The 1999 San Francisco Bay Area Japanese Sword Show
The Northern California Japanese Sword Club Token Kai

Article and Photographs by Adrian Ko

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Meeting Mr. Leon Kapp

Many of you will recognize his work. He is the co-author of the book, The Craft of the Japanese Sword which he wrote with master smith Yoshindo Yoshihara of Japan.

It was a great pleasure meeting with Mr. Kapp, who came across as a kind and humble man in my conversation with him. Mr. Kapp's work has helped many understand and appreciate even more the craft of Japanese-sword making, and has also inspired many to take up sword forging and craftsmanship.

Jimmy Hayashi, Togishi

A Togishi is the Japanese term for a polisher of Japanse swords. A polisher must be able to discern the original intent of the smith and be able to restore a sword to its original (or better) glory.

With currently a five year waiting list, Jimmy Hayashi's demand is no mistake. When he first approached his teacher, the elder togishi told him he would never complete the apprenticeship. A full apprenticeship in polishing in Japan is ten years. Contrast this with bladesmithing being an apprenticeship of five years. Rather than become daunted, Hayashi took this up as challenge and completed his term in eight years. He is considered one of North America's finest polishers and commands the highest fees for restoring masterpieces.

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