Coordinating Nihonto Restoration: A Complete Guide to Polish, Scabbard Repair, and Metal Fittings Work — Costs and Process

Identifying When Restoration Is Needed

Key checkpoints when assessing a nihonto's condition include: edge chipping (can polishing address it?), surface rust (light patina vs. deep corrosion requiring full polish), haziness and dullness, hike (fine scratches from inadequate previous polishing), scabbard damage (cracks, warping, lacquer failure), and loose handle fittings (a safety concern requiring immediate attention).

The Craftsmen Involved

Togishi (polisher): Removes rust and scratches while enhancing the hamon through multiple polishing stages, culminating in nugui (final finishing). Since polishing removes material, it should only be performed when truly necessary.

Sayashi (scabbard maker): Crafts and repairs saya, from wood shaping through lacquering and decoration. Some handle complete koshirae repairs; others subcontract lacquer work.

Kinko-shi (metal fittings craftsman): Repairs and creates new tsuba, fuchi-kashira, and menuki. Antique fitting restoration requires specialized skills.

Tsukamaki-shi (handle wrapper): Rewraps handle cord when it becomes worn or loose. Many sayashi now handle this work as well.

Cost Estimates (2026)

Full polishing: ¥300,000–¥1,000,000+; cosmetic polish: ¥50,000–¥200,000; new scabbard: ¥100,000–¥500,000+; handle rewrapping: ¥30,000–¥100,000. Wait times for renowned polishers can extend to several years.

Prioritization and Coordination

Safety-critical work (deep advancing rust, loose mekugi, cracked saya risking blade exposure) takes absolute priority. Aesthetic issues like faded handle cord can wait. For most private collectors, working through a trusted dealer who coordinates all craftsmen is the most reliable approach, as direct craftsman access is often difficult and mistakes by inexperienced owners can cause irreversible damage.