Samurai & Katana

Famous Japanese Swords and Their Stories

Famous Japanese swords and their stories: Mikazuki Munechika, Dojigiri Yasutsuna, Onimaru, and the great blades of history.

Where to see real Japanese swords today: museums, exhibitions, and what to look for when viewing authenticated nihonto.

The full history of the samurai class from the Heian period to their abolition in 1876 — and their enduring cultural legacy.

Samurai vs ninja: separating history from Hollywood. What these two roles actually were, how they differed, and where they overlapped.

Bushido — the way of the warrior — explained for modern readers. What it actually said, and what it became in popular culture.

Japanese samurai armor (yoroi) explained: the lamellar construction, components, regional styles, and how armor evolved over 800 years.

Tachi vs katana — what are the real differences? Compare blade curvature, wearing style, length, and historical use.

A complete guide to katana anatomy: blade geometry, hamon, kissaki, tsuba, and all the terms you need to understand Japanese swords.

What is a katana? Explore the history, construction, geometry, and cultural meaning of Japan’s most iconic sword.