Vitality.Swiss has previously introduced the story of Johan Leutwiler, the Swiss-born craftsman who became the first foreigner to qualify as a Japanese swordsmith. This article continues that story, highlighting how his journey is now being recognized in the magazine published by the Cabinet.
In March 2026, Johan Leutwiler, a swordsmith from Switzerland, was featured in HIGHLIGHTING Japan, the English-language online magazine published by Japan’s Cabinet Office for an international audience. His story—one of dedication to a centuries-old craft deeply rooted in Japanese tradition—offers readers around the world a new perspective on Japan’s cultural heritage.
For readers interested in learning more about his journey to becoming the first foreign-born certified swordsmith in Japan, Vitality.Swiss previously explored his story in detail.
The following is a summary of an article from Highlighting JAPAN. We also invite you to read the original articles here: March issue, April issue, and May issue.
A Swiss Journey into the World of the Japanese Sword
Leutwiler first encountered Japanese swords as a teenager and was immediately captivated by their beauty and spiritual depth. After moving to Japan, he trained for five years in Hiroshima and, in 2024, became the first foreigner to receive official certification as a Japanese swordsmith. His blades bear the smith’s name “Mitsutsuna.”
“I was fascinated not only by the sword itself, but by the life of the craftsman who dedicates himself to making it,” Leutwiler explains. Encounters with renowned swordsmiths—including Kunihira Kawachi in Nara and his master Yoshihiro Kubo—deepened his understanding of the discipline, patience, and philosophy required to work with fire and steel.
His journey illustrates how cultural traditions can transcend national borders, becoming a powerful symbol of exchange between Switzerland and Japan.
Recognition in HIGHLIGHTING Japan
HIGHLIGHTING Japan is an online magazine published by Japan’s Cabinet Office to introduce the country’s culture, society, and innovation to international audiences. Through a wide range of themes, it aims to deepen global understanding of Japan and inspire curiosity about the country.
The feature on Leutwiler offers a unique perspective on Japanese craftsmanship: the view of an outsider who chose to dedicate his life to preserving one of Japan’s most iconic traditions.
Being featured in the magazine also reflects the significance of his story as one that Japan wishes to share with the world. His dedication to the art of swordmaking—and his respect for the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship—resonates strongly with international readers.
Craftsmanship as a Dialogue Between Cultures
For Leutwiler, the path of the swordsmith is more than a technical profession. It is, as he describes it, “a dialogue with oneself.” The craft connects past, present, and future, embodying the transmission of cultural values across generations.
His determination to pursue mastery—embracing both discipline and failure—offers a compelling example of how deeply rooted cultural traditions can inspire people far beyond their country of origin.
In this sense, his work also represents a meaningful dialogue between Switzerland and Japan, reflecting the broader spirit of exchange and cooperation that the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan seeks to foster between the two countries.
Cultural Experience and Global Curiosity
Interest in Japan continues to grow worldwide, particularly in experiences that offer deeper engagement with regional traditions and cultural heritage. Figures like Johan Leutwiler serve as cultural bridges, encouraging a form of travel and exchange that goes beyond sightseeing to foster genuine understanding.
The story connecting Switzerland and Japan through the art of the Japanese sword carries lessons that resonate far beyond the workshop. Tradition and spirit, learning across borders, and the preservation of cultural heritage—Leutwiler’s journey offers inspiration to audiences around the world and invites them to discover Japan’s culture on a deeper level.
