Culture of Okutama

Nihonto, or Japanese swords are a general term for bladed weapons crafted using methods unique to Japan.
Japanese swords produced between 901 and 1595 are referred to as “kotō, or old swords.” Many of the most celebrated swards designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties were forged during this kotō period.

Since ancient times, swords in Japan have been revered as divine objects, used in Shinto rituals, festivals, and traditional performing arts.
A sword is also one of the three sacred treasures—known as the Imperial Regalia—passed down through successive emperors.

Japanese swords were designed with the purpose of protecting oneself and those important to them.
To fulfill such a role, they must inspire a profound sense of security. It is not merely their cutting ability that is essential; their craftsmanship must be so refined that even a single glance conveys their sharpness and power—only then can they be entrusted with the “duty of protection”.

In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the government enacted the Haitōrei (Sword Abolishment Edict). As a result, many swordsmiths redirected their expertise toward the production of kitchen knives and other tools. The sophisticated techniques developed for Japanese swords were thus passed down and transformed into the foundation of today’s world-renowned Japanese cutlery craftsmanship.

In modern Japan, swordsmiths are required to obtain a national certification before they can produce Japanese swords. At present, there are approximately 170 licensed swordsmiths in Japan. These individuals are recognized as highly skilled artisans who carry on a rare and valuable tradition.

Japanese Indigo dyeing is an ancient textile dyeing technique that uses dye derived from the indigo plant. The term can also refer to the exquisitely dyed fabric itself. The indigo dye is created through the careful fermentation of indigo leaves—a process that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

Indigo dyeing has been passed down through generations as an integral part of Japanese life and culture. Introduced to Japan from the Asian continent during the Asuka and Nara periods (6th-8th centuries), it was initially reserved for the garments of aristocrats and Buddhist monks. Later adopted by the samurai class, indigo dyeing became central to common culture by the Edo period (1603-1868).

Following the Meiji era (1868-), the rapid spread of chemical dyes led to the gradual decline of traditional indigo dyeing. In recent years, however, it has gained renewed attention due to growing appreciation for traditional craftsmanship, increased environmental awareness, and its distinctive beauty.

Characteristics of the Indigo Plant
Several rare varieties of indigo plants exist worldwide. Japan's "Tade-ai" (Persicaria tinctoria) is particularly prized, alongside "Indo-ai" (Indigofera tinctoria), "Ryukyu-ai" (Strobilanthes cusia), and European "Woad" (Isatis tinctoria).

The blue pigment extracted from indigo leaves is naturally insoluble in water. Transforming it into a dyeing medium requires a sophisticated fermentation process—a delicate art mastered only by experienced artisans over many years.

Features of Authentic Indigo Dyeing
The traditional "Aku-hakko-date" (natural lye fermentation vat method), preserved since the Edo period, uses "sukumo"—premium fermented indigo requiring 100 days of preparation—combined with natural lye, wheat bran, lime, and sake.

Master artisans monitor the living vat daily, responding to its subtle changes. There is even a saying among craftspeople: "humoring the indigo's temperament."

Using no chemical agents whatsoever, this pure process allows artisans to work bare-handed. The spent liquid becomes organic fertilizer, creating a complete circular system—a sophisticated harmony between craft and nature that reflects the highest environmental consciousness.