The Ancient Techniques and Spirit of the Japanese Sword - A Modern Challenge Part Two

Kinki, Chugoku and Shkoku regional branches of the All Japan Swordsmith Association videotaped the orgeing of a Sue-Bizen style sword of Osafune, a town famous for sword making employing traditional methods.

The Japanese sword is artistic craftwork based on fanctional beauty that has  developed over a period of more than 1,000 years. The beauty in the well-honed shape of the sword is the straightforward expression of teh noble and powerful spirit of the warrior, and the pure and bright spirit of the Japanese people.

Although the public can visit art galleries and museums to see swrods that have been completed, there are few opportunities for them to see what modern swordsmiths have brought down from the past generations.

It is our great hope that many people will have the opportunity to view this video to witness the entire process of swordmaking, from the first step, the creation of Tamahagane, to the final polishing of the copleted sowrd, and deepen their understanding of the beauty of the Japanese sword and the skills required to create it.

We also hope this video project will play a part in the passing down of the traditional craftsmanship of Japanese sword making. We hope that as many people as possible will have a chance to see this video.

August, 2007

Sadatoshi Gasssan

President, All Japan Swordsmith Association