Nihonto Blog
Shinshintō Swords: Japan's Sword Revival Collec...
TL;DR: Shinshintō swords (1781–1876) represent Japan's deliberate sword revival, when master smiths set out to recapture the techniques of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods. The greatest names, Taikei Naotane, Minamoto...
Shinshintō Swords: Japan's Sword Revival Collec...
TL;DR: Shinshintō swords (1781–1876) represent Japan's deliberate sword revival, when master smiths set out to recapture the techniques of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods. The greatest names, Taikei Naotane, Minamoto...
Gokaden: The Five Japanese Sword Schools
Quick Summary The Gokaden are the five classical schools of Japanese swordsmithing that emerged between the Heian and Muromachi periods, each tied to a specific region, forging philosophy, and set...
Gokaden: The Five Japanese Sword Schools
Quick Summary The Gokaden are the five classical schools of Japanese swordsmithing that emerged between the Heian and Muromachi periods, each tied to a specific region, forging philosophy, and set...
Japanese Sword Polishing Guide: When Your Nihon...
Quick Summary Most antique nihonto do not need polishing. If your blade has minor surface scratches, a healthy shine, and a clearly visible hamon, leave it alone. Unnecessary polishing removes...
Japanese Sword Polishing Guide: When Your Nihon...
Quick Summary Most antique nihonto do not need polishing. If your blade has minor surface scratches, a healthy shine, and a clearly visible hamon, leave it alone. Unnecessary polishing removes...
Nihonto Investment: What Determines If a Sword ...
Real price data on nihonto investment by certification tier, swordsmiths that appreciate, liquidity risks, and a 2026 market comparison table.
Nihonto Investment: What Determines If a Sword ...
Real price data on nihonto investment by certification tier, swordsmiths that appreciate, liquidity risks, and a 2026 market comparison table.
Tanto Buyer's Guide: Authentic Japanese Daggers...
Quick Summary An authentic Japanese tanto (短刀) is a traditionally forged Japanese dagger with a blade under 30 cm, produced by a licensed Japanese swordsmith using tamahagane steel. Verified pieces...
Tanto Buyer's Guide: Authentic Japanese Daggers...
Quick Summary An authentic Japanese tanto (短刀) is a traditionally forged Japanese dagger with a blade under 30 cm, produced by a licensed Japanese swordsmith using tamahagane steel. Verified pieces...
How to Display Your Katana: Stands, Cases, and ...
TL;DR A proper display setup for an authentic nihonto is not optional decor. It directly affects the long-term condition of the saya lacquer, the habaki, and the blade itself. For...
How to Display Your Katana: Stands, Cases, and ...
TL;DR A proper display setup for an authentic nihonto is not optional decor. It directly affects the long-term condition of the saya lacquer, the habaki, and the blade itself. For...