Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is a Japanese sword called?
1 Answer

What a Japanese sword is called depends on its length. A short sword is a wakizashi, which means "side arm." The longer, more well-known sword is the katana. Samurai carried both types of swords. The pair is known as a daisho, which translates to "big and small." Shop a variety of Japanese swords on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Related Questions
- What is a Toledo sword?1 Answer
- What is the difference between a saber and a sword?1 Answer
- Can I buy ancient swords?1 Answer
- What is a Thai sword called?1 Answer
- Are sword canes practical?1 Answer
Shop for Japanese Sword on 1stDibs
Japanese sword, Tachi. 19th c
Located in Stockholm, SE
A Japanese sword, army-mounted from the 19th c. The blade with signature.Fuchi Kashira of gilt
Category
Antique 19th Century Japanese Metalwork
Materials
Iron
Intricate Japanese Sword Fittings and Ornaments, Japanese Art by Audsley, 1884
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Intricate Japanese Sword Fittings and Ornaments – Plate VI from Section VII
Description
Category
Antique 1880s Prints
Materials
Paper
Intricate Japanese Sword Guards – Heliograph from Audsley’s Japanese Art, 1884
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Intricate Japanese Sword Guards (Tsuba) – Plate XI from Section VI of G. A. Audsley’s
Category
Antique 1880s Prints
Materials
Paper
Pl. 10 Antique Print of Japanese Sword & Knife and Handles, Racinet, circa 1890
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Japanese - Japonais - Japonesisch'. Chromolithograph of Japanese sword and
Category
Antique Late 19th Century Prints
Materials
Paper
$138 Sale Price
20% Off
Antique Edo Period Ko-Tosho Tsuba Japanese Sword Part Dated 1846
Located in New York, NY
A circular iron plate pierce-carved Tsuba with whistles in negative silhouette. Dated from first Edo period (1615-1868).
Weight: 121.7 Grams
Material: Bronze & Copper
Measurements: ...
Category
20th Century Pendant Necklaces
Materials
Bronze, Copper
Japanese Edo Period XVIIc Iron Sword Tsuba (Guard). Bamboo & Frogs.
Located in MELBOURNE, AU
This intriguing article is a Tsuba,
a Japanese sword guard that forms part of the sword's mounting
Category