The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature, history and culture. This episode looks at words related to swords. Since ancient times, the evolution of Japanese swords has followed a unique path. During the rule of the samurai, or bushi, swords were a part of daily life, and this resulted in many Japanese expressions related to swords. From his home in Kyoto Prefecture, poet and literary translator Peter MacMillan guides us through these words.