Samurai culture can be said to represent the epitome of Japan in its combination of strength and beauty.

Left: Blade with so-shu forging pattern and dragon; Right: sharkskin scabbard with red lacquer
Left: Blade with so-shu forging pattern and dragon; Right: sharkskin scabbard with red lacquer

One of the most well-known symbols of the samurai is the katana sword, a distinct blade whose forging has been refined by skilled artisans for over 1,000 years.