Iida Koendo (interview)

[Kanenaga]

Perhaps others have seen it before, but I just came across this YouTube video of an interview with Iida Yoshio san, current owner of the Iida Koendo sword shop in Tokyo. The shop deals mainly in high-level items, has been a family enterprise for several generations. The video is in Japanese with good subtitles, and gives some dealer perspective on the sword business, including a discussion on what defines a masterpiece -- linking to a thread on this forum last year:

 

I have spoken with Iida san on several occasions at DTI. He is a thoughtful person who understands and speaks good English, and who has been open to interacting with foreigners who demonstrate some knowledge of swords and sword etiquette. I found his views worth listening to.

 

 

[Lewis B]

Saw this a few days ago. Interesting interview. 

[Takezo]

Saw this when it came out as well, was great.

[Steve Waszak]

Wonderful video.  Thanks so much for sharing this, Les. 

 

I visited Iida Koendo in March of last year.  Great experience.  Iida-san and I had a very pleasant conversation.  As I focus more on tsuba than blades, he was kind enough to show me some beautiful sword guards, and I was able to acquire a superb Nidai Yamakichibei tsuba.  I very much look forward to visiting Iida-san again.