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Ships within 48/72h
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Inspired by Japan
Imperial Katana – 皇影刀
Note: Engraving placement and orientation may vary by blade model (hamon, geometry, and flat area).
Why choose us
Ships within 48/72h
Forged Blade
Collector Quality
Trusted Globally
Inspired by Japan
Imperial Katana – 皇影刀
Specifications
Handcrafted Imperial Katana in T10 tool steel with authentic choji hamon and dragon engravings near the habaki. Full tang, sharpened, chu-kissaki. Copper tsuba with dragon-cloud openwork in gold, brass habaki, black cotton ito over genuine rayskin, black lacquered saya with golden dragon-and-koi relief carvings, genuine horn koiguchi and kojiri, thick black sageo with brown accents. Includes ornate display stand. T10, genuine choji hamon, genuine rayskin, genuine horn, dragon engravings, dragon saya — the Imperial earns its name at every specification.
Imperial Katana Specifications
| Blade Steel | T10 Tool Steel |
| Hamon | Authentic Choji (clove pattern — traditional clay tempering) |
| Blade Feature | Dragon engravings near habaki |
| Kissaki | Chu-kissaki |
| Construction | Full Tang, Handcrafted, Sharpened |
| Overall Length | 105 cm / 41 in |
| Blade Length | 72 cm / 28 in |
| Blade Width | 3.2 cm / 1.2 in |
| Blade Thickness | 0.7 cm / 0.27 in |
| Handle Length | 30 cm / 11.8 in |
| Tsuba (Guard) | Copper — gold, dragon-cloud openwork relief |
| Habaki | Brass — polished gold |
| Ito | Black cotton |
| Rayskin (Same) | Genuine |
| Koiguchi & Kojiri | Genuine horn |
| Sageo | Thick black cotton with brown accents |
| Saya (Scabbard) | Glossy black lacquered wood — golden dragon-and-koi relief carvings |
| Includes | Katana + saya + ornate dragon display stand |
Authentic Choji Hamon — Clove Pattern
The hamon on the Imperial katana is choji (丁子) — the clove-bud pattern where rounded shapes rise from the cutting edge in irregular clusters, one of the most prized hamon styles in Japanese swordsmithing. Choji requires precise and varied clay application during tempering: different thicknesses create the bulging clove shapes that define the pattern. It is more difficult to produce than straight suguha or simple midare, and historically associated with prestigious Bizen-tradition smiths. The Imperial katana and the Hizakura are the only two blades in our catalog with authentic choji hamon.
Dragon Engravings & Chu-Kissaki
Dragon engravings (horimono) appear near the habaki — the mythological creature rendered into the polished T10 surface. The blade tip is chu-kissaki (medium point) — the standard and most versatile kissaki geometry for balanced cutting and thrusting. The T10 tool steel provides 60-62 HRC hardness, the premium grade that matches the ornate fittings. Dragon engravings on the blade connect to dragon carvings on the saya — the same creature appearing on steel and wood, the mythology running through the entire sword.
Dragon-and-Koi Saya
The saya is glossy black lacquered wood with golden relief carvings — a dragon and koi fish wrapping the scabbard's length. The koi (鯉) swimming alongside the dragon references the legend of koi leaping the Dragon Gate waterfall and transforming into dragons — a metaphor for merit-based achievement, the warrior who earns rank through effort rather than birth. Genuine horn koiguchi and kojiri cap both ends — the traditional premium material, denser and more durable than lacquered wood fittings.
Genuine Rayskin & Gold Fittings
Black cotton ito wraps over genuine rayskin (samegawa) — the natural nodular texture visible through the cord crossings. White menuki provide grip accents beneath the wrapping. The copper tsuba with gold dragon-cloud openwork is the visual centerpiece — warm gold against the black handle, three-dimensional relief catching light from every angle. The brass habaki continues the gold register from guard through blade collar. The blade uses premium materials at every position: genuine rayskin, genuine horn, copper-gold tsuba, T10 steel, authentic choji hamon.
Imperial — Court Authority
The Imperial katana references the highest rank of Japanese warrior culture — blades carried by those who served emperors, protected shoguns, or held daimyo status. Gold fittings, dragon imagery, and choji hamon are the markers that historically identified court-level weapons. The koi-to-dragon legend on the saya adds the aspirational dimension: this is a blade for those who reach the top, not those born there.
Display
Ships with an ornate black stand with painted dragon panel and gold feet. The Imperial pairs with the Gold Katana (gold blade, kintsugi saya — shared gold register) or the Ginkai (dragon horimono on blade, shell saya — different dragon approach). The golden saya carvings ensure this blade dominates any display, sheathed or drawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is choji hamon?
Choji (丁子) is a clove-bud pattern — rounded bulging shapes rising from the cutting edge. It is one of the most prestigious hamon styles, historically associated with master smiths of the Bizen tradition. It requires precise clay application and is more difficult to produce than straight or simple wave patterns.
Is the rayskin genuine?
Yes. Genuine rayskin (samegawa) beneath the black cotton ito. The nodular texture is natural, not synthetic.
Is this Imperial katana sharp?
Yes. The T10 tool steel blade is hand-sharpened and functional. Handle with care, store in the saya, and check local regulations before ordering.
What is the koi-dragon legend?
In Japanese mythology, koi fish that swim upstream and leap the Dragon Gate waterfall transform into dragons. The saya depicts both creatures together — the koi representing perseverance and the dragon representing achieved greatness.
Are the horn fittings genuine?
Yes. The koiguchi (saya mouth) and kojiri (saya tip) are made from genuine horn — the traditional premium material for high-grade Japanese sword fittings.
Legal Disclaimer
By purchasing from Katana Corp, you acknowledge and agree that:
- You are at least 18 years of age (or the age of majority in your jurisdiction).
- You are solely responsible for verifying and complying with all local laws and import regulations before placing an order.
- Some countries prohibit the importation of swords entirely. Katana Corp is not responsible for orders delayed, seized, or refused by customs authorities.
- All katanas and related products are sold strictly as decorative and display items. They are not intended or certified for combat use.
- Depending on the jurisdiction, swords may legally be considered bladed weapons, subject to specific restrictions or prohibitions.
- Katana Corp disclaims all liability for any injury, damage, or legal consequences resulting from misuse, abuse, or unlawful use of its products.
For full details, please refer to our Terms of Service.
Care & Maintenance
To maintain your katana's appearance and performance over time, we recommend:
- Regularly wiping the blade with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints and moisture.
- Applying a light coat of choji oil to prevent rust (for carbon steel blades).
- Storing the sword in a dry place, preferably inside its saya.
- Avoiding direct contact with hard surfaces to preserve sharpness and finish.
For more care tips, check our full maintenance guide in the FAQ section.
Behind the Blade
Every katana we offer carries the essence of centuries-old craftsmanship.
More than just a weapon, the katana symbolizes discipline, honor, and mastery.
Our artisans draw inspiration from traditional forging methods to ensure each blade reflects the spirit of the samurai — strength, precision, and soul.
Owning one is not just about aesthetics — it’s about carrying a piece of that legacy.
User Experience
This katana is designed to offer a perfect balance between blade and handle.
Its ergonomic tsuka (handle) allows a secure two-handed grip, while the weight distribution ensures smooth, fluid movement.
Whether for training, display or cutting practice, handling feels natural and precise.
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Excellent
Good sword, small issue on arrival
Saya mouth was slightly loose when I got it, fitting tape sorted it. Balance is great though. People at my dojo always ask about it.
Way better than I expected
Hamon is clean, handle wrap tight, saya closes solid. Came in a wooden box. No complaints at all for the price.
Got it as a gift, he was speechless
Bought for my boyfriend who does iaido. He said the fit and finish were legit. I knew nothing about swords, site made it easy to pick.
Nice blade but took 2 weeks to arrive
Damascus looks great. Shipping to Portland took forever and tracking was dead for a week. Quality is there, logistics need work.
Third order, still no complaints
Ordered three times over two years. Always well packed, matches the photos. Support replied same day. Will keep coming back.
7×
Reasons to choose us
Why Choose Katana Corp
The difference, line by line.
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The Art of Traditional Forging
Each katana we craft is born from centuries of samurai tradition.
Our master smiths shape every blade by hand, folding the steel to achieve unmatched strength, flexibility, and beauty.
This time-honored process is not just about creating a weapon? it’s about preserving a legacy of discipline, honor, and artistry.
Materials Chosen Without Compromise
We select only the highest-grade steels and authentic fittings to ensure every katana is both a masterpiece and a reliable companion.
From the flawless hamon line to the perfectly balanced tang, each detail is carefully inspected to meet the highest standards of performance and aesthetics.
More Than a Sword, A Lifelong Legacy
Owning a handmade katana is an experience that goes beyond the blade itself. It’s holding history, tradition, and craftsmanship in your hands.
Whether displayed as a work of art or wielded with precision, your katana will stand as a symbol of timeless skill and dedication for generations to come.
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Key Destinations
United States: 5–7 days
Canada: 5–7 days
Australia: 6–9 days
Denmark: 4–6 days
Netherlands: 3–5 days
Sweden: 4–6 days
Switzerland: 3–5 days
Finland: 5–7 days
Singapore: 6–8 days -
Central European Partners
France: 2–3 days
Germany: 3–5 days
Spain: 4–6 days
Italy: 4–6 days
Belgium: 3–5 days
Austria: 4–6 days
Ireland: 4–6 days
Poland: 4–6 days
Portugal: 4–6 days -
Extended EU Network
Czechia: 4–6 days
Hungary: 4–6 days
Slovakia: 4–6 days
Slovenia: 5–7 days
Romania: 5–7 days
Bulgaria: 5–7 days
Croatia: 5–7 days
Serbia: 5–7 days
Estonia: 5–7 days
Latvia: 5–7 days
Lithuania: 5–7 days
Luxembourg: 3–5 days
Greece: 5–8 days -
FAQ’s
Visit our FAQs page to find answers to common questions.