I need to add a little comment on the Misono Dragon which is the most frequently used knife in my kitchen. I have other knives, more expensive ones, more beautiful ones, Shigs, DT ITK, Hattori KDs, Hiromoto AS, but still I reach for the Dragon most of the times. Why? It is a great cutter, a workhorse. It isn't too expensive. I have more respect from my other blades, meaning ruining one of the other blades would probably make me cry like a baby. I do not have that fear with the Dragon...
Have I said that it is the hell of a great cutter? F&F are perfect, and the patina it takes is beautiful! Only disadvantage: only available with a Western handle.