Nihonto Blog

Kantei Japanese sword identification jihada hamon analysis - Tokyo Nihonto

Kantei for Beginners: How to Attribute an Unsig...

Learn the 5-step kantei method used by NBTHK experts to identify unsigned nihonto. Step-by-step guide: sugata, jihada, hamon, boshi, nakago. With school reference table.

Kantei for Beginners: How to Attribute an Unsig...

Learn the 5-step kantei method used by NBTHK experts to identify unsigned nihonto. Step-by-step guide: sugata, jihada, hamon, boshi, nakago. With school reference table.

Best nihonto value $3000-$8000 authentic katana collection - Tokyo Nihonto

The $3,000-$8,000 Nihonto Sweet Spot: Best Valu...

Where the smart money goes in nihonto collecting. Specific schools, periods, and smiths that deliver the best authentic Japanese sword value between $3,000 and $8,000 in 2026.

The $3,000-$8,000 Nihonto Sweet Spot: Best Valu...

Where the smart money goes in nihonto collecting. Specific schools, periods, and smiths that deliver the best authentic Japanese sword value between $3,000 and $8,000 in 2026.

Showato vs Gendaito WW2 Japanese sword comparison - Tokyo Nihonto

Showato vs Gendaito: Is Your WW2 Japanese Sword...

Learn how to identify if your WW2 Japanese sword is a showato (machine-made) or gendaito (traditionally forged). Step-by-step guide with hot stamps, hamon analysis, and current values.

Showato vs Gendaito: Is Your WW2 Japanese Sword...

Learn how to identify if your WW2 Japanese sword is a showato (machine-made) or gendaito (traditionally forged). Step-by-step guide with hot stamps, hamon analysis, and current values.

Japanese sword scholar examining an antique katana with an authentication certificate — ukiyo-e style illustration

NBTHK Certificate Guide: Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon...

NBTHK Certificate Guide: Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon, Juyo, and What They Actually Mean Quick Summary The NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai) is Japan's authoritative body for authenticating and grading antique...

NBTHK Certificate Guide: Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon...

NBTHK Certificate Guide: Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon, Juyo, and What They Actually Mean Quick Summary The NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai) is Japan's authoritative body for authenticating and grading antique...

NBTHK shinsa submission process - judges examining a katana blade | Tokyo Nihonto

How to Submit a Blade for NBTHK Shinsa: Process...

Quick Summary A collector outside Japan cannot submit directly to the NBTHK. You need a licensed Japanese agent or dealer to handle the submission on your behalf. The fee for...

How to Submit a Blade for NBTHK Shinsa: Process...

Quick Summary A collector outside Japan cannot submit directly to the NBTHK. You need a licensed Japanese agent or dealer to handle the submission on your behalf. The fee for...

Authentic nihonto katana - Custom Katana Price: Real Nihonto Commission Cost | Tokyo Nihonto

Custom Katana Price: Real Nihonto Commission Co...

TL;DR: The difference between a $3,000 and a $30,000 nihonto isn't obvious until you know exactly what to look for. A real custom katana made in Japan by a licensed...

Custom Katana Price: Real Nihonto Commission Co...

TL;DR: The difference between a $3,000 and a $30,000 nihonto isn't obvious until you know exactly what to look for. A real custom katana made in Japan by a licensed...