Yoshihara is the tenth-generation swordsmith living in Takasago, Katsushika-ku. Yoshihara began to learn sword smithing at age 12, taught by his grandfather Kuni-ie, renowned swordsmith from the early part of the 20th century. Yoshinodo’s father, was part of the “lost generation” of swordsmiths and gave up the craft to concentrate on the management of an ironworks.

        For many years, Yoshindo worked side by side with his brother Shoji. Both are Mukansa (beyond any judgement) level swordsmiths. Through experimentation and persistence, Yoshindo has not only “rediscovered” many lost secrets of the Kamakura period of sword making but has contributed his own improvements. 

        Yoshihara’s blades have a unique spirit to them that is immediately recognizable. The steel he uses is from the Tatara Forge in Shimane Prefecture. This steel, called Tamahagane (jewel steel) is extracted from iron sand using techniques developed over 1500 years ago. By selecting the perfect mix of steels, Yoshihara is able to take advantage of slight imperfections in the steel.

        Yoshindo Yoshihara is considered the foremost present-day swordsmith in terms of both popularity and skill – a true genius.