Modern Swordsmiths — Bladesmiths Keeping the Tradition Alive in the Reiwa Era
About 200 Agency for Cultural Affairs-licensed swordsmiths are active in Japan today, continuing to forge blades using traditional tamahagane steel.
Modern sword regulations: Under the 1958 Firearms and Swords Control Law, production of Japanese swords as art objects is permitted. Becoming a licensed smith requires 5+ years of apprenticeship and government certification.
Securing tamahagane: Tamahagane produced by the tatara iron-smelting operation in Shimane's Okuizumo is essential raw material. Only limited quantities are produced in annual operations.
New Sword Exhibition: The annual Shinsaku Meito Exhibition is where modern smiths compete. Awards including the Agency for Cultural Affairs Commissioner's Prize and Masamune Prize bring great honor.
Value of modern swords: Fine modern swords range from ¥1-5 million, offering a more accessible entry to authentic Japanese swords compared to antiques. Being new, their preservation state is perfect.
Tradition must not only be preserved but evolved for new eras. Modern swordsmiths embody exactly that.