A famous samurai expert in katana (shinken) swordfighting, Miyamoto Musashi is one of Japan’s most important Kenshi (grand masters of ken-jutsu), whose exploits have inspired numerous stories. He is the archetypal medieval Japanese hero. Born in 1584 in Harima province, he was the second son of Munisai Shinmen, himself a katana expert, who orphaned him […]
In traditional Japanese sword making, the kashira is a part of the katana located at the end of the hilt (tsuka), opposite the tsuba (guard). The kashira is a decorative metal accessory that fixes the handle (tsukamaki) and counterbalances the blade. Making Kashira : The kashira is usually made of copper, brass or iron and can […]
The sageo of a katana is a cord that is used to secure the sword to the scabbard (saya) and to carry or hang it from the waist. The sageo is usually made of a strong, durable material, such as silk or cotton, and is often decorated with intricate patterns or colors that reflect the wearer’s […]
In traditional Japanese sword making, the kurigata is a part of the katana (tsuka) handle that is used to attach the saya (scabbard) of the sword. The kurigata is usually a small oval-shaped button or ring, made of wood or horn, attached to the end of the saya. It is usually located near the mouth of […]
The mekugi is a small peg made of bamboo or wood that is used to attach the sword blade to the hilt (tsuka). The mekugi is inserted into a hole in the tang of the blade and into the corresponding hole in the hilt, where it is secured by a metal pin (mekugi ana). What is […]
The menuki is a decorative element placed on the handle (tsuka) of a katana or other Japanese sword. The menuki is usually a small ornament carved out of metal, wood or other materials such as ivory or bone. It is inserted into the hilt and is visible on the sides of the tsuka, just below […]
The nakago of a katana is the tang, the part of the blade that extends into the hilt. It is an integral part of the sword and plays an important role in determining its strength, balance and durability. Here are some essential aspects of nakago: The shape : The shape of the nakago can vary […]
The mune is the back or spine of the blade of a katana or other Japanese sword. It runs along the centerline of the blade, opposite the cutting edge (ha), and is usually thicker and wider than the ha. Mune function: The mune serves several important functions in the construction and use of a katana. It […]