Challenging Nagamitsu: Recreating Ancient Swords with Modern Techniques

During the late Kamakura period, Nagamitsu, leader of the prominent Choshuha school in Bizen, was acclaimed as one of the foremost master swordsmiths of his time. He left behind numerous masterpieces that defined an era in the sword-making kingdom of Choshu. Inspired by the challenge posed by the belief that recreating ancient swords with modern technology was impossible, Kubo Yoshihiro embarked on a journey to become a swordsmith. Since then, he has steadfastly pursued the recreation of ancient techniques, starting with the meticulous study of the chemical composition of iron sand and the use of traditional tatara smelting methods to replicate the iron used during Nagamitsu's era.

This documentary chronicles Kubo Yoshihiro's lifelong pursuit, where he has consolidated all his knowledge and skills to challenge the legacy of the great Nagamitsu.

Contents:

• Profile
• Challenge the Nagamitsu
• Anthology of Works

Featured Participants:

• Kubo Yoshihiro
• Akenori Myochin
• Yusuke Ohashi
• Johann Loydviller