As events such as WWII led to mass produced swords, Japanese blades play more of a ceremonial role or are considered works of art. Due to modernization, not only did the samurai class lose their privileged position, swords were no longer a practical weapon for the military. Gendaito Era – Gendaito (modern swords) were produced from the mid Meiji period until today.As the craftsmanship and mountings of swords became elaborate, costly materials were used to produce sword mountings and fittings, making certain blades a symbol of nobility and status. Shinto and Shinshinto Eras – Beginning from the Momoyama to the late Edo period, new methods and trends in sword production emerged.

With more characteristics such as the hi (grooves), horimono (carvings), and other features, Japanese swords became stronger and lighter. Koto Era – Including the Heian, Kamakura, Nanbokucho, and Muromachi periods, Japanese swordsmiths made significant progress in their steelworking techniques leading to improved designs.As the first steel swords appeared during the kofun period, Japanese swords such as the tsurugi (ken) and jokoto tachi ( chokuto) emerged. With the earliest versions made of bronze and featuring straight blades, these doken were primarily used for ceremonial purposes. Jokoto Era – Discover the jokoto swords produced in this era.The development of Japanese swords can be categorized based on the different eras. Having evolved over the centuries, the blades we recognized today were perfected during the medieval period in Japan. Japanese swords have a rich and lengthy history. Starting with its history, symbolism, and significance in Japanese culture, we hope to bring our readers on an adventure to explore the different types of Japanese swords its different parts how they are made, identified, and appraised and many more. Today, these swords that once represented a samurai’s soul are now considered works of art and often highly sought after by collectors all over the world.Īt SwordEncyclopedia, our team has compiled a list of articles from our collection to help readers learn more about Japanese swords. As its design continued to evolve in response to historical events and battle tactics, so did the skills of the swordsmiths who strived to improve their art. Throughout history, Japanese swords served as a weapon in duels and battlefields. Chapter 7: Japanese Sword Identification.Chapter 4: Ninjato: The Sword of Ninjas.

Chapter 3: Katana: The Preferred Sword of Many.

Battle ready katana floral