It’s funny how some hobbies sneak up on you like that. One day it’s just a random gift or impulse buy, and before you know it, your room looks like a mini museum. Maybe that’s part of the fun — you never really plan it, it just kind of happens naturally.

That sounds exactly like how I started too. My first real piece was a Nichirin sword, and I was blown away by how authentic it looked. The finish and the craftsmanship made it feel like something you’d find in a museum rather than a fandom store. What really drew me in was the fact that each sword design connects to the character’s personality — like the patterns and colors aren’t just random decorations. I think that’s what makes them special to collect, because every piece tells a bit of a story. I actually use mine for photoshoots and display setups, but I’ve also learned a few things from mistakes. Never store them in a damp room — even the decorative metal can start to spot over time. A microfiber cloth and a little bit of oil go a long way.

So I was never really into collecting anything until last year. My little brother got obsessed with Demon Slayer, and I decided to surprise him with a katana for his birthday. I figured it would just be some light plastic sword, nothing too fancy. But when it arrived, I was the one who ended up more excited than him. The blade had this incredible shine, and even though it wasn’t sharp, the craftsmanship made it feel like something straight out of a samurai movie.