Kaneda Shichiro Kunizane

Kaneda Shichiro Kunizane is a contemporary swordsmith active from the late Heisei era into the Reiwa era, who has established a distinctive personal style through deep study of the classical Bizen and Sagami traditions. The working name Kunizane—meaning 'true sword'—reflects his commitment to forging blades faithful to historical ideals. He is known for meticulous forging of ko-itame jigane with finely textured jinie, taking considerable time at each stage. His preferred hamon of gunome and notare demonstrates a harmonious integration of modern materials and classical technique, earning recognition in NBTHK evaluations. Regular participation in domestic sword exhibitions and the Shinsakutō-ten has established him as a rising voice among contemporary Japanese swordsmiths.