400,000 Valley Bookstore - Appreciation of Japanese Swords

The Japanese sword carries a charm of sleek beauty and has numerous enthusiasts around the world. While various famous swords are displayed in art museums and galleries, the best place to actually hold a real sword, feel its weight, and appreciate the physical object is at "Shiyoman Tani Honpo" during their Japanese sword appreciation experience. Founded in 1875, the president of "Shiyoman Tani Honpo," Masahisa Shiyoman Tani, is a descendant of samurai. The Japanese sword, known as the "soul of the samurai," was increasingly used less as a weapon during the Edo period and instead became a symbol of the samurai's status. In the warehouse of Shiyoman Tani Honpo, many Japanese swords have been preserved as family heirlooms since ancient times, allowing participants to appreciate various swords from different eras during the experience. One of the swords, engraved with "Nōshū Seki no Kagemoto," was made about 500 years ago, and "Kagemoto" is a representative swordsmith in Japan. Additionally, there is a sword called "Ichiburi," worn by an ancestor of Masahisa Shiyoman Tani when the Kaga Domain sent him to guard the Kyoto Imperial Palace during the historical event known as the "Boshin War," as well as a "Wakizashi" that belonged to his grandmother as a bridal gift. The key points of appreciating Japanese swords include their "form," "hamon" (blade pattern), and "ji-gane" (blade material), while another aspect worth appreciating is the sword fittings (scabbard). The Kaga Domain, which valued craftsmanship, applied "Kaga Zōgan" metalworking techniques and maki-e (sprinkled picture) on both the hilt and tsuba (guard). It is believed that during the experience, participants will understand that the Japanese swords before them are not only weapons but also works of art. Additionally, Mr. Masahisa Shiyoman Tani holds a 2nd Dan in "Iaido," which is said to be a swordsmanship developed in the late Muromachi period of the 16th century. After appreciating the Japanese swords, participants can watch a powerful demonstration of Iaido. They can also wear Iaido attire and take commemorative photos.

In the warehouse of the Shijuman Valley Store, there is a collection of various Japanese swords that have been preserved since ancient times. During the experience tour, you can admire different types of Japanese swords from various eras. The hilt of the sword, adorned with "Maki-e" (蒔繪), can be considered a work of art and is definitely a must-see. After appreciating the Japanese swords, you can also watch a powerful demonstration of Iaido (居合道) and Kendo (剣道). Participants can wear Iaido uniforms and take commemorative photos.