News Discussion

Japanese Swords and the Making of Japan's First Foreign Swordsmith

Swiss swordsmith Johan Leutwiler’s journey began eighteen years ago, when he attended a sword exhibition in Switzerland that ignited his fascination with Japanese swords. At the time, Johan was employed at a steel factory, but the beauty and craftsmanship of Japanese swords stayed with him, sparking a dream to one day create a sword of his own. This passion led him to start practicing iaido and kendo, while also teaching himself Japanese. In 2011, at age 23, Johan finally traveled to Japan, where he was deeply inspired by the country’s rich history and traditions.

Though foreigners had not previously become swordsmiths, Johan was determined to pursue this path. In 2019, after completing his military service in Switzerland, he moved to Japan to train under master swordsmith Yoshihiro Kubo. As part of his journey, Johan undertook a demanding five-year apprenticeship and completed a workshop with the Agency for Cultural Affairs, ultimately becoming the first non-Japanese person to achieve swordsmith certification.

Today, Johan is working on his first sword in a workshop in Shobara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, fully committed to his craft. He aims to create a sword that resonates emotionally, even with those who may not know much about the art. Johan’s dedication and passion for Japanese sword-making shine as brightly as the flames of his forge, symbolizing his respect for Japanese tradition and his desire to honor its legacy.

1. 1. ignite　～に火をつける、燃え立たせる、感情を喚起する
   His passion for painting was ignited by a visit to an art museum.
2. 2. craftsmanship　職人の技能、職人技、熟練
   True craftsmanship requires patience, dedication, and skill.
3. 3. resonate　共鳴する、鳴り響く、響き渡る
   The artist’s work resonates with people of all ages.
4. 4. dedication　献身、専念、専心
   Achieving such a goal requires hard work and dedication.
5. 5. forge　鍛冶場、炉、（金属を）プレスする、偽造する、でっち上げる；少しずつ前進する
   In the forge, metal is heated to extreme temperatures before being molded.

1. 1. Why did Johan Leutwiler become interested in Japanese swords?
2. 2. What did Johan start practicing as a result of his interest in Japanese swords?
3. 3. How did Johan's journey to becoming a swordsmith begin in Japan, and who trained him?
4. 4. What does Johan hope to achieve with the swords he creates?
5. 5. What is something you are passionate about that you would like to pursue further? Why does it interest you?

18年前、地元で開かれた東洋の異国に伝わる刀剣の展示会を訪れたスイス人の青年は一目で魅入られた。

「日本刀の美しさ、鉄を自由自在に操る職人の技術に心を奪われました」

スイス南部バレー州出身の刀鍛冶、ジョハン・ロイトヴィラーさん（35）は、よどみのない日本語でそう振り返った。

当時、鉄工所で働いていたジョハンさん。「いつか自分もあんなに美しい刀を作ってみたい」。展示会で目にして以来、日本刀のことが頭から離れなくなっていた。まもなく居合道と剣道を始め、やがて独学で日本語を勉強するようになった。

23歳の時、旅行で念願の初来日を果たす。「長い歴史や伝統を持つ日本の文化に衝撃を受けました。ここが自分の居場所なんだと思いました」

しかし、外国人が刀鍛冶になった前例はなく、憧れるのが精いっぱいだった。転機は、母国での兵役を終え日本への移住を決意した令和元年。全日本刀匠会が開いた入門希望者の研修会で刀匠の久保善博さんと出会い、弟子入りが決まったのだ。

刀鍛冶になるには、刀匠の下で5年以上修業し、文化庁の研修会を修了しなければならない。ジョハンさんは2つの条件を満たし、外国人初の刀鍛冶となった。

今は、広島県庄原市の国営公園内にある工房で、刀鍛冶として1作目となる日本刀の制作に全力を注いでいる。

「刀に詳しくない人の心をも動かす一振りを作りたい」

その決意は、鋼を熱する火床の炎のように強く高く燃えている。