New Arrivals — An authentic masterwork by the creator of the legendary Tonbokiri is now available. Browse →
Insights into Japanese sword knowledge and culture
The shinshinto era of the early 19th century was a period of sword-making renaissance, driven by reverence for ancient swords and a sense of crisis in the age. This article examines the achievements of masters such as Suishinshi Masahide and Taikei Naotane, and the historical context that shaped them.
Yamato, Yamashiro, Bizen, Soshu, and Mino — exploring the characteristics and history of the five great sword-making traditions.
A guide to the NBTHK appraisal system: what Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon, Juyo, and Tokubetsu Juyo grades mean and their impact on value.
Uchiko powder, choji oil, and nugui paper — tools and proper procedures for maintaining Japanese swords.
For first-time buyers: how to set a budget, what to look for, and how to identify trustworthy dealers.
Legal procedures for shipping swords from Japan: METI export permit applications and import regulations by country.
Suguha, midare, choji, gunome — types of hamon and how to appreciate them, explained for beginners.
Masamune, Muramasa, Kotetsu, Osafune Kanemitsu — the lives and styles of history's greatest swordsmiths.
The history of tsuba as sword fittings, and techniques of master metalworkers: Shoami, Goto, and Yokoya Somin.
Exploring Japanese swords as assets: historical price trends, what makes a sword appreciate, risks and considerations.
Swords beloved by Date Masamune, the lineage of Sendai domain smiths — sword history through the lens of our home city.
Kondo's Kotetsu, Hijikata's Kanesada, Okita's Kiyomitsu — the stories of Shinsengumi warriors and their swords.