Recently Japanese swords have gained enormous popularity as art objects with collectors and enthusiasts around the world, but until now much of the most detailed information on the subject has been available only in Japanese. This comprehensive guide to the appreciation and appraisal of the blades of Japanese swords provides, at last, all the background that readers need to become true connoisseurs.
The book is organized along historical lines for the sake of clarity and convenience, and its approach is always practical. Broad discussions of each tradition within the Gokaden focus on the features that distinguish specific schools and smiths - the various kinds of jihada, hamon, boshi, and hataraki favored in different periods and regions - making this an invaluable reference tool for all enthusiasts, especially those who wish to take part in kantei-kai, or sword appreciation meetings. Each section closes with an easy reference chart summarizing the distinctive features of the work of various schools and smiths.

The chapter on terminology gives advice on what to look for when examining the different parts of a blade, again making reference to the unique features of particularly significant smiths. The chapter on care and appraisal of blades tells precisely how to handle blades and what to expect at a sword appraisal meeting, including an explanation of all the various responses that a judge may give in response to a bid.

Richly illustrated throughout with more than 550 of the author's own painstaking oshigata illustrations - sword tracings onto which details are penciled in by hand - THE CONNOISSEUR’S BOOK OF JAPANESE SWORDS is easily the most informative and comprehensive guide to the blades of Japanese swords ever to appear in English.

Kokan Nagayama, who is widely recognized as one of the foremost living sword polishers, compiled the notes for this book over the course of many years spent teaching the arts of polishing and appraisal.

Nagayama-sensei is widely recognized as one of the foremost living sword polishers and is a veteran teacher of both polishing and appraisal. Here in one accessible volume he distills the store of knowledge he has gained over a lifetime of intensive research.

From the Back Cover:

"Nagayama-sensei and his senior pupils have for many years now taken an enlightened approach to study of Japanese swords outside of Japan. They have been of great assistance to collectors here in Great Britain and in other countries, traveling and living abroad, organizing exhibitions, teaching us and polishing our swords, always in an altruistic spirit. This translation is another example of this same approach. In the past we have often struggled on our own or in small groups to gain an understanding of this peculiarly Japanese cultural asset, and with many of the definitive books on the subject still untranslated, a wealth of information has in the past been inaccessible to the non-Japanese reader. THE CONNOISSEUR’S BOOK OF JAPANESE SWORDS will be of great help in making educated judgments at kantei sessions, and will be an invaluable and constant reference work." - From the Foreword by Clive Sinclaire, Chairman of the Token Society of Great Britain.

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The Japanese sword combines unbreakability, rigidity, and lethal cutting power, and it is in the resolution of these conflicting practical requirements that it emerges as a triumph of the forger's art. The mystique of the sword lingers on in our age of mechanized combat, but the aesthetic qualities for which swords are most valued by collectors today - the liveliness of the metal "skin," the confidence in every aspect of the design, the scrolling temper-line, the almost buoyant lightness of the hilt when the blade is held in the hand - all derive from what the Japanese sword demanded as a symbol of strength and as a weapon. As an instrument of clear persuasion, no other blade anywhere has ever been it's equal.

This volume, containing color and black-and-white plates, has been prepared as an introduction to the history and appreciation of the Japanese sword. Its author, until his death in 1978, was one of Japan's foremost sword experts, and his wide knowledge is here brought to bear on every aspect of sword lore, including forging techniques and problems of appraisal. Looking over the 1,500 years of sword history in Japan, Kanzan Sato notes how the major developments - the shift from the early straight blades to the tachi, which were longer curved blades slung edge downwards at the waist, to the familiar daishō pair of short and long swords worn by samurai until modern times - were the result of both technical innovation and changed fighting techniques. He examines the various fashions in sword mounts and the at times precious, highly decorated work of the smiths who specialized in sword guards, or tsuba, during the Momoyama and Edo periods.

The centerpiece of this book, however, is a detailed examination of over a dozen of Japan's most revered blades, including the Ō-Kanehira and the Dōjigiri by Yasutsuna, perhaps the two finest swords in Japan and as clear and beautiful today as when they were forged some 900 years ago. The discussion of what makes these blades special and how they have been passed down for generations offers the reader a wealth of insight into the sword in Japan as heirloom and cultural treasure.

About the author

Kanzau Sato was born in Yamagata Prefecture in 1907 and until his death in 1978 was regarded as one of Japan's foremost experts on the Japanese sword. A graduate of Kokugakuin University, he worked in the section for National Treasures, Ministry of Education, and Tokyo National Museum. He was Executive Director of the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords and Vice-Director of the Sword Museum. His publications include works on Kotetsu and Higo metal-working.

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This is a sister book of “The Traditional Japanese Color”, and focuses on the beauty of Japanese traditional color combination. This book explores the aesthetic of color combination in the traditional Japanese art works, which show its various aspects and constitute the exquisite world of color. About 100 examples of two, three or more color combinations in various fields from painting to annual events in the Japanese art and culture will be included. Color name list of 250 traditional Japanese colors and index with CMYK/ RGB date in the back page.

A collection of Japanese eroticism by Ukiyo-e artists.

A new volume in the Traditional Patterns series, this book features Shunga, a type of Ukiyo-e that is made using the finest Japanese woodblock print techniques and portrays the erotic expressions of men and women; and the pleasure, the pain, and the beauty of the human body.

This Japanese erotic art was made by all Ukiyo-e artists and was usually more profitable than "normal" art during the Edo period. It is believed that Shunga, literally "springtime picture," originated from Chinese medical books. It was not only intended to provide the fun that comes from viewing erotic images, but also the book could be held as a charm against evil. Shunga was also used as textbooks for the sexual education of young men and women. Because there were fewer restrictions on Shunga, ukiyo-e artists used a variety of colors usually not seen in usual woodblock prints. Only the best techniques of Ukiyo-e are found in Shunga.

This glorious volume features works from the Edo period to the present. Including works by Ukiyo-e artists such as Hishikawa Moronobu, Kitagawa Utamaro, Utagawa Kunisada, Katsushika Hokusai, this Japanese "kama sutra" manages to be erotic, artistic, and fun all at the same time.

As a long-waited new volume in the best selling “The Kimono and the Colors of Japan” serial books, this fifth volume serves as an encyclopedia of motifs on kimonos. Not only motifs on kimonos and sashes but also those on various kimono ornaments are presented accompanied by the name of the motifs and some cultural backgrounds and descriptions of motifs. This is a “must” book for kimono fans,

Nearly 500 sensational illustrations with the taste of manga and anime.

Manga, anime, and video games are some of Japan’s modern cultural contributions to the world. Girl, Illustrated is a provocative collection by 100 professional illustrators who rise above the throng in this subculture. It features 500 high-quality works in the manga and anime styles - which have been getting more and more popular all around the world - showing female characters in various enticing poses. This book will be a must-have for manga and anime fans, as well as for professionals in the video gaming industry. It will also be a useful source of information and inspiration, highlighting hot trends for those in the advertising and publishing fields. Featured illustrators are all from Japan, such as mota, Akatsuki Kato, gorobots, redjuice, refeia, Nino, Masakichi and more.

The cherry blossom is considered a national flower in Japan. It has been celebrated for many centuries and holds a very prominent position in Japanese culture.

The Chronicle of Japan, the second oldest book in classical Japanese history, records the tradition of cherry blossom viewing parties being held as early as the third century. The imperial households, poets, singers, and other aristocrats would gather and celebrate under the blossoms and it has been passed down through the generations. This tradition continues today as the Japanese Meteorological Agency and the public track the cherry blossom front as it moves northward up the country. The Japanese people pay close attention to these forecasts and turn out in large numbers at parks, shrines, and temples with family and friends to hold flower-viewing parties. In 1912, Japan gifted 3,020 cherry trees to the United States to celebrate their growing-friendship. These trees were planted in Manhattan and along the shore of the tidal basin in Washington, D.C. This gift was renewed with 3,800 more trees in 1965. A new title in the traditional patterns series, this book shows another Japanese traditional motif, the cherry blossom.

About 220 works are featured in the book dating from the eighth century through the twentieth century, including such artists as Hiroshige and Taikan Yokoyama.

Following “70s Magazine Advertisement in Japan” and “80s Magazine Advertisement in Japan”, this book collects about 500 magazine advertisements created in the 1960s, when the lifestyles of Japanese people were dramatically changed, enjoying a period of rapid economic growth in the positive mood. People longed for owning the cars and electric applicants such as air conditioners, color television, and etc. Various styles of new fashions such as ivy, mod, mini-skirts, psychedelic and etc, enfevered the young people. An excellent idea source and reference for the creators and marketing professionals.

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Tokyo Clash is an extraordinary encounter with Japanese design culture. Author and photographer Ralf Bahren presents Japan's megacity in a visually stunning collection of images, vividly colourful and rich in contrast. He transports readers on an exciting trip through Japanese everyday life - a world that doesn't want to conform to the cliche of Asian reticence. Eye-catching signs, glittering games of chance, Manga characters and countless other items in this collection of Japanese products compete for the viewer's attention. They exist, apparently without any contradiction, alongside traditional temples and Buddha statues. This delightful book promises appealing, provocative and sometimes absurd insights into a foreign universe. Get ready for the ride of your life!A"

Japanese woodblock prints, or ukiyo-e, are the most recognizable Japanese art form. Their massive popularity has spread from Japan to be embraced by a worldwide audience. Covering the period from the beginning of the Japanese woodblock print in the 1680s until the year 1900, Japanese Woodblock Prints provides a detailed survey of all the major artists, along with the images on which their fame rests.

Unlike previous examinations of this art form, Japanese Woodblock Prints includes detailed histories of the publishers of woodblock prints - who were often the driving force determining which prints, and therefore which artists, would make it into mass circulation for a chance at critical and popular success. Invaluable as a guide for ukiyo-e enthusiasts looking for detailed information about their favorite artists and prints, it is also an ideal introduction for newcomers to the world of the woodblock print. This lavishly illustrated book will be a valued addition to the libraries of scholars, as well as the general art enthusiast.

Whether you're remodeling your house, redesigning your apartment or just looking for a book of design ideas, Japan Home is a beautiful and indispensable resource full of practical information, shopping resources and, of course, inspiration.
Filled with light and simplicity and existing in close harmony with the natural world, Japanese interior design has long been renowned for its spare beauty, utility and grace. More and more people outside of Japan have come to appreciate its tranquil allure, and are incorporating uniquely Japanese features into their homes.

Illustrations: 200 color photos, 135 watercolors, 16 historical prints, 14 plans, 6 maps

he Art of Japanese Architecture explores the simplicity, asymmetry, sensitivity to the natural environment, and use of natural materials that are the hallmarks of Japanese architecture. These elements are explored and clarified in this cultural and historical overview of the rapidly changing world of Japanese architecture.
Beginning with a discussion of prehistoric pit dwellings and concluding with a description of significant modern buildings, David and Michiko Young, authors of the 2006 American Horticultural Award-winning book, The Art of the Japanese Garden, analyze the major changes in architecture caused by the introduction of Buddhist culture, the development of feudalism, the influence of Western culture and the adaptation of the international style in contemporary buildings.

This informative and beautifully illustrated book showcases projects of all types, sizes and budgets from the last decade in Japan, and includes museums, private houses, schools, shops, hospitals, airports and chapels. Both cutting-edge, emerging young practices – such as Sou Fijimoto and Junya Ishigami – and established, internationally known architects – among them Toyo Ito, Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma and SANAA – are featured, as are international practices working in Japan (such as Rogers Stirk Harbour, Foster + Partners and Herzog & de Meuron). Stunning images by leading architectural photographer Edmund Sumner are accompanied by accessible critical texts and drawings. This illuminating survey is essential not just for architects and designers but also for anyone fascinated by Japan's unique – and increasing – influence on architecture worldwide.

Profiles more than 100 architectural projects from the last decade
A compelling reference for architects, urban planners, designers and anyone interested in contemporary Japanese architecture

A comparison between the Italian and Japanese experience in terms of architecture and landscape. This book presents numerous critical insights, examples of projects and buildings, and illustrated essays by Italian and Japanese architects, such as Toyo Ito, Antonio Citterio, Atelier Bow Wow, Fumihiko Maki, Kengo Kuma, Moses Ricci, Franco Purini, Paolo Desideri among others. This publication focuses both on the landscape policies and the comparison among different landscapes. Including a photographic atlas, the book concludes with an overview of projects under the subject of "Design of sensitive landscape " brought by three Italian schools of architecture and three Italian-Japanese comparisons.

In the ryokan, the traditional Japanese guesthouse, building and landscape are melded in harmonic unity. The customs, art, and history of Japan become a vivid, personal experience. - Richly illustrated articles discussing art forms, ways of life, and traditional rituals in ancient Japan: architecture, painting, color woodcuts, ceramics, ikebana, select foods, clothing, no theater, martial arts, seasonal festivals, and more - Extensive glossary of terms relating to Japanese culture - High quality pictures by the internationally recognized photographers Narimi Hatano and Klaus Frahm A stay in a ryokan is far more than an overnight in a Japanese hotel - it is a journey through time that allows you to become a guest in Old Japan. Whatever form the ryokan may have, wherever it is located, you will participate in the traditional way of life of a country that remained isolated from foreign influences for more than a thousand years, and developed a unique, highly aesthetic, and fascinating culture. With only few compromises to modern times, a ryokan offers an experience of a world we thought was lost, in which we can immerse ourselves, detached from our everyday lives. Art, architecture, and the culture of daily life in ancient Japan as well as ceremonies and rituals, including the tea ceremony, the way of the Samurai, and much more is elucidated and explored in richly illustrated articles.