Beautiful Japan　The katana is made in Seki.

Kirei na japan . japan no dento de aru Katana zukuri o miru koto ga deki ma su.

What is the history of swords in Seki City?

Seki City, located in Gifu Prefecture in Japan, has a long and rich history of sword making that dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333). During this time, the region was known for producing high-quality blades, and the swords made in Seki became highly sought after by warriors and samurai throughout Japan.

The tradition of sword making in Seki continued through the Muromachi period (1336-1573), and the city’s reputation for producing exceptional blades only grew stronger. However, during the Edo period (1603-1868), sword making was largely banned by the government in an effort to prevent civil unrest. Despite this, the sword makers of Seki continued to hone their craft, creating knives and other cutting tools instead of swords.

In the late 19th century, with the lifting of the sword-making ban, the sword makers of Seki returned to their craft, once again producing high-quality blades. During World War II, Seki became a key center of sword production for the Japanese military, and the city’s sword makers were recognized for their exceptional workmanship.

In the post-war period, sword making declined in popularity as Japan focused on rebuilding its economy. However, the tradition was kept alive by a small group of dedicated craftsmen, and in recent years, the art of sword making has experienced a resurgence in Seki. Today, Seki is known for producing some of the finest blades in the world, and the city’s sword makers continue to pass down their skills to the next generation.