I didn't know much about Japanese knives but after seeing this knife I needed to know why I should add it to my collection. I was attracted by the beautiful and handle, but then to learn It had 100 layers of steel covering the core I realized this was a knife that would last a lifetime.  SO comfortable to use, and the sharpness is like no other knife I have.  I look forward to using this knife every time I need to work in the kitchen.