Gokaden – the five great swordsmithing traditions of Japan. Yamashiro, Yamato, Bizen, Sōshū & Mino: history, characteristics & original blades…

⏱ 13 Min. reading time

Japanese swordsmithing: how a katana is made from black iron sand. Tamahagane, hamon & master smiths explained – with original…

⏱ 11 Min. reading time

The tachi – the long sword of the Heian samurai. History, manner of wear, gokaden & the path to the…

⏱ 14 Min. reading time

The dō – the heart of every samurai armour. From Heian lamellae to the bulletproof Sengoku cuirass: history, types &…

⏱ 14 Min. reading time

The kabuto – protection, identity, and work of art in one. History, anatomy & smithing traditions of the samurai helmet.…

⏱ 14 Min. reading time

The Katana: History, Forging Technique & 5 Myths Debunked. What is really true about the most famous sword in the…

⏱ 27 Min. reading time