Helmets were also on display. I wonder if any had seen battle?

Helmets were also on display. I wonder if any had seen battle? (Photo: Jason Carter)

Japanese Sword Hataya

Take home a piece of Japanese history

John Carter Sep 06, 2013 - 1 min read

Helmets were also on display. I wonder if any had seen battle?

I was told this sword was from Kamakura period (鎌倉時代, 1185–1333) and would cost somewhere in the region of ¥2,000,000

Not only swords were available as one could simply purchase a Tsuba (the swords hand guard). On display were some incredibly ornate examples.

Some Tsuba and Tsuka (handles) laid on the table possibly waiting to also go on display. The Lacquered box really caught my eye though.

A sword of such length immediately made me think of Toshiro Mifune's extravagant charter in Seven Samurai.

Sword Hataya in Shinjuku was a little small but with some many relics of the past you'll soon find yourself lost in the past

The Katana is probably the most predominantly recognised emblem of Japan’s feudal past. A shimmering blade that could pierce the heavens, forged by fire with absolute skill and precision, many have desired to own a Japanese sword and purchasing one is far simpler than you might expect. Located in Shinjuku, Japanese Sword Hataya is one such place that affords you the privilege of owning such a masterpiece. Of course these hand made masterpieces command a price but entering the store just to appreciate the beauty of the swords on display is adequate enough for most. If you are sated for more, then located just 2 minutes up the road is a Katana museum, however photography is strictly forbidden here.

John Carter

John Carter @john.carter

I'm a Visual Effects Graduate from the UK. With a passion for photography I hope to travel Japan and capture its unrivaled beauty.