Kami in Japanese Katana terminology
What is Kami in Japanese Katana terminology?
The term "Kami" (上身, かみ) refers to the upper part of the blade of a Japanese sword, extending from the notch (Machi) to the tip (Kissaki). This is the part of the sword that is sharpened and is used for cutting. On the other hand, the part below the notch is called the "Nakago" (茎, なかご), which is the tang of the sword. The tang is the part of the sword that is usually encased within the handle (Tsuka), and it is not sharpened. This terminology is used to describe the specific parts of a Japanese sword, each with its own unique characteristics and functions.