KATANA

The first Katana (Japanese sword) appeared during the early Heian Period (around 700 CE), and were mainly used by the samurai (military nobility of feudal Japan from 1185-1600) up through the Edo period (1603–1868). The increased popularity of Katana amongst samurai came about because of the changing nature of close-combat warfare. The quicker draw of the sword was well suited to combat where victory depended heavily on fast response times. The Katana was worn thrust through a belt-like sash (obi) with the sharpened edge facing up. Ideally, samurai could draw the sword and cut the enemy in a single motion.

With the end of the Edo Period and the beginning of Meiji Period, Japan began a rapid process of industrialization and Westernization. In case of the military, the weapons were changed from sword to firearms. The use of Katana in Japanese daily life came to an end at almost the same time with the sword prohibition on 1876, which allowed only police and military personnel to carry them.  Many of the swordsmiths had to close their businesses, leading to the near extinction of the art form until 1906 when two well-known swordsmiths were appointed as imperial household artists, thus preserving the skills of the swordsmiths, a cultural legacy that has been passed on to the present day. Read more »

We at SENS are proud to present Katana swords carefully crafted in the Yoshihara workshop, led by Yoshindo Yoshihara, the best sword smith in Japan.

For over 200 years in the Edo Period (1603), Japan closed all but two of its ports and restricted contact with the rest of the world. A long period of national isolation led to the creation of fascinating traditions, foods, and arts unique to Japan. With peaceful days free from foreign influence, art thrived and culture flourished. It was during this time that most of what we consider defining components of Japanese culture developed, including sushi, the katana sword, and soba. The hearts and everyday lives of the people from this defining time is reflected in various artifacts preserved with time. Read more »

Browse our gallery to find Japanese antiques such as:

• ukiyoe （浮世絵） woodblock prints
• ceramics
• paintings
• musical instruments

With the emergence of islands dedicated to art such as Naoshima, and the growing popularity of Japanese manga and anime, the contemporary art scene has grown to become an important part of Japanese pop culture.

Japanese contemporary art is especially interesting in that many artists incorporate concepts of traditional Japanese aesthetic values to their modern work, while responding to social issues and personal reflections.

Browse our gallery to find works by influential Japanese contemporary artists. Delve deep into the world of each artist, and create a quiet space for self reflection.

Some of our featured artists:

• Takashi Murakami
• Yayoi Kusashi
• Tatsuo Miyajima
• Yoshitomo Nara

KIMONO

Kimono...

With a brilliant and rich history, pearls are loved by people around the world. The value of high quality pearls are reflected in the difficulty of cultivation and immense care that goes into their creation. SENS has partnered with some of Japan's most luxurious jewelers to introduce you to some of the highest quality pearls of Japan.

Akoya Pearls:

Akoya pearls are one of the most famous saltwater pearls in the world, known for their superior quality, near-perfectly spherical form, and genuine, radiant luster. Akoya pearls were first cultured in Japan, and are also the first pearls to be successfully cultured in the world. They remain a specialty of Japan, and are in fact commonly known as 'Japanese pearls.' Akoya pearls come in beautifully rich yet subtle hues of white, cream, champagne, and silver. Read more »

Obtain products from Japan that are difficult to acquire in your area through our personalized, first-class runner service. Whether it is a traditional painting or the latest technological device, let us do the research and find that perfect item to fit your needs, requests, and budget. 

How it works:

Through the inquiry form below, tell us what you are looking for, by when you want it, and how you want it delivered.

• send your friends and relatives gifts from Japan, wrapped and with a personal message (rush delivery service available)
• purchase and gift tickets to theatre performances, sumo tournaments, difficult-to-access museums, and more
• complete the look of your office/ restaurant/ hotel/ living room with a ceramic piece, Japanese painting, or perhaps flower arrangement created by Japan's finest craftsmen
• prepare unique party favors for your wedding with a little something from Japan