Colonne

Restoring Koto: Assessing Wear and Preservation Before Re-polishing

Sword Retail Sourcing: Wholesale Trading Practices and Trust-Building

The Yakiiro Eye: Assessing Japanese Sword Quality, Hardness, and Heat Treatment

Learn how craftspeople assess heat treatment and hardness through yakiiro, the oxidation colors on a sword's edge, body, and spine.

Women Sword Dealers and Entrepreneurs in Japan's Nihonto Industry

Traditionally male-dominated, Japan's sword industry now sees rising female participation through the "sword enthusiast women" trend and online trading growth.

Authenticating Unsigned Swords: Practical Kantei Methods for Swordsmith Attribution

Tsurumaru Kuninaga: Imperial Treasure and Tenka Goken Legacy

This Tenka Goken blade, forged by Heian master Gojo no Kuninaga, was presented to Emperor Meiji and remains an Imperial Household treasure today.

Bizen Nagamitsu and Soshu Hodomichi: Sword Networks in the Age of Warfare

Dating Methods for Kofun-Period Excavated Swords — Stratigraphy, Associated Artifacts, and Inscriptions as Yardsticks of Japanese Sword History

Saya and Tsuka Craftsmanship: The Hidden Art of Scabbard and Handle Makers

Understanding Japanese Sword Authentication Certificates: NBTHK, NTHK, and How to Evaluate Blade Authenticity

Iaido, Kendo, Naginata: Choosing Practice Swords and Maintenance for Different Training Stages

A guide to choosing martial arts practice swords and maintenance for iaido, kendo, and naginata training stages

Sword Experience Tourism: From Boom to Hands-On Learning in Swordsmith Workshops