This article reveals imitation Japanese swords, often mass-produced overseas. Learn to distinguish them from authentic *nihonto* and *katana* via production insights. You'll grasp why genuine craftsmanship is vital. 1. What Defines an Authentic Japanese Sword? Simply put, Japanese swords or...
What are Japanese swords? Simply put, Japanese swords or katana are made by a unique Japanese blacksmithing method and are assumed to have been crafted in Japan, but a Japanese sword cannot merely be characterized as a weapon. It has...
Why focus on Mei? Many Japanese swords have inscriptions on the tang. It is recorded that in the Nara period (710-794), a swordsmith’s name was required by law to be inscribed on the tang. However, it is said that the...
Fake swords apparently started being made around the Kamakura period. In the Muromachi period there was already a “certificate of authenticity” which included an inscription on the tang of the words and a description of the blade. In the Edo...
The katana Sadatoyo made looks amazing and is definitely worth the price. I am glad I chose him as the blacksmith, and will enjoy displaying and staring at this masterpiece for years to come.