Program

Day 1 - June 12th

13.00 - 17.00

Opening day

First look of this years event!

15.00 - 15.45

Tsujii-demo

Demonstration & lecture shodō

BY Tatsuki Tsujii

This demonstration and lecture on shodō (Japanese calligraphy) offers an intimate introduction to the art through the legacy of master calligrapher Keiun Tsujii. Combining live demonstration with insight into technique, philosophy, and expression, the session reveals how each brushstroke embodies discipline, emotion, and Zen-inspired aesthetics.

16.30 - 18.00

meet & greet

Mingle with dealers and guests over drinks & small bites

18.00

Closing of the fair

Day 2 - June 13th

10.00

opening of the fair

11.00 - 12.00

John Wee Tom

Lecture 1 - The Evolution of Menpo

BY John Wee Tom

The Evolution of Menpo: From Protection to Vector of Creativity explores how Japanese samurai face masks evolved from functional armor into expressive works of art, reflecting changes in craftsmanship, form, and symbolism.

13.00 - 13.45

Demonstration & lecture shodō

BY Tatsuki Tsujii

14.00 - 15.00

Eckhard Kremers - Chairman of the NBTHK EB

Lecture 2 - Christian art in japan

BY Eckhard Kremers

“Namban and Christian Motifs in Tsuba and Japanese Art” explores how early Western and Christian influences shaped Japanese sword fittings, revealing how hidden religious symbols were embedded within tsuba design. By comparing Japanese objects with Christian ritual artifacts, the lecture uncovers how these motifs were subtly integrated during periods of persecution and cultural exchange.

15.30 - 16.15

Demonstration & lecture shodō

BY Tatsuki Tsujii

18.00

Closing of the fair

Day 3 - June 14th

10.00

opening of the fair

11.00 - 12.00

Lecture 3 - Late Bizen Tradition

BY Simone Di Franco

This lecture on Late Bizen: From Shintō to the Present explores the evolution of Bizen swordsmithing from the early modern period to contemporary practice. It traces changes in style, technique, and cultural context, highlighting how tradition has been preserved, adapted, and reinterpreted over time.

13.00 - 13.45

Demonstration & lecture shodō

BY Tatsuki Tsujii

12.30 - 14.00

Sword evaluation

A short evaluation by a team of Japanese specialists. (Short Sword Evaluation ticket required)

15.00

End of the fair

See you next year!