I saw your post called first blood.

If you got cut that easy from the razor I would assume it's shave ready.

As for which side to use I think it's the more angled side of the razor that should be on your face.

I could be wrong since I don't use a Japanese razor myself.

I know there is a video of a guy shaving with the Japanese razor kicking around here somewhere.

But as always someone with more experience will be here to correct any of my mistakes and offer more advice.