The Artistry of the Blade: The World of Master Swordsmith Miyairi Norihiro (Photos)

The wavelike hamon patterning on the blade is one of the distinctive properties of Japanese swords.

Miyairi at work in his forge in Tōmi, Nagano Prefecture.

Miyairi always wears a white work tunic when he is at the forge.

The fan-shaped tip or “kissaki” of the blade is one of the most important parts of a sword.

The dancing sparks of fire from the forge create a mystical atmosphere.

This imposing “ōdachi” (great sword) is 1.7 meters in length.

Miyairi’s lifework has taken him on an uncompromising quest for the ideal sword.

A “tōsu” knife featuring stunning “bachiru” patterns carved into dyed ivory.

The sword is repeatedly fired and then hammered to temper the blade.

Replicas of “Kara-tachi” swords made in the eighth century, inspired by Chinese models.

During the summer months, temperatures in the forge can reach over 40 degrees.

A recreation of a “Kara-tachi” from the Shōsōin treasure house.

Iron is wrapped in “washi” paper and secured with rope before being doused in ash and clay for firing.

The design of this “tōsu” was based on the patterns of treasures in the collection of Shōsōin.

After firing the sword, Miyairi checks the blade carefully to inspect the “hamon” patterning.

After finessing the shape of the sword on a sharpening stone, the sword is sent to a specialized polisher for finishing.

A view of snowy Yatsugatake from the forge in Tōmi, Nagano Prefecture.