Private Experience – 1 Guest

Service Description

Experience Details The beauty of a Japanese sword is not created through polishing. Rather, it is revealed by the hands of a skilled togishi (Japanese sword polisher), using techniques that have been passed down through generations for centuries. In this workshop, you will experience that transformation firsthand and discover why Japanese swords have been admired as works of art for hundreds of years. The experience begins with an introduction to foundation polishing. After a demonstration by your instructor, you will learn the unique sitting posture and traditional techniques used by professional polishers before trying the process yourself. Next, you will take part in the finishing stages of artistic sword polishing. Working on a small section of a real blade (approximately 10 cm), you will experience almost every step of the traditional finishing process. As the work progresses, you will witness the blade's hidden beauty gradually emerge and gain a deeper understanding of distinctive features such as the hamon (temper line) and jihada (steel grain). Throughout the workshop, your instructor will explain the purpose of each step, answer your questions, and share insights gained through years of professional experience. No previous knowledge of Japanese swords is required, making this experience enjoyable for both beginners and enthusiasts. Unlike visiting a museum or watching a demonstration, this is a rare opportunity to learn directly from a professional togishi inside an authentic polishing studio and experience a traditional craft with your own hands. This is not simply a workshop about learning polishing techniques. It is an opportunity to gain a new way of seeing Japanese swords—one that allows you to recognize the beauty, craftsmanship, and artistry hidden within every blade. ※Guests may also wear traditional samue workwear during the experience upon request.