ICHIGO ICHIE

The Soul of Steel: Forging the Samurai Spirit

Step into Okuizumo, the mythical cradle of the Japanese sword. This bespoke journey traces the genesis of Tamahagane—the world's purest steel—taking you from the fires of ancient furnaces to the razor-sharp soul of the samurai.

Deep in Okuizumo, the ancient roar of the Tatara still births Tamahagane—the soul of the Japanese sword. This is a land carved by iron, where former mining grounds have healed into lush rice fields. Here, the spirit of the samurai breathes in the eternal cycle of fire and earth.

Sample Itinerary

Wander through the only remaining Tatara village in Japan. Stand beneath the soaring roof of the "Takadono" and envision the days when flames roared to birth the precious steel.

Experience the magic of creation in a private "Mini-Tatara" session. Transform iron sand into steel with your own hands and craft a personal accessory from raw Tamahagane.

Visit the majestic estate of the Matsue Clan’s supreme Iron Masters. The rows of white-walled storehouses stand as a silent testament to a dynasty that shaped the very landscape.

Trace the lineage of the Japanese sword back to its fiery origins. At this museum dedicated to the ancient Tatara ironmaking tradition, you will stand before a life-size model of the furnace that once dominated these mountains. Witness the raw power of the "Kera" (iron bloom) and the precious Tamahagane extracted from it, understanding the monumental effort required to birth the steel of a samurai's soul.

Move beyond the sword as a static art object to witness its visceral reality as a weapon. In this rare private performance by the Shigeyoshi Samurai Dojo, the lightning-fast strikes of Iai and Kenjutsu reveal the lethal precision and spiritual discipline that defined the true samurai—a raw, martial authenticity far removed from modern sport.

In the quiet dignity of the historic Itohara residence, sit with Master Yoshihiro Kubo—a "Mukansa" swordsmith, holding the highest accolade in the craft. This is an exclusive privilege to physically hold a masterpiece in your hands. Guided by the creator himself, you will feel the weight, balance, and "folded steel" texture, connecting directly with the spirit of the blade.

Highlights

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Journeys of
Inspiration

A selection of fully customizable journeys, crafted to inspire your next unforgettable moment in Japan.