Hiroyasu Andō (born 1979, Okayama Prefecture; given name Yūsuke Andō) forges his blades at the workshop within the Bizen Osafune Japanese Sword Museum in Setouchi City, Okayama — one of the most storied addresses in the entire world of Japanese swords. Trained from 1998 under his father, the accomplished swordsmith Hirokiyo Andō, he has risen with remarkable speed to become one of the most decorated and talked-about swordsmiths of his generation.
His pursuit of the Bizen tradition is uncompromising. At the heart of his work is the quest to revive utsuri — the ethereal, mist-like reflection that drifts across the surface of the finest Kamakura-period Bizen blades, a phenomenon of such delicacy and complexity that it virtually vanished from modern swordmaking for centuries. That Andō has mastered it is beyond doubt: in 2022 and 2023, he claimed the Kanzanyshō — the supreme prize of the Gendaitō Shokutten, the most prestigious competition in contemporary Japanese swordmaking — in two consecutive years, a feat that placed him firmly at the pinnacle of his craft.
Yet Andō's vision extends well beyond the classical. His work with inji tetsu tō — blades forged from metallic meteorite — represents one of the most extraordinary experiments in modern swordmaking: steel not of this earth, shaped by human hands into the form of Japan's most sacred weapon. These blades are at once ancient and otherworldly, and they speak to a maker who refuses to be confined by convention.
He has also participated in the HITOFURI Project, an initiative to bring sword culture closer to everyday life, producing tamahagane letter openers in the form of miniature blades — objects that carry the spirit of the forge into the hands of a new generation. His work has been featured on NHK BS in the documentary series Tamahagane no Jūninin ("Twelve Masters of Tamahagane"), bringing his craft to a national television audience.
On social media, Andō shares his daily work with warmth and openness, guided by a simple philosophy: "Enjoy the craft — and give children a dream."
Awards & Recognition
Gendaitō Shokutten (Contemporary Swordsmith Exhibition):
Forging steel born in the stars, reviving the lost mysteries of Kamakura, and opening the forge doors to the next generation — Hiroyasu Andō is redefining what it means to be a swordsmith in the modern age.
The quality of the blade and the simplicity of the shirasaya mount truly reflect traditional Japanese mastery. A beautiful and meaningful addition to my collection.
The natural wood finish and clean design highlight the beauty of the blade perfectly. Exactly what I was looking for.
¥310,000 ¥370,000
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Every blade reflects generations of knowledge, discipline, and precision passed down through traditional Japanese swordmaking. From the forging of steel to the final finishing touches, each piece is shaped with patience, mastery, and deep respect for heritage.
From carefully selected materials to the refined finishing of every surface, each sword is crafted and presented with uncompromising attention to detail. Our commitment to authenticity ensures every piece reflects true tradition, lasting quality, and enduring cultural value.
Designed with balance, simplicity, and purpose, our blades embody the harmony between refined form and skilled craftsmanship. Each sword represents a thoughtful union of strength, elegance, and the timeless discipline of Japanese artisans.
