Debated whether to purchase a 9.5 inch blade, but ended up caving in.  Glad I did.  The longer blade gives me plenty of surface area to prep for meals fast and efficiently.  VG10 steel is  60 on the Rockwell scale, which helps keep the nice sharp edge I was attracted to.
Made in Seki Japan, manufactured in the Japanese tradition, with 64 layers protecting the inner core, and creating a lovely pattern on the blade.  The Kaizen is hand honed in the Honbazuke tradition and is incredibly sharp.  The traditional D shaped handle, is easy on the hand, and offers a comfortable and secure grip.
Love using this knife.