Katana is not merely a weapon

The katana is more than just a weapon—it is a potent symbol of Japanese culture that has significantly impacted various aspects of life in Japan over the centuries, from social rituals to martial arts. This sword, known for its unparalleled sharpness and beauty, has evolved from a tool of war into an artistic and spiritual icon. More than any other element of samurai gear, the katana embodies ideals of honor, precision, and refinement.

You likely recall certain scenes from Japanese films, games, or anime involving Japanese swords—the katana. For example, a duel between two samurai where one swiftly draws his sword and instantly deprives the other of life, appearing suddenly behind him. This is called nukitsuke, an essential move in Iaido and not just a figment of pop culture. Or, when the new head of a family ceremonially receives the ancestral katana after the father's death. This is known as Katana no Keishō. The new head of the family must then defend the honor of the katana, which is associated with the honor of the entire clan and ancestors—the samurai no tamashii. Or perhaps you remember those scenes where a samurai with a single swift cut splits a rock, bamboo, or tree? That traditional cutting test—Tameshigiri—also has its history and symbolism. Similarly, the specific, Japanese stand for the ancestral katana seen in films in a prominently displayed place in the home—katanakake. Or the scene where a samurai very slowly, with full concentration, puts on armor and fits the katana?—Chakusō.

As you can see, there is a wealth of symbolism in pop culture regarding the katana as a tool of death, a carrier of honor, and a work of art. We often don't fully realize that these scenes and objects don't come from nowhere, they aren't just made up by the creator of a film or anime. They are symbols with centuries-old traditions and deep symbolism. It's good to get to know them a bit closer.

The life of samurai was strictly regulated by numerous customs and rituals. This was probably inevitable—a trained samurai with a katana in hand was someone who could deprive another human of life in a blink of an eye, so ritualization and giving philosophical depth and symbolism to various actions in his life seem justified. This allowed the samurai to feel a greater sense of responsibility for his actions. Having such deadly skills without a deep sense of responsibility for them could be disastrous for everyone.

In today's article, we will take a closer look at the katana. We will discuss its nomenclature, history, and the structure of the whole and its individual elements. We will mention the material from which these swords are made and the process of their production, as well as the martial arts and handling of the katana. Finally, we will learn about various samurai customs related to the katana and its symbolism. We will tell the story of several of the most famous, legendary katanas, and we will try to relate all this also to our times and pop culture.

If this sounds interesting to you – welcome aboard!

What can we read from the name "katana"?

The word "katana" comes from the Japanese language, where it is written with the kanji 刀, which literally means "sword". This kanji often appears in combination with other characters, forming various concepts related to swords and bladed weapons.

First mentions

The term "katana" first appeared as a designation for a specific type of sword during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), and specifically appears in "Kokin Wakashū", a collection of Japanese waka poetry compiled around 905 AD under imperial patronage. In this work, the meaning of the word "katana" referred to a straightforward sword, which differed from the more ceremonial and ornamental swords like tachi. Before this era, swords were named according to their style and function, such as "tachi" (太刀), which were longer swords worn suspended blade down, typically used by cavalrymen.

In medieval Japan, the katana gradually became more practical and easier to draw quickly than the tachi, responding to changing combat conditions that required quicker reactions. The meaning of the word evolved with the development of sword-making techniques and changing tactical needs of the samurai.

Other names and terms:

□ Tachi (太刀): Originally used sword, longer and worn differently than the katana.

□ Uchigatana (打刀): A sword worn with the blade facing up, simply an earlier version of the katana, more adapted to infantry combat.

□ Wakizashi (脇差): A shorter sword worn together with the katana; together they formed a pair known as "daisho" (大小).

□ Ken (剣): A general term for a sword, mainly used in reference to straight or double-edged swords.

□ Nihonto (日本刀): A term referring to Japanese swords in general, encompassing a wide range of traditional swords.

□ Shinken (真剣): "Real sword" – a term referring to functional, combat Japanese swords, as opposed to replicas or training swords.

The word "katana" is now globally recognized and associated not only with the sword itself but also with various aspects of Japanese culture, including philosophy, art, and history. This shows how dynamically this word has transformed from a specific technical term into a symbol of widely understood culture and heritage.

Construction of the Katana

The katana is not only a weapon but also a work of art, each element of which reflects a certain thought and has a specific symbolism. Here are the key elements of the katana's construction:

Blade (刃, ha):

■ Nagasa (刃長): The length of the blade, measured from the tsuba (handguard) to the kissaki (tip).

■ Kissaki (切先): The tip of the blade. It can take various forms, such as chōkissaki (very long), ōkissaki (large), or ko-kissaki (small).

■ Yokote (横手): The line that defines the transition between the kissaki and the rest of the blade. It is a distinct, often straight line that visually separates the kissaki from the rest of the blade. Depending on the swordsmith's style, the yokote can be very pronounced or subtly blended into the plane of the blade, affecting the overall profile and aesthetics of the katana. This feature not only highlights the smith's skill in shaping steel but also influences the dynamics of cutting with the sword, adding precision and control during various cutting techniques.

■ Hamon (刃文): The temper line, a unique pattern on the blade resulting from the hardening process. Each swordsmith has their style of hamon, which can be straight (suguha) or wavy (midare).

■ Handle (柄, tsuka): The tsuka, or handle, is wrapped with sharkskin or ray skin (samegawa) and bound with a braid of silk or cotton (ito) for a better grip.

        ▫ Menuki (目貫): Decorative elements placed under the wrapping, often depicting motifs from nature or symbolism related to the owner.

        ▫ Mekugi (目釘): Wooden pegs that pass through the nakago (tang), securing the handle to the blade.

■ Tang (中心, nakago):  The tang of the blade that extends into the handle. It often has inscriptions (mei) containing information about the swordsmith (刀鍛冶: katana kaji) and the date of creation.

■ Habaki (鎺): A metal collar placed on the nakago just at the tsuba, ensuring the stability of the blade in the saya (scabbard).

■ Tsuba (鍔): A guard that protects the user's hand. It may be ornamental and often contains artistic and symbolic elements reflecting the personality or status of the owner. From a non-functional but heraldic or symbolic perspective, the tsuba can be considered the most crucial part of the sword. (We have written a separate article about it here: tsuba).

■ Saya (鞘): A scabbard made of wood, often lacquered and decorated. It protects the blade and allows for safe carrying of the sword.

■ Seppa (切羽): Metal spacers on both sides of the tsuba, ensuring proper fitting and stability of the assembly.

Katanas are made from special steel

Tamahagane Steel (玉鋼)

Traditional steel (玉鋼 - 玉 "jewel" or "pearl", and 鋼 (hagane): "steel") used for making katanas, produced in a tatara furnace from iron sands. It is characterized by high carbon content and results from a complex process that allows achieving both hardness and flexibility of the steel.

Tamahagane is produced using a special technique involving the mixing of iron sands with charcoal and baking at very high temperatures for several days. The resulting material contains different levels of carbon, which is important for the properties of the final product, as differences in carbon content in different parts of the steel allow for the creation of a sword that is both hard and sharp at the edge and flexible and resistant to breaking at the spine. Tamahagane is prized for its purity and quality, which are essential for producing optimal sword blades.

Katana Manufacturing Process

Traditional forging, steel folding, and tempering

1). Selection of steel: The process begins with choosing the right steel, usually tamahagane and its variants.

2). Folding and forging: The steel is forged and folded multiple times. The folding process, known as "tanren" (鍛錬), aims to eliminate impurities and even out the carbon distribution in the steel, increasing its strength. Traditionally, the steel can be folded from several to a dozen times, creating thousands of thin layers, strengthening the metal structure. It is here, in the tanren process, that the smith's mastery becomes apparent. 2). Forming and shaping: After multiple folding and forging, the smith gives the sword its desired shape. At this stage, characteristic features of the katana, such as curvature (sori) and blade grind, are formed.

3). Tempering: Tempering is another extremely important stage that gives the blade its legendary cutting properties. A special clay, called yakiba-tsuchi (焼刃土), is applied to the blade in varying thicknesses. This clay causes different parts of the sword to harden at different rates when immersed in water, creating a hard edge and a more flexible spine. The tempering pattern, known as hamon, is unique to each sword and considered a reflection of the smith's skill.

4). Polishing and finishing: The final appearance of the katana is achieved through careful polishing, which can last many weeks. Polishing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the sword but also reveals the hamon and can significantly affect the overall "personality" of the finished sword.

Legendary Smiths and Their Techniques: Masamune

Regarded as one of the greatest smiths in Japanese history, Masamune worked during the Kamakura period. His tempering technique, which allowed for the creation of blades with unmatched hardness and flexibility, was revolutionary. Masamune's swords are known for their beautiful, irregular hamon, which often takes a wavy form.

Muramasa

Another well-known, though controversial, smith was Muramasa, who worked during the Muromachi period. His swords were prized for their sharpness but also feared for their supposed "bloodthirsty" nature. Legend has it that these swords had a tendency to incite aggression in their owners. More on this legend can be read here: cursed katanas).

The Art of Wielding a Katana

□ Kenjutsu (剣術)

Kenjutsu, literally meaning "sword techniques," is a traditional Japanese martial art of sword fighting that originated in feudal Japan. This practice has its roots in the Kamakura period (1185-1333), when the first fencing schools were established to train samurais in the effective use of long swords. Kenjutsu encompasses a wide range of techniques, from basic cuts to complex combinations and forms (kata - 型 or 形).

In Kenjutsu, great emphasis is placed on stance, movement, precision, and tactical awareness. Practitioners learn various stances (kamae), cutting techniques (kiri), and blocking techniques (uke). Training is intense, with a strong focus on developing both physical and mental skills.

□ Iaido (居合道)

Iaido is the art of quickly drawing the sword, making a cut, and then sheathing it back. This art evolved from Iaijutsu, an ancient method of combat focusing on speed and precision. Iaido, as a more meditative practice, emphasizes the fluidity of movement and perfection of form aimed at achieving internal harmony.

The goal of Iaido is to perfect movements through the repetition of kata that simulate combat with an opponent. This practice also has a deep spiritual dimension, teaching humility, focus, and control over emotions.

The term "居合道" (Iaido) consists of three kanji characters that together describe one of the traditional Japanese martial arts focusing specifically on the swift drawing of the sword. Remember those scenes in movies or anime (they are quite common) with a samurai who stands calmly one moment and in the blink of an eye, draws his sword, strikes a blow, moves behind the enemy, and shakes the blood off the katana blade, while the stunned enemy starts bleeding profusely? Well, that's Iaido. It translates as follows: ► 居 (i) - this kanji can be translated as "to be," "exist," "stay," or "remain." In the context of Iaido, it refers to being in a state of readiness and awareness.

 ► 合 (ai) - this character means "joining," "harmony," or "fitting" (not to be confused with the popular "love" (愛), which is also pronounced "ai" but is a completely different character). In martial arts, it often refers to the synchronization or harmony between the mind and body. ► 道 (dō) - this character, meaning "way" or "path," is commonly used in the names of Japanese martial arts (similar to judo, kendo) and other disciplines aiming for spiritual and physical refinement. It symbolizes the continuous pursuit of perfection and a philosophy of life, not just a collection of techniques. It is the "path" that one follows.

Together, 居合道 (Iaido) can be interpreted as "the way of being in harmony," referring to the perfect integration of body movements with drawing the sword, so that every movement is smooth and natural. Iaido emphasizes fluid, controlled movements that result from deep concentration and meditation. In this art, training the body, manifested in lightning-fast movements, must be accompanied by training the spirit – manifested in superhuman composure.

□ Kendo (剣道)

Kendo, which means "the way of the sword," developed from kenjutsu practices and is considered its modern, sportive variant. Kendo was formally structured as a modern discipline during the Meiji period (1868-1912) as a way to preserve the traditions of Japanese martial arts in a rapidly modernizing society.

Kendo is practiced in a special uniform using a bamboo sword (shinai) and protective gear (bogu). Points are awarded for precise and correctly executed strikes to specific targets on the opponent's body, including the head, torso, and throat.

Symbolism of the Katana

The katana is not only a weapon of war but also one of the most popular symbols of Japan abroad. Importantly, it is not just an export item – the katana is genuinely a bearer of deep symbolism in Japanese culture.

For a samurai, the katana was more than just a weapon; it was considered the "soul of the samurai." The sword symbolized honor, readiness for battle, and the willingness to sacrifice one's life for one's lord (daimyō). Closely linked with the Bushido code, the katana served as a reminder to live by the principles of honor, courage, honesty, loyalty, and respect, and the ease with which its blade delivered death – a reminder of the great responsibility resting on every warrior.

Katana no Keishō

The ceremony of passing down the sword ("刀の継承" (Katana no Keishō), was a ritual in samurai families, emphasizing the importance of the katana not only as a weapon of war but also as a heritage of the family, carrying both the history of the ancestors' deeds and the values espoused by the clan. The sword, passed from father to son (less often from master to pupil), symbolized not only the continuity of the family but also the passing down of values, traditions, and samurai honor. The closest family members participated in this ceremony, and the handed-down sword was treated with great reverence, as a family relic carrying the spirit of the ancestors and as a guardian and defender of the family. In other words – handing the katana to the son meant transferring the family's honor to him. From that moment, it became his primary duty – to defend the family's honor.

During the sword-passing ceremony, if possible, an elder family member, usually the father or grandfather, handed the sword to a younger male (son, grandson), often in a specially designated place in the home or in a temple. Given the way samurai lived (after all, they were warriors in a state where wars were frequent), it was naturally often the case that the new family head would take over the katana after a suddenly deceased (in battle) father. Then, the sword was passed by the closest related male of the family, or a family friend. Alternatively, by the Daimyo.

This process was usually preceded by a series of prayers and offerings, aimed at calling for blessings for the new guardian of the sword. The sword was handed down along with stories of its history and the battles it had been involved in, intended to instill a sense of pride, responsibility, and belonging in the young samurai.

Every sword passed down in this ceremony carried the history of the family and was treated almost as a sacred object. In Japanese tradition, a sword is more than just a weapon; it is the "soul of the samurai" (侍の魂, samurai no tamashii). This ceremony emphasized that although samurai could die, their spirit – embodied by the sword – remained eternal, passing from generation to generation. Maintaining and caring for the sword, as well as mastering its use, were duties the new guardian had to fulfill, thereby honoring his ancestors and preparing to defend the family's honor.

In this way, the ceremony of passing down the sword in the culture of the samurai was not only a practical act of transferring a weapon but also a deeply emotional and spiritual experience that strengthened family ties and continued the traditions of the samurai.

Samurai customs related to katanas
 

Tameshigiri (試し切り) - Test Cutting

Tameshigiri is a traditional Japanese custom of testing the sharpness and quality of a sword, especially the katana. This practice involves using the sword to cut special targets such as tatami mat rolls, bamboo, or sometimes straw bundles, which simulate the hardness of the human body. Historically, this practice was also used to test swords on the bodies of convicts, although less controversial materials are used in modern times. The history of tameshigiri dates back to the Edo period, when samurais and swordsmen used this technique to demonstrate the effectiveness of katanas. The earliest written mentions of tameshigiri can be found in works such as "Buke Shohatto" (samurai codes established by Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi) and "Kōyō Gunkan" by Obu Toramasa, which describe the history and tactics of the Takeda clan.

In modern culture, tameshigiri is often depicted in anime and video games, highlighting both the skills of the characters and the significance of the sword in Japanese culture. For example, in the anime "Rurouni Kenshin," the main character, Kenshin Himura, performs tameshigiri, demonstrating his samurai skills. This scene is found in one of the early episodes of the series, where Kenshin defends the local population from bandits. In video games, tameshigiri appears, for example, in "Ghost of Tsushima," where the player, as the samurai Jin Sakai, can train and test their swords on specially prepared bamboo targets. The scene of cutting bamboo to demonstrate the sharpness of the katana is one of those images that most frequently appear in pop culture, in various places, such as the end videos/intros of Yoshimitsu in Tekken, or intros of fighting games like Samurai Shodown.

Katanakake (刀掛) - Katana Stand

Katanakake is a traditional Japanese sword stand that was an essential element of the decor in samurai homes, serving to safely store and elegantly display katanas, especially the family katana. This stand not only protected the precious sword from damage but also showcased it as a symbol of status and pride for the warrior. Displaying a katana on a katanakake in a prominent place in the home emphasized the respect that samurais had for their weapon, treating it as part of their soul and family heritage. Katanakake were often made of high-quality wood and richly decorated, further emphasizing the prestige of the owner and the importance of the katana.

The first mentions of using katanakake can be found in the work "Hagakure" by Yamamoto Tsunetomo, written in the early 18th century, which explores the philosophy and life of samurais.

In contemporary culture, katanakake appears in many film and television works that explore samurai themes, as well as in video games, where they form part of the set design. For example, in the anime "Samurai Champloo," one of the characteristic elements of the interiors where the characters are located are the katanakake stands with swords displayed on them. Similarly, in the game "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice," these stands can be seen in various locations, emphasizing authenticity and attention to detail in creating the historical world of the game. It is a very frequently occurring element that we see in countless numbers of games, anime, and even contemporary museums.

Chakusō (着装) - Dressing (Samurai Attire)

Chakusō is a ceremony of dressing in armor and katana, which was a recurring ritual in the life of every samurai, symbolizing readiness for action and respect for his warrior status. This practice not only involved properly placing the katana in the obi (belt) but also adhering to the correct order and technique of putting on other elements of the samurai attire, such as hakama or gi. This ceremony emphasized the spiritual and physical readiness for battle and served as a daily ritual confirming the discipline and dedication of the samurai. The method of dressing in armor and weapons was strictly regulated by the ritual, the order was predetermined, and the entire process required great focus. Both to ensure that a mistake in armor did not pose a risk in battle for the samurai, and to mark the seriousness and responsibility of being a death-bringing, trained warrior.

The topic of Chakusō can be found in "Budō Shoshinshu" by Daidōji Yūzan, written in the 17th century. This compendium of the samurai code of bushidō detailedly describes the etiquette and practices of daily life of samurais, including proper dressing.

In modern culture, Chakusō is often depicted in Japanese historical dramas and films, showing the ceremonial preparations of a samurai for battle. For example, in the film "47 Ronin," characters were shown dressing in traditional samurai attire in a manner consistent with the tradition of Chakusō. In the world of games, these techniques are explored in titles such as "Total War: Shogun 2," where animations of samurais preparing for battle often include elements of Chakusō.

Tsukamaki (柄巻) - Handle Wrapping

Tsukamaki is a traditional Japanese technique of wrapping the handle of a katana, which is important for comfort and control over the sword during combat. This technique involves the use of special strips of material, usually silk, leather, or cotton, which are tightly wrapped around the wooden base of the handle, usually covered with shark skin or ray skin (samegawa). Proper wrapping not only provides a solid grip but also helps absorb sweat, which could negatively affect the stability of the sword grip. The tradition of Tsukamaki is also a form of art, where the aesthetics of the wrapping are meant to reflect the beauty and balance of the katana as a whole.

The first mentions of this technique can be found in ancient Japanese texts on fencing and sword maintenance. Precise historical sources are hard to determine, but records from the Edo period (1603-1868) indicate that the skill of Tsukamaki had long been part of the samurai culture.

Today, Tsukamaki is still admired and practiced by lovers of Japanese fencing around the world, often showcased in museums and exhibitions dedicated to Japanese swords. In popular culture, especially in films and series about samurais, such as "Shogun" or "Samurai X," Tsukamaki is shown in scenes where the main characters prepare their swords for battle. In the game "For Honor," where players can embody various historical warriors, including samurais, the technique of Tsukamaki is clearly visible in the accurately modeled katanas.

Nukitsuke (抜き付け) - Quick Sword Draw

It can be confidently stated that nukitsuke is the most important technique in the arts of sword fighting with a katana, especially in Iaido, involving the lightning-fast drawing of the sword from the scabbard and making a cut in one smooth motion. The correctness and speed of this technique can determine the life or death of a samurai. Proper execution of nukitsuke requires not only excellent coordination of movement but also a deep understanding of the dynamics of sword movement and precise control over one's own body and mind.

The history of the nukitsuke technique is recorded in many classic Japanese treatises on fencing, including the famous "Heiho Kaden Sho" by the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi, who lived at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. Musashi describes nukitsuke as a fundamental technique in his book "Gorin no Sho" (The Book of Five Rings), where he emphasizes the importance of a quick and decisive first cut in samurai combat.

In the contemporary world, nukitsuke is often depicted in films, anime, and video games that explore Japanese samurai culture. I won't list specific titles – surely every reader has before their eyes the scene, so popular in films, games, and anime, where two samurais stand ready to fight, then one with one smooth and lightning-fast move draws the katana, carries out an attack, and kills the opponent, ending up standing with his back to the bleeding unfortunate.

Tōtogi (刀研ぎ) - Sword Polishing

Tōtogi, also known as sword polishing, is an ancient and highly valued technique for maintaining Japanese katanas, essential for preserving their sharpness, luster, and longevity. This process is performed by specialists called togishi (研ぎ師 – literally, master of sharpening), who use various grinding stones to gradually smooth and polish the blade, which is crucial both for aesthetics and functionality of the sword. Polishing not only highlights the beauty of the hamon – the unique hardening pattern on the blade – but also prevents corrosion and damage, allowing the sword to maintain maximum cutting efficiency.

The first traces of the tōtogi practice date back to the Heian period (794-1185), and this technique was perfected over the centuries, the effects of which are documented in numerous treatises from the Edo period. This tradition required not only technical proficiency but also artistic sensibility to properly bring out and preserve the distinctive features of each sword.

Today, tōtogi is still practiced by craftsmen in Japan, being a subject of fascination not only among collectors and practitioners of martial arts but also among visitors to museums and exhibitions dedicated to samurai art. In mass culture, the process of tōtogi is sometimes shown in films, even those less traditional and non-Japanese, such as "Kill Bill," where the image of the katana polishing process is depicted as part of the preparations for the final confrontation. The game "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice" also pays homage to this technique, depicting how the main character uses the services of a craftsman to improve his weapon.

Legendary Katanas

Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (草薙の剣)

Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, also known as the Grass-Cutting Sword, is one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan, alongside the Yata-no-Kagami mirror and the Yasakani-no-Magatama jewel. Legend has it that the sword was found in the body of the eight-headed dragon Yamata-no-Orochi by the storm god Susano-o. Kusanagi symbolizes strength and courage, and its story is deeply rooted in Shinto and Japanese mythology. The sword remains hidden from public view to this day, and its authenticity and appearance are shrouded in mystery.

Honjo Masamune (本庄正宗)

This sword, crafted by the renowned master smith Goro Nyudo Masamune during the Kamakura period, is considered one of the finest examples of Japanese swordcraft. The legendary sword was owned by many significant samurai and daimyō throughout Japanese history. Known for its unmatched sharpness and beauty, Honjo Masamune gained fame after the battle of Kawanakajima. The sword was lost after World War II and its current whereabouts remain unknown.

Dojigiri Yasutsuna (童子切安綱)

Dojigiri, or "Ogre-Cutting Sword," is one of the five famous swords of Japan, known as "Go-Hocho" (Five Treasures). Created by Yasutsuna, one of the oldest documented Japanese smiths, Dojigiri is most famous for its legend of defeating a great demon named Shuten Doji who terrorized the capital. This sword is prized for its effectiveness and beauty, as well as the mystical properties attributed to its ability to vanquish evil. It is currently housed in the Tokyo National Museum, where it is not only considered an important cultural artifact but also a symbol of heroic strength and courage.

Murasame (村雨)

Murasame, which means "Village Rain," is a legendary Japanese katana purported to have the power to summon rain. According to folklore, this sword belonged to a famous samurai who called upon the rain during droughts to relieve his people. Murasame has become synonymous with community care and the power of nature. The sword often appears in literature and pop culture as a symbol of mysterious powers and connection with the forces of nature. For instance, it appears in the game "Final Fantasy XV" as a hidden artifact that players can find and use as a powerful weapon capable of summoning rain.

Juzumaru-Tsunetsugu (数珠丸恒次)

Juzumaru-Tsunetsugu is one of the legendary swords of Japan, called "Tenka-Goken" or "Five Swords under the Heavens." The creator of this sword, Tsunetsugu, was one of the famous Masamune's disciples. The sword Juzumaru was known for its exceptional sharpness and beauty, and its name comes from the bead-like (juzu) patterns on its blade. Legend says the sword had the power to protect its owner from betrayal and misfortune, making it a sought-after artifact among samurais.

Summary

Katanas, which have been not only weapons of war but also works of art for centuries, continue to fascinate people worldwide with their history and unique character. Their impact on Japanese culture and history is undeniable, and each sword carries a story of masterful craftsmanship and the samurai spirit. Moreover, some katanas are so valued that their worth can exceed the price of luxury cars or even houses.

Samurais believed that their swords were living entities deserving of respect and care. This belief highlights the spiritual dimension of the katana, regarded as a reflection of the warrior's soul. This belief is even reflected in rituals and practices such as sword-cleaning and blessing ceremonies, which continue to be performed in Japan to this day. Many of these rituals are associated with Shinto, a religion that celebrates the harmony between nature, people, and objects.

Contemporary interest in katanas is manifested not only in collecting and ceremonies but also in global pop culture, where katanas often feature prominently in movies, games, and series. Thanks to their iconic form and mythical connotations, katanas have become symbols of honor, strength, and mysticism. They reflect not just technical perfection but also a deep connection between the craftsman and the material, compelling us to see them as more than just weapons - as true works of art.

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"Strong Japanese Women"

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    未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

  Mike Soray

   (aka Michał Sobieraj)

未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

Mike Soray

(aka Michał Sobieraj)

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