D-shaped handle comfortable and largely unobtrusive with a pinch grip. The overall consensus is that this knife delivers well above its price in performance, beauty, and build quality.
Care Instructions:
White #2 carbon steel is reactive and will develop a natural patina with use — this is normal and helps protect the steel. Wipe the blade and spine clean during use and dry thoroughly immediately after washing. Avoid leaving water or acidic foods on the blade. A light coat of camellia oil is recommended for long-term storage. Hand wash only.
This bunka is built around a White #2 carbon steel core hardened to 61 HRC — Shirogami #2, prized for its purity, fine grain structure, and ability to take an exceptionally keen edge that sharpens easily and responds beautifully to stones. The stainless cladding keeps the upper portion of the blade low-maintenance while leaving the reactive edge to perform at its full carbon steel potential. The basketweave finish on the cladding is visually stunning and adds a subtle texture that improves grip during a pinch hold. The D-shaped sandalwood handle with black pakka wood ferrule is comfortable and well balanced, and the laser engraving adds a final touch of refinement. One note from customers worth passing along — the spine carries a small exposed section of reactive steel, so wipe it dry after use along with the edge.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers are immediately struck by the fit and finish, calling it just perfect and noting that the basketweave texture provides a surprisingly useful grip during a pinch hold. The White #2 edge arrives sharp out of the box, develops a patina quickly with use, and holds up impressively through multiple meal preps. Even a left-handed user found the D-shaped handle comfortable and largely unobtrusive with a pinch grip. The overall consensus is that this knife delivers well above its price in performance, beauty, and build quality.
Care Instructions:
White #2 carbon steel is reactive and will develop a natural patina with use — this is normal and helps protect the steel. Wipe the blade and spine clean during use and dry thoroughly immediately after washing. Avoid leaving water or acidic foods on the blade. A light coat of camellia oil is recommended for long-term storage. Hand wash only.
- Blacksmith: Yoshimi Kato
- Brand Name: Yoshimi Hino
- Location: Echizen, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: White #2 Carbon Steel (Shirogami #2)
- Cladding: Stainless Steel
- HRC: 61
- Finish: Basket Weave
- Edge Grind: Even, 50/50
- Handle: D-Shaped Sandalwood
- Ferrule: Black Pakka Wood
- Engraving: Laser
- Weight: 4.6 oz (130 g)
- Blade Length: 173 mm
- Total Length: 313 mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm
- Blade Height: 47 mm
Reviews
2 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Yoshimi Hine White # Bunka Posted By: Jim K
32 people found this review helpful
This knife is a winner. The fit and finish is just perfect. I was worried the handle being D-shaped would not be comfortable for me being a lefty but I find it to be very comfortable and not to noticeable with a pinch grip. The edge is very sharp out of the box. It's just a great performer.
32 people found this review helpful
This knife is a winner. The fit and finish is just perfect. I was worried the handle being D-shaped would not be comfortable for me being a lefty but I find it to be very comfortable and not to noticeable with a pinch grip. The edge is very sharp out of the box. It's just a great performer.
High performing knife with great fit and finish!Posted By: Garchtoto
34 people found this review helpful
This Bunka from Yoshimi Kato is phenomenal! It's very light and nimble yet very precise. The white #2 steel is very reactive and started to patina after one use. It was very sharp out of the box and has held its sharpness even after for a few meal preps. Handle is a D shape handle and feels great in hand. For the price, you are getting a lot of knife. Edges are nicely rounded and the fit and finish is great. The texture on it is very unique and I found that it provided extra texture for a pinch grip. You can see on the spine that the stainless doesn't completely cover the reactive steel so be careful with the spine being exposed to reactive liquids . Yoshimi Kato definitely put out a banger with this knife! Highly recommend it.
34 people found this review helpful
This Bunka from Yoshimi Kato is phenomenal! It's very light and nimble yet very precise. The white #2 steel is very reactive and started to patina after one use. It was very sharp out of the box and has held its sharpness even after for a few meal preps. Handle is a D shape handle and feels great in hand. For the price, you are getting a lot of knife. Edges are nicely rounded and the fit and finish is great. The texture on it is very unique and I found that it provided extra texture for a pinch grip. You can see on the spine that the stainless doesn't completely cover the reactive steel so be careful with the spine being exposed to reactive liquids . Yoshimi Kato definitely put out a banger with this knife! Highly recommend it.
