Katana Hizenkoku Yoshimitsu Masterwork by Fukuda Mitsuo (Fujiwara Yoshimitsu) with NBTHK papers.

Katana Hizenkoku Yoshimitsu – Masterwork by Fukuda Mitsuo (Fujiwara Yoshimitsu)

The Katana Hizenkoku Yoshimitsu is a remarkable example of postwar Japanese sword craftsmanship, forged by the skilled swordsmith Fukuda Mitsuo, who signed his works as Yoshimitsu. This fine sword embodies the enduring traditions of Hizen-style workmanship, combined with the technical precision and refined artistry of one of Japan’s notable Showa-era smiths.

Sword Specifications

• Name: Katana Hizenkoku Yoshimitsu

• Swordsmith: Fukuda Mitsuo (pseudonym Fujiwara Yoshimitsu)

• Certification: NBTHK Hozon Token (Preserved Sword)

• Era: Showa Period (1974)

• Origin: Saga Prefecture, Japan

• Blade Length: 74.9 cm

• Curvature (Sori): 2.2 cm

• Width at Base: 3.4 cm

• Thickness at Base: 7.5 mm

• Width at Tip: 2.35 cm

• Weight: 996 grams

• Mekugi-ana (Peg Hole): 1

The sword is mounted with a Nanban-style tsuba featuring a lion and arabesque design, accompanied by its own NBTHK Hozon paper. The tsuba measures approximately 8.41 × 8.40 × 0.43 cm and weighs around 117 grams, reflecting a high level of decorative and functional balance.

About the Swordsmith: Fukuda Mitsuo (Fujiwara Yoshimitsu)

Fukuda Mitsuo (1912– ) was born in Saga Prefecture and became one of the leading swordsmiths of his generation. In 1932, he apprenticed under Koyama Nobumitsu, a prominent smith of the early Showa period. His early training under Nobumitsu provided a solid foundation in traditional forging techniques, which he later combined with his own technical innovations.

During the Second World War, Mitsuo served as a navy-commissioned swordsmith at the Sasebo Naval Arsenal in Nagasaki Prefecture, producing functional blades for Japanese naval officers. Following the war, he continued his work as an independent swordsmith, dedicating himself to perfecting the balance between tradition and modern metallurgy.

Career and Achievements

Fukuda Mitsuo was deeply committed to studying the properties of steel and iron, constantly refining his forging and tempering techniques. His pursuit of excellence earned him multiple Nyusen prizes at the prestigious NBTHK swordmaking competitions — specifically in 1955, 1958, 1968, and 1970.

In 1952, to commemorate Japan’s Peace Treaty with the United States, Mitsuo forged a special memorial sword, symbolizing both the rebirth of Japan and the enduring spirit of the Japanese sword tradition.

Artistic and Historical Significance

The Katana Hizenkoku Yoshimitsu stands as a testament to the refined skill and creative vision of Fukuda Mitsuo. The blade exhibits exceptional harmony between form and function — a hallmark of Hizen craftsmanship. With its elegant curvature, precise geometry, and masterful steel structure, this sword exemplifies the continuity of Japan’s swordmaking legacy into the modern era.

Today, Yoshimitsu’s works are recognized not only for their technical perfection but also for their deep cultural and historical resonance, embodying the spirit of postwar renewal and the unbroken lineage of Japanese artistry.