The forging and shaping of the katana is a delicate process, instrumental to the functionality of the weapon. Still, this Japanese sword is far from complete and may pass through a number of hands before it is deemed battle-worthy. Polishing the Katana Blade After the forging process, the swordsmith polishes the blade or passes it […]
The hamon is the visual, patterned effect created on the blade of a Japanese katana by the hardening process. It is a symbol of the swordsmith’s craftsmanship and adds significant aesthetic value to the weapon. “The swordsmith was not a mere artisan but an inspired artist and his workshop a sanctuary. Daily he commenced his […]
The formation of the Japanese katana is a true form of art, beautifully constructed to withstand the chaos of battle. It has been used by warrior classes across ages to protect the warrior to its highest potential in the heat of combat. The process from sand to shape is complex and requires an experienced swordsmith to forge […]
“The sword is the soul of the samurai.” – Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu Shinobi are known for their use of a wide variety of weapons. Arguably one of the most recognizable is the traditional katana. The katana is the long bladed sword that was popularized by the samurai warrior in feudal Japan as early as the 15th […]
Swordsmanship is a deeply integral part of Japanese culture and a unique form of artistry. This ancient art form is so embedded in the region’s history that weapons meeting the highest standards of craftsmanship are deemed national treasures. The Japanese sword is also a central part of many Japanese martial arts. This includes Ninjustu amongst […]
