Kantou no Tachi in Japanese Katana terminology
What is Kantou no Tachi in Japanese Katana terminology?
"Kantou no Tachi" (環頭大刀) refers to one of the styles of ancient swords that were transmitted from China during the middle of the Kofun period. The distinctive feature of this style is that the head of the handle forms a large ring. Some of these swords also feature openwork carvings of dragons and phoenixes. This style is also known by another name, "Komatsurugi" (高麗剣).