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Totsuka-no-Tsurugi: The System of Divine Swords in the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki, and Their Influence on Historical Japanese Swords

An explanation of the system of mythological swords, beginning with the Totsuka-no-Tsurugi (Ten-Fist Sword) that appears in Japan's founding myths. Covers the types, names, and mythological roles of major divine swords in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, archaeological and ritual connections to historical swords, and the long-term influence of mythological swords on the spirituality and design of Japanese swords.

A Century of Japanese Sword Culture in the Early Edo Period: From the Battle of Sekigahara to the Eve of the Genroku Era

A comprehensive overview of the transformation of sword culture during the first century of the Edo period, from the founding of the Tokugawa shogunate to the transition to civil governance.

Sword Culture in the Genbun, Enkyo, and Kannen Eras (1736-1750): Kenjutsu Popularity and Samurai Sword Customs under Shogun Ieshige

Han-tachi Koshirae: Structure, History, and Surviving Examples of This Court-Style Ceremonial Sword Mounting

Forge Cracks in Nihonto: Causes, Prevention, and Swordsmith Countermeasures for Steel Cracking During Tanren

Armor and Swords — How Tachi, Katana, and Wakizashi Were Carried and Used

An explanation of how samurai actually carried swords in battle during the Sengoku period, examining the relationship between kogusoku, koshigatana, uchigatana, and wakizashi.

The World of Kumihimo and Sageo Craftsmen: Techniques, Materials, Dyeing Processes, and Modern Demand for Sword Braiding Artisans

An exploration of the specialized techniques, material selection, dyeing processes, and modern demand for kumihimo artisans who create sageo and decorative cords for Japanese swords.

The Onin-Bunmei War and the Japanese Sword Industry: How a Decade of Conflict Dispersed Bizen Swordsmiths

International Shipping of Japanese Swords: Packaging, Customs Declarations, Import Regulations, and Safe Delivery Practices

A comprehensive guide to the legal procedures and practical aspects of shipping Japanese swords internationally, including packaging, customs, and import regulations.

History of Nihonto Publishing and Media: From Specialist Books and Catalogs to Digital Transformation

Fold Count in Tamahagane Forging: How 15 vs 20 Folds Affect Jihada Texture and Hamon Quality

The Physics of Sori: How Residual Stress, Martensite Transformation, and Differential Cooling Create the Curve of Japanese Swords

A scientific explanation of why Japanese swords develop their characteristic curve (sori), examining residual stress, martensitic transformation, and differential cooling rates.