Nestled in the mountains of southwestern Hyogo, Kikyo Hayamitsu Swordsmith invites anyone with an interest in traditional craftmanship to observe and experience the art of Japanese sword-making. Though the days of the samurai have long passed, the katana continues to be a powerful symbol of Japan’s culture—just as it has been for hundreds of years. Whether it be through martial arts, the films of Akira Kurosawa, or even popular anime and manga, Japan’s traditional blades have gained fame all over the world. Katana may at first bring to mind bloody scenes from action films or the heroic deeds of battles long past, but there is something profoundly meditative about the sword-making process. Anyone who visits this countryside forge will be rewarded with one of rural Japan’s most unique experiences.
Worlds away from any crowded city street, a humble wooden building lies hidden away against the backdrop of a beautiful forest. This is Hayamitsu Kikyo’s forge where he carries on the discipline of sword-making and shares his knowledge with those who make the worthwhile journey. The warm glow of the fire burns bright orange and blue as it heats the steel, evoking the feeling of winter nights nestled by the fireplace. Kikyo-san works with the type of confidence that comes only from a passion for the work that he does. Sword-making is not merely his job–it is a lifelong study that he has devoted himself to.
The peace of the forest is momentarily broken once every twenty minutes, as the steel is pulled out from the roaring fire to be hammered down and folded over. It emerges from the coals like a fallen meteorite, and the sparks from the hammering scatter across the workstation like a dazzling firework display.
Before being placed back in the fire, Kikyo-san coats the steel in a layer of mud to amplify the heating process. The folded steel is then returned to the flames, and the process begins once more. The art of sword-making invites us to reflect upon the beauty of humankind’s relationship with nature. Steel, mud, coal, fire, and human effort all combine to create something that neither nature nor humans could create on their own.
Hayamitsu Swordsmith is located in Yano Town, Aioi City and is accessible by bus from JR Aioi Station. The journey will give you a perfect glimpse into the heart and soul of rural Japan. While the bustling streets of Sannomiya or the towering splendor of Himeji castle are marvels in their own right, they only tell half the story of what Hyogo has to offer. Kikyo Hayamitsu Swordsmith gives travelers from near and far the opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most fascinating traditions.
In a world full of mass-produced goods and digital distractions, it’s important to remind ourselves that there are still masters of the traditional arts—those who dedicate themselves to difficult disciplines and share the wisdom of the past with future generations. This is what makes Hayamitsu Swordsmith a refuge for anyone who wants to venture off the beaten path and connect deeply with Japanese culture, both past and present.
By: Shayne Yano
Shayne is from Los Angeles, California and currently works as an assistant language teacher in Sayo Town, Hyogo, Japan. He studied Japanese religion and culture as a graduate student at Loyola Marymount University.
Comments