A samurai always keeps two swords with him - a Katana (long sword) and a Wakizashi (short sword). These sword shows the social status and personality of the samurai carrying it. There are various sword types throughout the history of Japan and it can be classified into three: by age, length of blade, and area of production.
Age
Old Sword - The style of this sword is quite different. It was made before the 1600s
New Sword - These swords were the primary ones used during the Tokugawa period.
Very New Sword - Used from the 1840s to the 1870s for fighting. Most of the swords are heavy.
Modern Sword - This type of sword created from 1870s onward were considered as artistic items rather than weapons.
Length of Blade
Katana - Swords longer than 2 feet are called Katana. It is held between the belt and the blade is faced upward.
Wakizashi - With lengths between 1 foot to 2 feet, the Wakizashi was for practical use of high-ranking families.
Tanto - Tanto or short blades are less than 1 foot in length and was used for hand-to hand fighting.
Area of Production J
apanese swords can be identified based on the province where it was made.
The Gokaden (Five Traditions) were the schools where the swords were created, namely:
Shoshu
Yamato
Bizen
Yamashiro
Mino
If you’re interested in buying your own Japanese sword, be sure to prepare some spare cash as they might be a little pricey based on their classifications but surely, the sword will be worth it.