Compact, precise, and strikingly elegant, the Hado Bunka SG2 Shiosai Blue 180mm is a versatile Japanese kitchen knife designed for everyday preparation and professional use.

Shiosai (潮騒) is a poetic Japanese term meaning “the sound of the sea” or “the sound of waves,” reflected in the blade’s irregular tsuchime pattern, which evokes waves splashing across its surface. Beneath this distinctive finish lies a razor-sharp SG2 powder steel core, while the blue octagonal wa handle completes the knife’s refined appearance.

BLADE SHAPE:

The bunka is a compact Japanese knife, perfect for small kitchens and limited counter space without sacrificing performance. It features a distinctive angled tip, ideal for precise piercing and controlled cutting tasks: slicing, dicing, and mincing a variety of ingredients, including meat, fish, and vegetables, making it a highly functional tool for professional and home kitchens alike.

*The cutting edge measures 170mm (heel to tip), but the total blade length from handle to tip is 180mm.

STEEL:

This Bunka is made of SG2 powder steel, hardened to around 62-63 HRC. Powder steels are among the hardest steels used in knife making today, which means the knife will keep a smooth and sharp edge for an extremely long time. Thanks to its high chromium (Cr) content, the blade is remarkably easy to maintain. Its steel composition and microstructure allow for an extremely fine, smooth, and long-lasting edge.

LAMINATION:

The blade is san-mai laminated, with outer layers of softer stainless steel that provide additional rust protection.

BLADE FINISH:

Renowned for their elegance and precision, Hado knives feature distinctive tsuchime hammering that fades into a subtly misted migaki finish, highlighting the polished SG2 steel core. Every knife is paired with carefully designed packaging that reflects its craftsmanship.

HANDLE:

The knife features a traditional octagonal wa handle made from blue stabilized wood. During stabilization, resin is infused into the wood and cured, making the material denser, less absorbent, and more resistant to changes caused by moisture while retaining its natural grain. The deep blue colour gives each handle a distinctive appearance, while its octagonal shape provides a secure and comfortable grip for both right- and left-handed users.

SMITHY:

Hado is a young yet highly respected Japanese smithy from Sakai, founded in 2019 as a subsidiary of Fukui Co. & Ltd. Blending tradition, innovation, and the founders’ passion for the “path of the blade,” each knife reflects centuries of blacksmithing heritage, masterful handcraft, and modern respect for materials, ergonomics, and design. Hado is synonymous with Japanese precision, minimalist beauty, and pure craftsmanship.