New Publications

An Introduction to Japanese Swords

Published in association with Japanese Airlines

With this book we aim to provide a brief introduction to the fascinating story of the Japanese sword. It gives an insight into the traditions and techniques of the Japanese sword-maker.

Despite the fact that Japan is one of the most technologically developed countries in the world, its sword smiths still continue their traditional craft as they have done for over a thousand years.

Japanese swords have also captured the imagination of many Westerners, being collected as art objects as well as appearing in a multitude of films and television programmes.

This introductory guides sets out to explain some basic facts about these swords and dispel some of the myths that surround them.

Publication: 1 June 2008

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The Royal Armouries have objects on loan to over 100 other sites across the world including Australia, Unites States of America, Canada, South Africa, Zimbabwe, India, Belgium and Ireland.

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