Johan, Trial by fire
Meet Johan Leutwiler, the first foreigner to become a recognized Japanese swordsmith
Hailing from Monthey in the south-western canton of Valais, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Johan Leutwiler discovered his passion for Japanese swords at the age of 17. Since then, he has dedicated over half his life to mastering this ancient craft. Discover his story in the interview below
Starting his journey in Shobara, Hiroshima, he completed a five-year apprenticeship with a renowned Japanese swordsmith and received a license to craft swords from the Agency for Cultural Affairs in 2024. His aspiration is to craft works of art that touch people’s hearts and showcase the excellence of traditional craftsmanship.
Johan is also an ambassador for Vitality.Swiss, the communication program of the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan.
Discover his story in the interview below
A Spark of a Dream: born in Switzerland
Discover the story of Johan’s journey into the world of metalworking, starting from his early inspiration to his decision to pursue a career in swordsmithing.
First, please tell us about yourself, and why you decided to work with metal.
Johan
My interest in metalworking was sparked back in junior high when I saw my older brother working in a forge. I was inspired by the craftsmen's ability to process hard metals with precise techniques, prompting me to begin an apprenticeship.
What inspired you to pursue an internship for swordsmithing? Was there a particular moment or experience that ignited your interest?
Johan
When I first laid eyes on a Japanese sword, I was immediately mesmerized by its sleek appearance. Being aware of the exceptional craftsmanship of Japanese swordsmiths throughout history, and specializing in metalwork myself, I sought to challenge myself by crafting Japanese swords.
Let's explore more about you! What is your favorite dish, and could you share some of your other interests besides Japanese swordsmithing?
Johan
I enjoy a wide variety of foods, but if I had to choose a favorite dish, I would lean towards Chinese-style Japanese cuisine. Apart from swordsmithing, I find joy in domestic travel, dining out, and when time allows, I indulge in walking, photography, and bouldering.
Trial by fire: A Journey Steeped in Tradition
Diving into the world of swordsmithing in Japan involves working closely with a mentor and delving deep into traditional techniques. Discover how for Johan, each day of his apprenticeship was steeped in tradition and respect for an art form that has been passed down for over a millennium.
How was it working with your mentor? What insights or lessons have you learnt during your stay in Japan?
Johan
Working under my master had its enjoyable and challenging moments. Spending five years as his sole apprentice was a profound learning curve. Despite the initial intimidation of swordsmithing, I was warmly welcomed by everyone, regardless of being a foreigner.
Japanese swords have existed for over 1000 years. Becoming a swordsmith made me realize the profound importance of Japanese swords throughout history for the Japanese people. They have significantly influenced various aspects of Japanese culture, including language and Shinto mythology. Even today, many Japanese use words derived from swords in their daily lives without realizing it.
Japanese swords have existed for over 1000 years. Becoming a swordsmith made me realize the profound importance of Japanese swords throughout history for the Japanese people. They have significantly influenced various aspects of Japanese culture, including language and Shinto mythology. Even today, many Japanese use words derived from swords in their daily lives without realizing it.
Can you describe the traditional techniques and methods you learned in Japan? How do they differ from those in Switzerland?
Johan
The art of sword smithing has remained largely unchanged for over 1000 years, so we still use the same methods as swordsmiths in the Heian period. Swordsmiths have unique skills that are exclusive to this craft, emphasizing the importance of passing down knowledge to future generations. The techniques in Western countries are vastly different from those in Japan, as sword smithing is a unique and traditional craft in Japan.
Can you walk us through a typical day for you?
Johan
Due to the intense heat generated in our work, we primarily do forging in the morning. We prioritize the tasks requiring the highest temperature early in the day. In the afternoon, we focus on shaping, polishing, and finishing the swords. On sunny days, we also cut and sort charcoal outside for the forging work.
Nurturing the Craft: Sustainability and Tradition in Swordsmithing
Sustainability in swordsmithing goes beyond maintaing a healthy life or sustainable practices; it also means ensuring the continuation of tradition. Discover Johan thoughts on finding the right the balance between tradition and innovation to maintain the legacy of Japanese swordsmiths.
Becoming a blacksmith can be tiring, do you find it challenging?
Johan
I have been a craftsman since I was 14, so there haven't been significant changes for me. However, those starting from scratch in sword smithing may need some training. It requires patience to work continuously in front of the fire, hammering and dealing with flying sparks.
What measures are being taken to sustain this traditional art form ?
Johan
To train the next generation of swordsmiths, the Agency for Cultural Affairs provides support. Apprentices can take part in a 3-day training session twice a year, where they have the freedom to work. Some swordsmiths receive direct support from the Agency, ensuring the continuity of successor training. With about 200 swordsmiths currently, the new generation needs to innovate to prevent further decline.
Have your general views on nature and the world changed between your arrival in Japan and the present?
Johan
There are numerous 1000-year-old swords still in existence today. Therefore, Japanese swords are believed to have a lifespan of 1000 years. Today, people are focused solely on innovating for the future, neglecting the importance of the past. In sword smithing we ask ourselves : "Can we build something that will last for a thousand years?
Mastering an Ancient Craft: A Journey of Cultural Immersion
Discover how Johan embraced the role of a Japanese swordsmith as more than just a career choice.
What does it mean for you to be a Japanese swordsmith?
Johan
Becoming a swordsmith was not about starting an apprenticeship as a Swiss person, but about wanting to improve my skills as a craftsman. I am grateful to my master for accepting me regardless of my nationality. While the sword industry is known to be exclusive, foreigners can enter it like anyone else. However, in my case, the condition was to become a permanent resident. I respect everyone's feelings about not letting sword-making techniques leave Japan.
I was able to start to learn from my master because I had intended to live permanently from the beginning. For me, to be a swordsmith is to be the successor and representative of a technique that has existed for 1,200 years, so I will never be complacent, and I will devote myself to it every day, with an attitude that would make my predecessors who created the sword industry proud.
I was able to start to learn from my master because I had intended to live permanently from the beginning. For me, to be a swordsmith is to be the successor and representative of a technique that has existed for 1,200 years, so I will never be complacent, and I will devote myself to it every day, with an attitude that would make my predecessors who created the sword industry proud.
Why do you want to become a Japanese citizen?
Johan
I love Japan and it is natural for me to want to buy a house with my girlfriend here and work as a Japanese sword smith. Since I will be in Japan forever, there is no reason to keep my Swiss citizenship, on the contrary, being Swiss means I have to renew my visa every year.
Bridging Cultures: A Swiss Outlook on Japanese Swords
We touch upon Johan’s hope to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the intricate artistry of Japanese swordsmithing beyond its borders.
You have no plans to return to Switzerland, but do you plan to make use of your international outlook? Do you expect more people, including abroad, to be interested in your work?
Johan
While I will be living in Japan, I plan to visit Switzerland to spread awareness about the art of sword-making. Currently, there is more interest from foreigners than Japanese people in Japanese swords. I feel that as a foreigner, it is important for me to contribute to the Japanese sword industry and to promote it in Switzerland and Europe. As a concrete plan, I would like to bring not only myself but also one or two of my fellow swordsmiths to Switzerland and organize a modern swordsmith exhibition in Geneva, which has never been held before.
Forging Ahead: The Path Forward as a Swordsmith
With his training complete, discover Johan’s plans for the future.
What are your plans now that you have finished your internship?
Johan
I have completed my training and am currently working as a swordsmith. I create pieces for competitions, take orders, participate in lectures and events, and engage in a wide range of activities.
What advice would you give to someone who has a passion for Japan and wants to follow a similar path as you?
Johan
Everyone's path is different, but if you are coming to Japan, I recommend that you get a good grasp of the Japanese language. Japanese is not just a language, but a language with hundreds of years of culture, customs, and traditions that I believe are essential to understanding and fitting in. I think it is essential to understand and blend in with the people around you, and interacting with Japanese people while being able to speak Japanese is an irreplaceable daily learning experience for me.
Finally, is there anything you would like to share with our readers? Any anecdotes, observations, or messages about your experiences in Switzerland and Japan?
Johan
Don't be restrained by stereotypes! Experience and see things for yourself!