Metalwork has long been prized for its durability and gorgeous appearance. In Japan, bronze swords and harnesses were made from the Yayoi period (10th century BCE–mid-3rd century CE) based on techniques introduced from China and Korea.

As Buddhism spread, metalworking advanced, producing temple fittings and ritual objects. Eventually, traditional Japanese copperware, including hammered copper vessels, became highly refined, while Japanese cast iron—especially Nambu ironware—gained renown for its strength and elegant simplicity.