Description

From the Katana Enthusiast

 

 

 

Katana Certificate of Authenticity and Registration

This Katana has been certified as a Hozon Token (保存刀剣) by the NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai), Japan’s most prestigious sword appraisal organization.

A Hozon Token (保存刀剣) is a Japanese sword that has been officially designated as “worthy of preservation” based on its historical value, craftsmanship, and overall condition.

The official certificate is included in the set.

 

 

All Real Katanas are registered with the Board of Education of the prefecture in which they are located.

Please note that the original registration certificate must be returned to the Board of Education prior to export, but a copy will be enclosed with your purchase.

 

 

 

Each part of the Katana

1. Toshin(刀身)

The Toshin refers to the entire blade of the Katana.

When evaluating a Katana, the blade’s length—and particularly its sori (curvature)—is a key point of appreciation.

The sori is what enables the Japanese sword to remain unbreakable and unbendable, while also allowing it to cut through objects with remarkable efficiency and minimal force.

If you’re interested in the scientific background of this, we explain the theory in detail in the following article:

Curved for a Reason: The Hidden Function of Authentic Katana’s Shape

 

【Toshin of This Katana】

Blade Length (Nagasa): 82.0cm
Width at Base (Motohaba) : 3.0cm
Thickness at Base (Motokasane) : 0.7cm
Curvature (Sori): 3.0cm

 

 

2. Hamon(刃文)

The Hamon is a white, wave-like pattern that appears along the edge of an authentic Katana blade.

There are two primary types of Hamon: the straight-line Suguha, and the more irregular, wavy Midareba.

While these can be further classified into many subtypes, the Hamon is a key element in sword appraisal, as it reflects the unique characteristics and techniques of the swordsmith.

It’s also one of the most visually enjoyable features of a Katana, making it fun to choose a blade based on the Hamon that resonates with you.

 

【Hamon of This katana】

 

 

3. Jigane(地鉄)

Jigane refers to the intricate surface patterns that appear on the blade of a Katana.

These patterns are created when tamahagane—steel made from iron sand, the raw material—is repeatedly folded and forged.

Each Katana reveals a unique Jigane pattern, offering a window into the artistry and technique of its maker.

 

【Jigane of this katana】

 

 

4. Nakago(茎)

The Nakago is the tang of the Katana—the part of the blade that extends into the handle.

It often bears a mei (銘), or signature, which may include the name of the swordsmith and the date of its creation.

【Nakago of This katana】

 

 

5. Tsuba (鍔)

The Tsuba is a metal guard positioned between the Toshin (blade) and the handle. Its primary function is to protect the wielder’s hand from an opponent’s blade during combat.

Conversely, it also prevents the hand from slipping forward onto the blade during a strike.

In addition, the Tsuba helps to balance the Katana by adjusting its center of gravity.

There are many different styles of Tsuba, ranging from purely functional to highly decorative.

Some are so exquisitely crafted that they are recognized as valuable works of art—with certain Tsuba designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government.

 

【Tsuba of This katana】

 

 

6. Koshirae(拵え)

Koshirae refers to the complete exterior mountings of a Katana, including the handle (tsuka), guard (tsuba), and scabbard (saya).

There are two main styles of Koshirae: Uchigatana Koshirae (打刀拵) and Tachi Koshirae (太刀拵). Because each Katana differs in length, curvature, and proportions, a unique Koshirae is custom-made to perfectly match each blade.

The Koshirae itself is considered an important work of art.

We hope you’ll enjoy appreciating it as a complete expression of the Katana’s beauty and balance.

 

【Koshirae of This Katana】

 

 

About Uda Kunimune(宇多国宗)

The Uda school was a group of swordsmiths founded by smiths who migrated from Uda District in Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture) to Etchu Province (present-day Toyama Prefecture).

 

 

Uda Kunimune is a swordsmith ranked Jyosaku(上作) in Suekoto(末古刀).

The Uda were a group of swordsmiths who originated from Kunimitsu(国光) at the end of the Kamakura period (1192-1333) and flourished through the Nanbokucho period (1392-1333) and into the Muromachi period (1333-1568).

Uda Kunimune 1st, who is said to have been active during the Eitoku period (1381-84), was the son of Kunimitsu(国光), the founder of the Uda school, and the younger brother of Kunifusa(国房).

Uda Kunimune name flourished for several generations, and works from the late Kamakura period to the Nanbokucho period are called Ko Uda(古宇多), while those from the Muromachi period are called Uda(宇多).

This sword has been authenticated by NBTHK as a late Muromachi period Uda Kunimune.

 

From the Gokaden Lineage: Yamato-den Roots

Many Japanese swords trace their roots back to one or more of the five major traditional schools of swordsmithing, known as the Gokaden(五箇伝).

These five traditions—Yamato, Yamashiro, Bizen, Soshu, and Mino—each developed in different historical provinces and are known for their distinct styles and characteristics.

This sword is rooted in the Yamato-den(大和伝) tradition.

The Yamato-den tradition is considered the oldest of the five schools, originating during the Nara to early Heian periods.

A defining feature of the Yamato-den tradition is that its swordsmiths were affiliated with temples. At the time, Yamato Province was the religious center of Buddhism in Japan. As warrior monks, known as Sohei(僧兵), began to emerge and engage in armed conflict, there was a growing need for a large number of swords to equip them. In response, temple-affiliated swordsmiths began producing blades in significant quantities, giving rise to the development and prominence of the Yamato tradition.

Because of this origin, Yamato-style swords were crafted with an emphasis on functionality and durability, suitable for actual combat.

Visually, they are often characterized by a straighter silhouette with shallow curvature and restrained, practical designs. Rather than aiming for flamboyance, Yamato swords exude a sense of austerity, discipline, and dignified presence, making them highly attractive to collectors who value historical depth.

 

Buyer’s Guife

Authentic Katanas are limited in number, and we hope each one finds its way to a collector who truly appreciates its value.

Before making a purchase, please take a moment to review our [Buyer’s Guide] for important information.

Buyer’s Guide

 

 

Shipping Information

1.Time Required for Delivery

This is a truly domestic Japanese sword that has never left Japan.

In order to export it overseas, we must obtain an official export permit from the Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japan.

It typically takes around 25 business days from the time of payment until the export process begins.

 

After shipment, delivery usually takes 7 to 20 days, depending on the destination country.

 

2.Shipping Charges

Shipping is free of charge.

We offer international shipping to most countries, with the exception of China and Russia.

 

3.Regarding Imports

Please check with your local customs office regarding regulations on importing Japanese swords.

We are not responsible for delays, rejections, or seizures by customs in the destination country.

 

For more details, please refer to our dedicated [Shipping Information] page.

Shipping Information

 

 

Payment

You may complete your purchase via PayPal or by making a direct bank transfer to our account.

All prices are tax-exempt and do not include Japanese consumption tax, as this policy applies to international purchases only.

Please note that customs duties or import taxes may apply depending on your country’s regulations.
Buyers are responsible for any such charges.

 

For more details, please refer to our dedicated [Payment] page.

Payment

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you have further questions, feel free to contact us directly.

 

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship authentic Japanese swords worldwide. Even if we do not have a delivery record to your country, we will do our best to arrange secure delivery.
Currently we do not ship to China or Russia.

 

Is shipping really free?

Yes. All listed prices include complimentary international shipping. No additional delivery fees will be charged.

 

How long will it take to receive my sword?

Because we must obtain export approval from Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs, it takes about 25 business days to begin shipping. Including transit time, please allow 1–2 months for delivery.

 

Are the swords already exported items?

No. Every sword we offer has remained in Japan since its creation and is being exported for the first time.

 

Are the swords legally exported?

Absolutely. We follow all Japanese regulations and obtain official export permits before shipment.

 

Do I have to pay customs duties or taxes?

Import duties or taxes may be levied by your country’s customs authority. Buyers are responsible for any such charges. Please check locally in advance.

 

Can I return a sword after purchase?

Returns and exchanges will not be accepted unless agreed upon between the Company and the User.

 

How do you select the swords you sell?

Our team consists of katana enthusiasts with backgrounds in metallurgy and history. We hand-select each blade for authenticity, condition, and cultural value.

 

How can I trust that the sword is real?

All swords are genuine antiques, many with registration or appraisal documents. We do not handle replicas or mass-produced blades.

 

Are these swords actually sharp and functional?

Yes. Our swords are authentic Japanese katana forged by traditional methods and possess a level of sharpness that has been revered for centuries. They are not decorative replicas—they are real blades capable of cutting. Please handle with the utmost care to avoid injury or damage.

 

I’m looking for something specific. Can I request it?

Certainly. Please contact us with your requirements—design, smith, school, era, condition—and we will be happy to assist.