DAZAIFU, Fukuoka Prefecture--An outstanding collection of Japanese swords that had been in private ... of the Kamakura Period (1185-1333); and a ceremonial dagger of the Imperial Government ...

Japanese swords have always been more than just weapons, they were artworks, status symbols, and throughout history had a huge spiritual importance. Each sword is a unique artwork, and one that is ...

Discover what kabuki tells us about Japanese attitudes to swords, which feature in many legends and transcend the realm of weapons. Within each awe-inspiring Japanese sword, they say, dwells a spirit.

A rusty blade pulled from an attic decades ago was just revealed to be one of the oldest Japanese samurai swords in existence ...

But not all matcha is the same. Matcha at its highest quality is referred to as ceremonial-grade, because of the central role it plays in Japanese tea ceremonies. And while this bright green ...