Understanding The Parts Of A Katana Updated for 2025

Updated: January 1, 2025

The katana is a traditional Japanese sword with a long history and cultural significance. It is a curved, single-edged sword that is recognized around the world for its unique design. While the katana is a single weapon, it is made up of several distinct parts. Understanding the different components of a katana is essential for anyone looking to learn more about this iconic weapon.

The most important part of a katana is the blade. The blade is typically made from a specific type of steel known as tamahagane, which is created by folding and welding together several different types of steel. The blade is usually curved and has a single-edged tip. The blade is also divided into three sections: the shinogi, the kissaki, and the nakago. The shinogi is the ridge running along the blade, while the kissaki is the tip of the blade, and the nakago is the tang of the blade.

The tsuka is the handle of the katana, and it is usually made of wood and wrapped in a type of cord known as tsuka-ito. The tsuka is connected to the blade via two metal pieces known as the tsuba and the fuchi. The tsuba is the guard that protects the user’s hand from the blade, while the fuchi is the collar that connects the tsuka to the blade. Finally, the saya is the scabbard that holds the katana when it is not in use. It is usually made of wood and covered in a type of lacquer known as urushi.

The katana is an iconic weapon with a long history and cultural significance. Knowing the different parts of the katana is essential for anyone looking to learn more about this traditional Japanese sword.