Katana Info

The katana is not only an excellent weapon but also a remarkable piece of art. While it was once an important weapon on the battlefield, the katana was gradually replaced after the introduction of firearms (tanegashima) in Japan. Following World War II, many Japanese swords were confiscated, pushing the katana even closer to disappearing. However, the Japanese have long regarded the katana as both...

Table of Content What is Japanese Dagger Traditional Japanese Dagger Modern Japanese Dagger What is Japanese dagger The dagger is called "tanto" 短刀 in Japanese, meaning "short sword." In ancient Japan, it was considered a type of katana because it was also made from tamahagane and forged using traditional methods. It was mainly used by samurai as a backup weapon for close combat and...

Table of Content Japanese sword naming system Names after the Owner Name after legends Names after the Sharpness Witty Sword Names Name after the sword shape Names after the best work by a bladesmith Cool Japanese sword names in real life Cool Japanese sword names from anime What is so interesting about Japanese sword names Just as there are legendary European swords like Joyeuse...

Table of Content What Does Daisho Mean? History of Daisho Who Could Carry a Daisho? The Correct Way to Wear a Daisho The katana is often called the soul of the samurai. Samurai carried their swords everywhere—they were always within reach, even while sleeping. You might have heard that samurai carried two swords, the daisho: one long and one short. This article will explain...

What is Katana Engraving When we admire a katana sword, we usually focus on the sharpness of the blade, the elegance of the hamon, the intricate fittings (koshirae), and the beauty of the saya. However, there's another element of the katana that’s just as remarkable: the engraving on the blade. Katana engraving, known as tōshinbori (刀身彫) in Japanese, serves both practical and aesthetic purposes....