History of Japanese Swords

The original form of Japanese sword existed around 400 A.D., but the form generally well known today developed around 1000 A.D.

It was actually used as an auxiliary weapon in real combat to supplement the disadvantages of main weapons.

Around 800 ~ 1400 A.D, the primary weapon was a bow and arrow shot by mounted warriors.

During Sengoku period, spears of Ashigaru (common foot soldier) were the main weapon.

A matchlock became main weapon around 1500. Japanese sword has been secondary weapon to assist such main weapons.

1,Before 1000 A.D.

This direct sword without deflection is jokoto (ancient sword). Most jokotos found today have been dug up.

Since they were buried, rusts are common, and it is rare to see the jokotos that are preserved as a whole.

2,1000~1200 A.D.

This early Japanese sword shows some deflection and wider cutting edge.

This time period included growing power of samurai (warrior).

Sword smiths were collectivized, and various clans were formed to improve style and performance.

3,1200~1300 A.D.

The swords were hardened for samurais (warriors). The thickness and width of the blade were increased.

4,1300~1350 A.D.

The width of the blade decreased, but the blade became thicker. 5、1350~1400 A.DMassive infantry fights started to begin in this time period.

This encouraged making of large Japanese sword called odachi to defeat infantries.

Japanese swords around this time boast the best cutting performance of all time.

6,1400~1500 A.D.

Fights in mountain terrain became more frequent. To draw the sword faster, the level of deflection and the length were decreased.

7,1500~1550 A.D.

Trades between Ming (China) brought massive amounts of touken (cold steel). In order to fulfill the needs, sword making in Japan started to become commercialized.

Civil war in Japan caused even more demands, and the industry of Japanese sword kept developing.

8,1550~1600 A.D.

To counter matchlocks, the armor was strengthened. Battles in large scale became more frequent, so the swords this period were required to endure long time of battles.

Originally one-hand wielding swords were modified into two-hand wielder. Width and area became larger.

9,1600~1700 A.D

Swords made from this time period are called shintou, and the ones before this time are called kotou.

The use of shinai (bamboo sword) became main training in swordsmanship, and this changed the style of Japanese swords. This sword represents the style of Edo period.

10,1700~1850 A.D.

The demands for Japanese swords started to decline. Most swords made were for ornamental purposes.

11,1850~1870 A.D.

This time period included invasion from Europe and the United States. Luxurious style of sword changed to be more practical for real usage.

Types of the sword end