Shapton is a reputable manufacturer of sharpening stones based in Tochigi, Japan. They specialize in producing stylish and non-soaking type stones, making them a leader in the industry.

Shapton Kuromaku Professional stones rival Naniwa Gouken Arata stones, making them an excellent alternative for achieving great results. These non-soaking stones are known for their fast-cutting and slow-wearing abilities, making them ideal for extended use without needing to flaten so often. They are one of the highly sought after Japanese synthetic whetstones in both Japan and abroad.

Unless you are a heavy user, the stones' thickness is sufficient to withstand decades of use.

It comes in a plastic case that can be used as a stone base allowing a sufficient knuckle clearance from the bench while sharpening. 

Popular Shapton Professional #1000 grit stones come and go very quickly.
Their #1000 are probably the most popular and selling stones in the Japanase whetstones market because it cuts really fast for #1000 grit. In fact, we feel it is actually coarser than the average #1000 stones and the look of the finish on the blades appears to be coarser to us as well. There are a few youtube videos, blogs, and groups out there reporting the similar opinions. If their #1000 grit stones are out of stock and you are after something equivalent, you may want to try their rival Naniwa Gouken Arata #600, which we believe is very similar feel, finish, and performance! 

Water Requirement:
It is manufactured in magnesia method, so is a non-soaking stone aka splash and go.  The Shapton Pro stones are always ready when you need sharpening. Please read Care and Use.