Katana Knives, Okayama Soja Houcho, Tamahagane Santoku Knife, 180mm
Using high-carbon stainless steel 'AUS10' as the core, the blade is clad with 44 layers of soft stainless steel—22 on each side—and polished to a semi-mirror finish. 'AUS10' offers excellent hardness and durability, delivering outstanding sharpness.
Product Size: 12.80 inches
Blade Length: 7.1 inches
Product Weight: 0.32 lbs
Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel, Polished Damascus
Handle Material: Japanese Oak/Lacquer finish
Katana Knives, Okayama Soja Houcho, Tamahagane Santoku Knife, 180mm
Bitchū Sōja, located in western Okayama Prefecture, is a place where the legends of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto—said to be the model for the Momotarō tale—and the demon god Ura are still told. The ruins of Ura’s stronghold, Kinojō Castle, remain to this day.
With a sword museum in Sōja City, this region has preserved its sword-making culture since the Kamakura period. Bitchū Sōja Knives are masterpieces, forged by artisans who inherit this tradition, and craft each blade like a single Japanese sword.
At age 30, Tomioka Yoshimasa began his apprenticeship under master swordsmith Matsuba Kunimasa and joined the Japan Swordsmiths Association in 2019. The following year, he won the Newcomer’s Award at the Contemporary Swordsmith Exhibition—Japan’s premier event for Japanese swords. In 2023, he received the Special Prize at the same exhibition, and has since earned numerous accolades, continuing to demonstrate his skill as a swordsmith.
From a modern perspective, the making of Japanese swords appears inefficient and highly demanding. Yet by embracing this path without hesitation and forging the steel with his full dedication, Tomioka Yoshimasa discovers both the essence and pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship. It is with this conviction that he dedicates himself to swordmaking each and every day.
TOMIOKA
YOSHIMASA
富岡慶正
About the Handle
The handle of Katana Knives is made from the rare, premium wood Macassar Ebony. Hard and highly durable, polishing brings out its deep, lustrous shine. Its elegant grain shines in the seamless, ferrule-free design, naturally enhancing the blade’s beauty. The octagonal handle fits comfortably in the hand, providing a secure, slip-resistant grip, while a black resin ring adds a sophisticated accent.
