Jōkyōji whetstones were produced in Jōkyōji Town and Teranaka Town in Fukui Prefecture. They came to be known as “Jōkyōji whetstones” because, at the time of discovery, larger quantities and higher-quality stones were mined on the Jōkyōji side. It is said that a samurai named Kitagawa, a retainer of Yoshikage Asakura (1533–1573), the lord of Ichijōdani Castle, discovered these stones. Later, a merchant named Hamakiya from Osaka began mining them, but a landslide eventually halted operations. In the Meiji era (1868-1912), Yoshizo Yoshida from Jōkyōji cleared the debris and resumed mining. Then, in Taisho 15 (1926), Yoshida Toshio, the third-generation member of the Yoshida family, secured a 10-year mining right, invested capital, and engaged in the mining operations. There were three types of Jōkyōji whetstones: Akatō (red stone), Shiratō (white stone), and Urumitō(soft sheen?). These stones were used for sharpening carpentry tools and swords, but by the Meiji era, high-quality stones suitable for sword sharpening were no longer being produced. After that, stones such as Iyo whetstones, Binsui, and Kaiseitō came to be used for sword polishing. During a flood of the Jōkyōji River in 2004, a large number of whetstone fragments appeared along the riverbank; however, they were of lower quality.

The stone in the photo corresponds to the previously mentioned Akatō (red whetstone).The sharpening feel of this whetstone is very unique; it produces a black slurry, but in small quantities, giving a tight, refined sensation that even feels similar to sharpening with a synthetic stone.

-Dimension & Weight 

70mm x 158-163mm x 47mm / 1086g 

-Hardness: 3.5 /  Grit below 2000

- Excellent stone for carpentry tools, could be for sword

Please check the pictures and don't hesitate to ask any questions about the item ! 

Thank you.