The Process of Japanese Sword Scabbard Lacquering by Master Mitsuhide Koyama - Suigenkyo

The Process of Japanese Sword Scabbard Lacquering by Master Mitsuhide Koyama - Suigenkyo

In this video, we feature Mitsuhide Koyama, a master lacquer artist from Niigata Prefecture who specializes in the traditional lacquering of Japanese sword scabbards (Saya-nuri).

As a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association, Mr. Koyama applies his exquisite lacquering techniques to the scabbards of Koshirae—the ornate mountings that turn Japanese swords into breathtaking works of art. Watch as he meticulously applies coats of lacquer to a scabbard, revealing the silent precision and timeless beauty of authentic Japanese craftsmanship.

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Check out the videos below to see the work done before lacquering the scabbard—featuring the blade, habaki, scabbard, and handle wrapping. Hope you enjoy them!

Blade: • How Japanese samurai swords were made. The...
Habaki: • The Process of Making a Japanese Sword Hab...
Scabbard: • The Process of Making a Japanese Sword Sca...
Handle Wrapping (Tsukamaki): • The Secret of the Samurai Grip: The Ancien...

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【Chapter】
00:00 - Introduction
00:22 - Applying Washi Paper
03:11 - Base Coating
07:02 - Black Lacquering & Wet Sanding