The Beauty of Japanese Swords: Famous Masterpieces (2024)

Episode 1 - A Most Elegant Weapon

January 26, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, one of the "five greatest swords under heaven": Mikazuki Munechika.


Episode 2 - The Japanese Aesthetic

January 27, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, a perfect distillation of craftsmanship: Gunchomon Hyogo-gusari no Tachi.


Episode 3 - A Demon-cutting Sword

January 27, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, Yasutsuna, or Onikirimaru, a blade that was used to defeat a terrible demon.


Episode 4 - Cutting-edge Patterns

January 28, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, a powerful weapon with a beautiful hamon: Daihannya Nagamitsu.


Episode 5 - Steel Works of Art

January 29, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, a blade wielded by Miyamoto Musashi, the world's most famous swordsman: Musashi Masamune.


Episode 6 - The Power of a God

January 29, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, a sword made by Kuniyuki that is imbued with the power of the deity Fudo-myo-o.


Episode 7 - Invocatory Carvings

January 29, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, Hotei Kunihiro, a sword conveying a swordsmith's wish for peace.


Episode 8 - A Shogun's Treasure

January 29, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, a famous swordsmith's blade that was cherished by the shoguns who ruled Edo-period Japan.


Episode 9 - A Colossal Sword

January 30, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, Odachi, a giant sword that showcases a swordsmith's astonishing expertise.


Episode 10 - Naginata-wielding Heroes

January 30, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, two naginata (polearms) associated with legendary warriors: Benkei and Tomoe Gozen.


Episode 11 - The Sword of Sincerity

January 30, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, Izumi no Kami Kanesada, the much-loved sword of Hijikata Toshizo, the "Shogun's last samurai."


Episode 12 - The Strategist's Blade

January 31, 2024 • 5 minutes

This time, two towering reputations are brought together in one truly special blade: Kaishu Kotetsu.