Kawachi Kunihira has just been declared as "master holder of highest skills" in traditional japanese swordsmithing by the prefecture of Nara, where he lives. The original japanese version of this book, published only a few years ago, has sold above 10 000 copies until now, and is still selling well - quite an accomplishment for a book aimed at such a narrow world.
The book is filled with bright, color and black & white beautiful photographs whose author has been visiting Kawachi-sensei on a regular basis for many years. The idea was that by spending considerable time with the craftman, he would come to understand the nature of his work, and thus create images carrying a deeper understanding. See for yourself.
The book goes through all kinds of talk, such as the actual reason for a japanese sword to be, viewers' perception, famous swordmen and stories related to the sword, and of course a basic overview of the making, maintenance and appreciation. The aim of this book is to bring the reader to understand and appreciate the sword. One must expect a collection of essays rather than a technical reference book. It is as easy to read as travel guide, but much more fun! Full praise for a long-awaited style in the often geek-like technical world of japanese swords that are, at the very least, high-end works of art.