Swiss Pavilion | Johan, Trial by fire

For centuries, Japanese sword-making has been an art form rooted in precision, patience, and deep cultural significance. Few foreigners have had the opportunity to immerse themselves in this ancient craft, but Johan Leutwiler, a Swiss-born blacksmith and Vitality Ambassador, has become the first foreigner to be officially recognized as a Japanese swordsmith. From a childhood fascination with metalwork to discovering his passion for Japanese swords at the age of 17, Johan has dedicated over half his life to mastering this ancient craft. Discover this journey of dedication, respect, and cross-cultural exchange below.

From Switzerland to Japan: A Passion for Steel and Fire

Johan’s path to becoming a bladesmith was anything but conventional. Growing up in the small town of Monthey in the south-western canton of Valais, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, he was captivated by the process of shaping metal, leading him to pursue blacksmithing professionally. His interest in traditional Japanese swordmaking eventually drew him to Japan. Under the guidance of a renowned Japanese swordsmith, he refined his skills and deepened his understanding of this time-honored tradition through a five-year apprenticeship in Hiroshima. His dedication was recognized in 2024 when he received his sword-making license from the Agency for Cultural Affairs. 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

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 what sparked your interest to work with metal and swords ?

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 in metalwork in Switzerland. I was 17 when I first laid eyes on a Japanese sword, and 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 learning how to craft Japanese swords.

How was your apprenticeship? Could you walk us through a typical day for you ?

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.
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.

You’ve spent several years mastering this craft—how have you changed since starting your apprenticeship in Japan? What insights or lessons have you learnt during your time as an apprentice?

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.

Becoming a swordsmith also made me realize the profound importance of Japanese swords for the Japanese people throughout history. 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.

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?"

Could you tell us more about you ? Like your favorite dish and 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.

Sustainability in swordsmithing goes beyond maintaing a healthy life or sustainable practices; it also means ensuring the continuation of tradition. Discover Johan thoughts on what it means to be a Japanese swordsmith.

What measures are being taken to sustain this traditional art form ?

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.
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.

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.
This is also why I wish to become a Japanese citizen. 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.

What are your plans now that you have finished your internship? You have no plans to go back to Switzerland but do you plan to make use of your international outlook?

Johan

Having completed my training, I am currently working as a swordsmith in Hiroshima. I create pieces for competitions, take orders, participate in lectures and events, and engage in a wide range of activities. 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.

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!

Bridging Two Cultures Through Craft

Johan Leutwiler’s journey exemplifies the power of cultural exchange and the pursuit of excellence. His story is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship and the connections it fosters across borders. Whether in Switzerland or Japan, we hope that the story of his dedication to his craft continues to inspire new challenges and new beginnings.