What is Gendaitou in Japanese Katana terminology?

"Gendaitou" (現代刀) refers to Japanese swords made after the Haitourei Edict in 1876 (Meiji 9), which marked the end of the Shinshintou period. After this edict, the production of Japanese swords transitioned into the Gendaitou period.

In 1945 (Showa 20), the production of swords was prohibited due to the Potsdam Declaration. However, from 1954 (Showa 29), the production of swords made using traditional Japanese sword-making techniques was permitted again, with the approval of the Agency for Cultural Affairs.

This period of sword-making history reflects the significant changes in Japanese society and culture, from the modernization of the Meiji era to the post-war period. Despite the challenges and restrictions, the tradition of Japanese sword-making was preserved and continues to this day."