1. Why a Forged Blade Still Needs Polishing
When a swordsmith finishes forging, the blade has its shape, but the decorative pattern on the edge and the fine texture of the metal are not yet polished out. These features are revealed through polishing. According to the Japan Sword Culture Promotion Association, polishing is essential to finish a modern sword as an art piece [1].
The people who make polishing their profession are called *togishi*. It is said that there are currently nearly 400 of them in Japan [11]. This number comes from a private commentary site, so the exact date of this count is unclear.
2. How Sword Polishing Moves from Rough Grinding to Final Polish
Polishing is divided into two main stages: rough grinding and finishing [3]. In the rough stage, the shape of the sword is adjusted using about 7 types of whetstones, moving from coarse to fine [3]. This is similar to using different grits of sandpaper on wood, but for swords, the goal is to reveal the metal’s texture while shaping it.
Immediately after polishing, the blade is vulnerable to fine scratches. The Sword Museum recommends special care for about half a year after polishing. They advise wiping off and reapplying oil about once a month during this period [4].
3. Sword Polishing as a Living National Treasure Skill and Family Tradition
Sword polishing is designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property. In 2014, Hon’ami Kōshū was recognized as a holder of this skill, often called a "Living National Treasure" [1].
According to Touken World, there have been 5 Living National Treasures for polishing so far. Kōshū is the son of the previously recognized Hon’ami Nisshū. He continues the techniques of the Hon’ami family, which has practiced polishing as a family business since the Muromachi period [2].
4. How Rice Glue Is Used to Make the White Scabbard (Shirasaya)
The *shirasaya* is a plain white scabbard used to store a polished sword. It is made separately from the decorative scabbard used for display. Both types use *magnolia* wood [6]. Magnolia wood is chosen because it has little oil, which helps prevent the sword from rusting [6].
The scabbard is made by splitting the wood lengthwise, carving the inside to fit the blade, and gluing the two halves together. The glue is *sokuhan*, made from kneaded rice grains. Unlike artificial adhesives, rice glue does not harm the blade and can be peeled off later for cleaning or repair [6]. The design assumes the scabbard will be opened again.
5. How Scabbard Makers Fit a Scabbard to the Blade Using Oil Marks
A sword rusts easily where it touches the scabbard. To adjust the fit to the blade, the scabbard maker applies oil to the blade, inserts it, and then checks where the oil has transferred. These marks show where the blade and scabbard are touching. The maker then shaves away small amounts of wood and repeats this process [7].
The magnolia wood used for scabbards is dried for at least 1 year. Depending on the craftsman, it may be dried for 1 to 10 years, though there is no fixed rule [7].
The outside of a finished *shirasaya* may have writing in ink, called *sayagaki*. This includes the swordsmith’s name, blade length, date, and the appraiser’s name. It is said to have been started by the Hon’ami family in the mid-Edo period so the sword’s details could be known without opening the scabbard. It also came to serve as a guarantee of authenticity [8].
6. How Sword Fittings Are Divided Among Specialists Such as Lacquerers and Handle Wrappers
Since the Muromachi period, making sword fittings (*koshirae*) has been divided among specialists. Scabbard makers, lacquerers, handle wrappers, silver workers, and metalworkers each handle specific parts [5].
Lacquerers apply thin layers of lacquer to the scabbard to make it strong and beautiful. This process can take 2 to 3 months, depending on the specifications [5]. Handle wrappers cover the handle with shark skin, then wrap thread around it to create a diamond pattern. Inside the handle, Japanese paper is packed to act as a cushion and improve grip [9].
Some sources state that shark skin is imported because it is not caught in nearby Japanese waters. However, this is one commentary’s view, so it may not apply to all cases.
7. How the Modern Sword Craftsmen's Exhibition Supports Today's Sword Craftsmanship
The Modern Sword Craftsmen’s Exhibition, run by the Japan Art Sword Preservation Association, aims to preserve and improve traditional skills and to raise interest in swords as cultural properties. It covers polishing, blade engraving, metalwork, white scabbards, fittings, handle wrapping, and silver work [10].
Works not made with traditional techniques or materials are not eligible for review [10]. While swordsmiths compete in the forging category, this exhibition also highlights the skills of the artisans who support the blade.
Try It Yourself and Visit Museums
You can try making rice glue by crushing rice grains with your fingers and gluing two pieces of paper together. After it dries, place a damp cloth on it and see what happens to the paper. This helps you imagine why *sokuhan* glue can be peeled off, though paper and wood behave differently than a sword scabbard.
If you visit a museum, look not just at the blade but also at the scabbard, handle, and guard. Imagine which artisan made each part to change how you see the whole object. You can check the Japan Art Sword Preservation Association’s website for details on the Modern Sword Craftsmen’s Exhibition. [10]