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Minonokuni Knives
Authentic Japanese blades (hochoes) hand-forged using traditional Japanese methods of old-world craftsmanship; Minonokuni knives are part of a project designed to preserve and protect the master/apprentice relationship. Even as demand for Japanese knives has grown; the skilled masters are aging, and it has been difficult to keep apprentices. While the methods of construction mastered over the centuries have changed very little, the methods of bringing the pieces to market is dramatically different. Then Knife Merchant was asked to assist by bringing knives from various masters in different types of material to market, so that the craftsmen can concentrate on their work and keep the apprentice fully employed, without the burden of stopping production to make sales. Minonokuni is the name of a prefecture (state) that existed in the days of the Samurai. It encompassed a wide area including Seki-City and Sakai, which are the areas of Japan in which our craftsmen are making these blades. This is why we have chosen this as a brand name to represent these knives. You will find the quality to be far superior to comparable material types. When the knife maker has his name on the blade (instead of working for a company), there is greater pride and care taken in little details that make a great difference in final quality. Minonokuni knives are now available in a variety of grades to suit every need and price point.
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Minonokuni Sakura Damascus 270mm Yanagi
The Minonokuni Sakura Damascus 270mm Yanagiba is a refined expression of traditional Japanese knife craftsmanship, purpose-built for the art of sashimi and sushi preparation. Designed for clean, uninterrupted pull cuts, this long, slender blade allows proteins to be sliced with exceptional precision, preserving texture, flavor, and presentation. Forged from Shirogami (White Steel) Damascus, the blade delivers outstanding sharpness and edge responsiveness, prized by professional chefs for its ability to take a razor-fine edge with ease. The elegant Damascus cladding showcases subtle flowing patterns, inspired by “Sakura” (cherry blossoms)—a nod to the fleeting beauty and craftsmanship rooted in Japanese tradition. Hardened to HRC 60–62, the blade balances keen cutting performance with controlled toughness. The traditional Urasuki chisel grind creates a slight hollow on the blade face, reducing drag and ensuring smooth, effortless release during long slicing motions—an essential feature for precise fish work. At 270mm, the yanagiba’s extended length excels at single-pass cuts through larger fillets, minimizing cell damage and delivering pristine results. Finished with a Red Sandalwood wa-handle, the knife offers a warm, comfortable grip and excellent balance, complementing the blade’s refined performance with understated elegance. Handcrafted in Japan, the Minonokuni Sakura Damascus Yanagiba is an exceptional choice for chefs and dedicated enthusiasts who value tradition, sharpness, and uncompromising slicing performance. Learn More$648.00
