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Episode 1: The Sword Soul of Shimane

Episode 1: The Sword Soul of Shimane

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 Jack Maddox treks deep into the mountains of Shimane Prefecture, Japan, to apprentice with Yoshindo Yoshihara, one of the last traditional swordsmiths crafting katanas using techniques unchanged since the 12th century. Living in Yoshihara's remote workshop for several days, Jack experiences the physically demanding process of folding steel, applying clay for the distinctive temper line, and witnessing the transformative moment of quenching that determines a blade's success or failure. Through his immersion in this ancient craft, Jack explores how the Japanese sword represents not merely a weapon or tool, but an entire philosophy of craftsmanship where the pursuit of perfection takes precedence over efficiency, and where the relationship between maker and material borders on the spiritual.

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.