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Hi everyone, I just wanted to share this easy option for displaying your tsuba on your desk. I got these acrylic glass light boxes for about 15 Euro on amazon and I think they make a pretty neat display. I would love to see how you display your tosogu!

関住兼松一則作 – Seki ju Kanematsu Kazunori saku (Kazunori’s family name is Kanematsu.)

Here You go Seki Kane something

i have a set $95 plus shipping and fees

This seems fairly simple if someone can post a link to the original sale thread. Either the flaws pictured above were clearly stated in the original sales post or they were not….period. This is a contract dispute fellas, either the description of the sword was accurate or it wasn’t, this has NOTHING to do with how anyone “felt”.

Thank you Sam! I have been trying to find this one for a while now, unfortunately no luck so far. Hopefully one day I can get a copy.

Hi, for sale is a nice Tachi from the 3rd generation Naohiro. As I am mainly focusing on Shinshinto, I decided with a heavy heart to sell it. The nagasa is about 74,5cm and it comes in Shirasaya and NTHK Papers. Signed: Bushu Musashimachi Junin Naohiro. It is an impressive copy of an early Kamakura Blade. About the smith: NAOHIRO (直弘), 3rd gen., Shōwa (昭和, 1926-1989), Saitama – “Juō Bushū Musashi-machi Takakura-jū Naohiro” (寿王武州武蔵町高倉住直弘), real name Yanagawa Masaki (柳川昌喜), born October 5th 1910, son of Yanagawa Saijirō, he died in September 1994 Price: 6000 Euro for any questions, more/better pictures or offer, please send me a PM I can also bring it Utrecht, thanks Oliver

Haha, I was about to post this blade here too but you beat me. The most expensive TH blade I've encountered to date. Seems quite ambitious. It's not in the Christies 100 Masterpieces Compton Collection, but I assume there is a paper trail to confirm that connection. The Mei is in poor condition with the 2nd kanji barely legible per the papers. I'm not seeing where this valuation is coming from. Sesko says his work is not uncommon. And Yoshimochi isn't highly rated. Is this dealer known for outrageous pricing?

Wow thats a huge collection 😄 yes these are the exact ones

There is no Kiyomitsu as you describe it. Session I: tanto with 26,5 cm but only one hole. lot 313 Session II: tanto with 30,6 cm; only inscribed Kiyomitsu probably Etchu Uda; lot 234

Here is a Yoshimochi just listed on Iida Koendo, formerly of the Walter A. Compton collection: https://iidakoendo.com/16843/ In addition to also being signed and ubu, the listing specifically notes that it has seen very little material lost from polishing, and that the jigane, hamon and boshi remain very bright and healthy. A good contrast to the earlier blade being discussed; sadly the original listing is no longer available to compare the two. Also notice the price compared to the other Yoshimochi (almost ten times the final bid at 33 million yen!). There's also a little note in the listing that explains another reason why the specific branch of the Ichimonji is not listed on Yoshimochi attributions - there's disagreement over whether he counts as Fukuoka Ichimonji or Yoshioka Ichimonji, with sword scholars theorizing that he may have been one of the transitional smiths.

I just wanted to share this unusual sword I just stumbled upon: https://www.samuraishokai.jp/sword/26123.html I have never seen anything like this, thought it might be interesting...

Yes, inspired by the sakabatō ("reverse-blade sword") used by the eponymous protagonist of that series. It's a common build among Chinese and Western katana makers (e.g. https://www.swordcn.com/Sakabato-Katana-Advanced-Version-p1379508.html) but every now and then a Japanese fan will request one from a modern tōshō. Incidentally, the character of Kenshin is loosely based on a real-life historical figure, Kawakami Gensai (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawakami_Gensai) who most definitely did not use a reverse-bladed sword.

Sword museums in Nagoya and Toyama are top grade, TNM in Tokyo has good but small and rarely updated display, and selection at Tokugawa museum in Nagoya is ok. Otherwise it has to be tied to an exhibit. Castles, most historical museums by default have subpar selection. Swords in shrines on display rotate and one might end up watching a blade in zero polish. NBTHK runs exhibits quite often, there are collections like Kurokawa institute of ancient cultures which constantly travel and can be seen somewhere (its a good one). There are many places which have a few interesting pieces like Kasugataisha in Nara, museum of Art Neuveu in Kyoto, but its like three or four pieces of primal interest. To the point I would not normally look online and check "oh, this place has swords, I'll visit". In Nagoya I would go to sword museum, Tokugawa, possibly Atsuta and if one likes castles - travel to Inuyama. Its small but has character. There are clubs which have very strong showings though - kokuho and such.

城州 住 國重 Joshu Ju Kunishige

I believe informational materials, including books, are exempt if properly categorized (HTS 9903.01.31). But I have heard of others having this same problem when Fedex is the carrier. If the package was properly categorized, I’d file a dispute with Fedex. The Supreme Court ruling was as to the IEEPA tariffs, not the tariffs under the US-Japan trade agreement (which probably would not have been in place without the illegal IEEPA tariffs).

Calabrese (Hokke) above, hit the nail on the head.

It's because we're down under Clive

I do like the illuminated cases - they are just not big enough to display a LARGE collection. [300 plus!] Max are the display boxes like these on eBay? https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/147150238802

Hey all! After reading a few beginner books, I am looking to expand my knowledge into more specific topics of Nihonto and would like to start with Mino (my favorite). If anyone has book recommendations (Preferably in english, but Japanese is also okay) I would be truly grateful. All the best Erik

Thank you @mecox! I somehow overlooked this article. Location would be in Munich, Germany.

@Toki Hi Erik There is a Mino summary of NMB Downloads: I still have some of the Mino book and supplement, with an updated supplement. Cost is AUD 50 plus mail . Mail could be around AUD 50 depending location.

wow that looks bloody good

We had similar type before. It was described as inspired by Rurouni kenshin anime or sth.] Check this masakatsu

I can't clearly take side here. But I as buyer demand only one thing from seller - exact dimensions. I bought here from many of You guys, from many countries and I had claims only for measurements - and Yes couple cm shorter or nagasa measured from tip to tsuba is an obvious fault. Kizu are easy to miss. I would like to know If this rust spot is only at one side or is this already structural through entire blade. I bought from Mason already, all was good. maybe restoration of original offer would be helpful here? Marcin

There will be lots to see around various parts of Japan at any given time. I think trying to get most accurate info 1-2 months before trip would be my recommendation. I planned my June trip way ahead of that schedule but when I was planning I didnt know the exact items that I would see at many locations. But now when the exhibitions are ongoing or getting closer to start date many places will put out list of items on display to their website. For me this is very important and I have been able to cut some places out and add some more interesting ones in. Here are for example some interesting things you could see in Nagoya & Kyoto in about 3 weeks. (Unfortunately I will skip Nagoya this year) Nagoya Tōken World will have koshirae special exhibition (their permanent exhibition is most likely largest in the world) https://www.meihaku.jp/event-koshiraeten/ Tokugawa Art Museum will have special NHK exhibition Hideyoshi & Hidenaga https://toyotomi2026.jp/ Atsuta Jingū will have their tachi on display rotation https://www.atsutajingu.or.jp/houmotukan_kusanagi/schedule/index02.html Kyoto Kyoto National Museum will have Kitano Tenjin special exhibition https://www.kyohaku.go.jp/jp/exhibitions/special/2026_kitano/ Kitano Tenmangu will have special exhibition https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/◎sp_exhA401_fr.pdf Honno-ji will have Yamato swords special exhibition https://nihontonobi.jimdosite.com/ As you wrote the timing on exhibitions can be crucial. I know I will miss few amazing ones as I cannot fit everything I want to my schedule as it is just impossible. There can be some very short exhibitions popping up too. For example this summer there is one amazing event bit over 1 week in length popping up in Nara. I just couldn't fit it in as that time I am in other part of country. There are lots of museums and places in Japan that have very interesting swords. I have few places I check when searching information and Brett has been doing amazing job adding things to NMB event calendar.

One of our members here wrote the book below, and it also has a supplement. @mecox "Mino-To: Swords and Swordsmiths of Mino Province and Mino-To Supplement by Malcolm Cox. 1993." I'm not sure where it currently may be listed; but this is the first book that comes to mind. Best of luck, -Sam

Gentlemen, last night my parcel from Czerny´s finally arrived. Packed in a sturdy manner and the tsuba match the descriptions. So I am a happy camper. Best, Danny

Hi Travis, I agree with Kantaro and Grey, it is a real Japanese sword (not a Chinese fake). Your sword is a wakizashi, that is, a sword whose blade length is between 12 inches and 24 inches. Although the blade condition is poor, a couple of pics show a hamon (the outline of the hardened edge which appears as whitish metal). The tsuba (sword guard) and tsuka (handle) were of good quality, but also now in poor condition. As far as the restoration goes, the bad news is that its going to be a very expensive process. There are only a few qualified sword polishers in the US and that very high cost (combined with the handle repair) would far exceed the value of the sword. All of that being said, search the message board for info on the care and handling, as Grey says avoid attempting to clean the blade, keep the sword lightly oiled and enjoy being the caretaker of a real Japanese sword. Tom PS what part of Pa are you from? I live in the Altoona/ Johnstown area half the year and could give your sword a look if your close.

Hi Travis, The sword is real but appears to be fairly low end. Do not have it professionally restored; you don't know any where near enough about it to make that decision. Here you will find a care and handling brochure you should read: https://nbthk-ab2.org/sword-characteristics/ Grey

Ken, in that condition, it will be very difficult even for a professional photographer to show more of the features. The blade would need a professional (= traditional) restoration first. Please do not try this yourself! What can be found online about HIZEN TADAYKI is not much: In the Hizen Tadayoshi lineage, Tadayuki is a historically significant figure during the late Edo period. When the 6th and 7th generations of the main Tadayoshi line passed away prematurely, Tadayuki (a senior disciple) took over the forge, managed the school, and successfully mentored the 8th generation of Tadayoshi (Hachidai Tadayoshi) until he reached adulthood. Notable Characteristics of Tadayuki Blades Steel and Grain: Hizen blades are renowned for their highly refined Jigane (surface steel) and often display Konuka-hada (fine "rice bran" grain). Quench Lines: Tadayuki blades frequently feature elegant notare (wavy) or suguha (straight) temper lines. Signature: Signatures will typically translate to "Sesshu Ju Fujiwara Tadayuki" (for the Osaka lineage) or "Hizen Koku Tadayuki". For a comparison of an authenticated example: https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product/antique-Japanese-sword-katana-signed-by-tadayuki-nbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate/?srsltid=AfmBOoryBB8LXnS2Kd3kM4r8Eh__2DDliIlbbIU8-jv6KstOCvXelvCq Roger Robertshaw is an expert on HIZEN swords: https://www.hizento.com/author-book-roger-robertshaw-tadayoshi.php I believe he is a member here.

With that many sales listings you would hope for a gold membership to support the forum.....

Sudden resurrection :D Nice T98 with crest. Habaki rising sun pattern. Looks neat. Don't ask for mei it's like 95% fake.

入隊時の中隊長殿（十九年四月一日） - The company commander when he enlisted (1944, 4th month, 1st day). 陸軍中尉　堀米昇殿 – Army lieutenant, Mr. Horigome Noboru

The Toronto Tōken Kai will be hosting a display of Japanese Swords and other items of interest as part of Toronto Doors Open at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre this Saturday and Sunday (May 23 and 24) from 10 am until 5 pm. This event is open to all and is free of charge. Come by and see us! The JCCC is located at 6 Sakura Way in Toronto, Ontario. Take the Wynford Drive exit from the DVP and go west to Sakura Way. Some map software may still list Sakura Way as Garamond Court.

There is an effect, it's the tsuba on the image of the book 😂.