Yanagi ba


Yanagi-ba-bōchō, yanagi ba, or yanagi, is a long and thin knife used in the Japanese cuisine. It is the typical example of the sashimi bōchō used to prepare sashimi and nigiri sushi.
When preparing sashimi and nigiri sushi, the goal is usually to have cut surfaces that are smooth, shiny, and even in order to maximize the taste. The construction of the yanagi ba is designed for this purpose.
The first two characteristics are particularly for yanagi-ba-bocho, and its name 'yanagi' is from long and pliant characteristics of a willow branch. The other characteristics are shared by all knives in Japanese cuisine.
The important principle in using a yanagi ba to prepare sashimi is not cutting down but pulling with its long blade in a single motion.