Anatomy Of A Katana Updated for 2025

Updated: February 28, 2025

The katana is a type of Japanese sword used by the samurai class of feudal Japan. It is characterized by its distinctive appearance: a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands. But a katana is more than just a weapon; it is an item of art, crafted with great care and skill. To understand the katana, it is important to know the various parts that make up this iconic weapon.

The blade of a katana is its most important component. It is made from several layers of steel and is traditionally forged with a curved shape. The edge of the blade is sharpened by a process called honing, which gives it its razor-sharp cutting power. The back of the blade is called the mune, and the spine is called the shinogi-ji. The tip of the blade is called the kissaki.

The handle of a katana is known as the tsuka. It is usually made from wood, wrapped in ray skin and then bound with silk or leather. At the end of the tsuka is a metal cap called the tsuba, which serves as a guard to protect the user’s hands. The tsuba also serves as a decorative element, and many tsubas are highly ornate works of art.

The saya is the scabbard of the katana. It is usually made from wood and lacquered in black. The kojiri is the end cap of the saya, and the koiguchi is the mouth of the scabbard. The sageo is the cord used to tie the saya to the wearer’s belt.

The katana is a complex and beautiful weapon, and understanding its parts is the first step to appreciating its craftsmanship. With its distinctive shape and sharp cutting power, the katana is an iconic symbol of the samurai.