Nittoho Tatara (Nittoho Furnace)

Tatara-buki is a traditional Japanese technique that is essential to the making of Japanese swords. However, in 1925, the fires of Japan’s tatara (furnaces) were all extinguished. In order to preserve Japanese swords as important works of art and cultural assets, Nittoho Furnace was restored and began operating again in 1977. Technicians and a supervisor known as a murage, who is well-versed in the furnace’s construction and operating method, still work at Nittoho Furnace, and produce Japanese swords using the traditional technique. A visit is highly recommended both for fans of Japanese swords and those interested in traditional Japanese culture.