Hatsu - Kokoro means innocent spirit. A very important wholesaler from Amagasaki city in Hyogo prefecture cooperating with some of the best craftsmen in Japan. The Hatsukokoro brand is their house brand, crafted from undisclosed but some of the most experienced blacksmiths. This Damascus Series are hand forged by Satoshi Nakagawa who is the disciple of the legendary Kenichi Shiraki and is now considered among the top 5 blacksmiths in Japan. Sharpened by another legend, Morigiro San so we have here a killer combination. Made by Blue-1 (Aogami-1) steel, one of the hardest steels in Japanese knife making, with high edge retention. Features a beautiful octagonal Wa handle made by Ebony. The Yanagiba (meaning willow leaf blade) is the traditional Japanese Sashimi knife. Used mainly to cut thin slices of fish without damaging the cells of the delicate fish protein. It can also be used for meat. The 270mm size is the most common for medium to big pieces of fillets. Important Note: This is a Carbon Steel knife and not a stainless one. Requires attention and care in its maintenance like quick washing and drying after use, storing in low humidity area and application of mineral oil if not used for some time. Over time it will form a patina that will protect it from rust. In case rust appears, use baking soda on wet blade, leave it for 10 mins and rub carefully with your finger or a soft sponge. In case rust is not removed, contact us for further instructions.