Overview of the Nomenclature
Understanding the traditional Japanese terminology for katana parts enhances your appreciation of these legendary swords. Below is a quick reference guide to essential katana nomenclature.
For detailed explanations of each component, visit our complete katana parts guide.
Blade (刀身 - Tōshin)
| Kissaki (切先) | Blade tip / point |
| Ha (刃) | Cutting edge |
| Hamon (刃文) | Temper line / hardening pattern |
| Shinogi (鎬) | Ridge line along blade |
| Mune (棟) | Back / spine of blade |
| Sori (反り) | Blade curvature |
| Nagasa (長さ) | Blade length |
| Nakago (茎) | Tang (hidden part inside handle) |
| Mekugi-ana (目釘穴) | Peg holes in tang |
Handle (柄 - Tsuka)
| Tsuka (柄) | Handle |
| Tsuka-ito (柄糸) | Handle wrapping / braid |
| Same (鮫) | Ray or shark skin under wrap |
| Menuki (目貫) | Ornamental grip decorations |
| Mekugi (目釘) | Bamboo peg securing handle to tang |
| Fuchi (縁) | Collar / ferrule at handle base |
| Kashira (頭) | Pommel cap at handle end |
Guard & Fittings
| Tsuba (鍔) | Hand guard |
| Habaki (鎺) | Blade collar / wedge |
| Seppa (切羽) | Spacer washers |
Scabbard (鞘 - Saya)
| Saya (鞘) | Scabbard / sheath |
| Koiguchi (鯉口) | Scabbard opening / mouth |
| Kojiri (小尻) | Scabbard end cap / chape |
| Kurikata (栗形) | Knob for cord attachment |
| Sageo (下緒) | Scabbard cord / wrapping |
Want to learn more? Visit our detailed katana steels guide for in-depth explanations, functions, and quality indicators for each blade.