Japanese Samurai Sword | Katana

This weekend, I setup my studio for table top photography. I’m excited to shoot more teaware and share future tastings!

Samurai sword history dates back to over 1300 years ago, which is roughly divided into four main periods - Koto (the old sword period, pre 1596), Shinto/Shinshinto (1597 to 1876) Gendai (1877 to the end of world war II) and the modern period known as Shinsaku.

The katana is the sword most people picture when they hear the words "samurai sword." It is known for its slightly curved blade, long two-handed grip, and distinctive circular or rounded hand guard called a tsuba. Traditionally, katanas were worn edge-up through the belt, allowing samurai to quickly draw the sword when needed. Over time, the katana became one of the most recognizable symbols of Japanese warrior culture.