How Japanese swords (the Katana) were made, an absolutely brilliant short documentary from 1997!

The Japanese sword is the soul of the Samurai. The crafting of this work of art — which embodies beauty, strength and tradition — has been shrouded in secrecy for more than a thousand of years. Because of the highly advanced techniques and numerous years of dedicated effort required in crafting Japanese swords, the skill has always been a closely kept and jealously guarded secret. Yohindo Yoshihara is a consummate Japanese swordsmith and a very high regarded Mukansa craftman in Japan. He is also the best-known Japanese swordsmith outside of Japan.
This video has been produced to appeal to all aficionados of the Japanese sword around the world and is a treasure trove of secrets to Yohindo Yoshihara’s truly outstanding Japanese sword craftsmanship.

Watched the documentary today and was very impressed. A craftsman can do what no machine can — achieving perfect balance, symmetry, and beauty…