\u3010Description\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0This blade was signed by Osafune Sukesada (\u5099\u5dde\u9577\u8239\u7950\u5b9a) in the third year of the Tensho era (1575: the early Azuchi Momoyama period), according to NTHK appraisal. Bishu, also known as Bizen, is the name of the province located in Today\u2019s Okayama prefecture. Osafune is one of the most prosperous schools in this province during the Muromachi period. Sukesada is his maker\u2019s name.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Those who forged swords in the Bizen province (Okayama prefecture) at the end of the Muromachi period (1492-1569 A.D) are called Matsu Bizen (Matsu means the end). Sukesada school was one of the most famous schools, and it flourished for generations among Osafune schools (The head branch). There were various styles forged by the generations of Sukesada during this period. Approximately 60 swordsmiths used Sukesada as his maker\u2019s name in the Samurai history. In that sense, the swordsmith\u2019s name \u201cSukesada\u201d worked as a kind of brand that attracted many Samurai.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The swordsmiths in Bizen produced many swords during the Muromachi period, as it was in the middle of the Sengoku period (Warring States period). The demand for weapons increased among strong feudal lords. It would be nice to have a piece forged in the Warring States period when there was so much rivalry between warlords. It was possible that this blade was ordered by a Samurai and he might have carried it on a battlefield.<\/span><\/p>\n This History of Bizen Osafune School<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0It is said that Osafune school was founded by Mitsutada (\u5149\u5fe0), who was active during the mid-Kamakura period. Bizen Osafune school was the biggest one of all other schools in Bizen province, and they received many orders from feudal lords or renowned Samurai. They were called Osafunemono and were beloved by Samurai warriors.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Among the swordsmiths who belonged to this school, Nagamitsu, Sanenaga, and Kagemitsu are known as Osafune Sansaku, the three renowned Osafune swordsmiths. There are also four other prominent swordsmiths who were from Bizen Osafune school. They are called Osafune Shiten-no, the four masters of Osafune school. Their names are Nagamitsu, Kanemitsu, Nagayoshi, and Motoshige.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0BIZEN is located near the Chugoku Mountains, where iron sands, one of the essential materials for making Japanese swords, were abundant. Furthermore, BIZEN swordsmiths had close access to the Yoshi River, where they could find water and charcoal. This geological location contributed to the swordsmiths forging high-quality refined blades. We presume BIZEN was quite active in sword-forging from ancient times. It is said that BIZEN DEN was created by groups of swordsmiths there during the late Heian era (Late 12th century). These ancient swordsmiths in Bizen province are called Ko-Bizen (Old Bizen) swordsmiths. By inheriting the sword forging techniques from Ko-Bizen swordsmiths, the Bizen Osafune school flourished from the mid-Kamakura period.<\/span><\/p>\n *Please kindly note that although this is a tant\u014d (short sword), it is stored in a wakizashi (medium sword) scabbard.<\/span><\/p>\n *Please keep in mind that there are a couple of Kitae Kizu\u00a0 as well as black rust on the blade. If you like to see the detailed condition, please feel free to contact us.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u3010Blade\u3011<\/span><\/strong> Hamon<\/strong>:<\/span> Kissaki<\/b>: <\/span>Kissaki is the tip\u00a0of the Japanese sword.<\/strong><\/p>\n Nakago<\/strong>: <\/span>Nakago is the tang of the Japanese sword. <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Japanese swordsmiths left the black rust on the tang because it prevents red rust while the tang is in its handle. And the discoloration of the tang was created over time, and it is a great indicator for a Japanese sword specialist to estimate when the sword was forged.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Koshirae<\/span><\/strong>\uff1aKoshirae is the mounting of the Japanese sword. There are several parts that consist of Koshirae such as Saya (Scabbard), Tsuka (Handle), Tsuba (Handguard).<\/strong><\/p>\n Fuchi-Kashira<\/span><\/strong>\uff1aA pair of matching sword fittings that cover the upper and bottom parts of its sword hilt.<\/strong><\/p>\n The theme of this Fuchi Kashira is the Gosan-no-Kiri (\u4e94\u4e09\u306e\u6850). Kiri (\u6850) means pawlounia in Japanese. Although the paulownia flower part is omitted and the judgment is based on the shape of the leaves, we estimate these leaves show a paulownia pattern. The Kiri pattern generally comprises three standing straight inflorescences and three leaves.\u00a0The number of blooming flowers at each inflorescence means the ranks of this design. The Gosan-no-Kiri (\u4e94\u4e09\u306e\u6850) pattern is a popular design that the paulownia motif is used. According to tradition, the Houou (\u9cf3\u51f0, Fenghuang) rests its wings at the paulownia tree; therefore, it has come to be regarded as a holy plant. Cherry blossom is one of the seasonal things of spring, and Japanese people have appreciated this plant for a long time. A theory says that the god of grain exists in cherry blossoms. Therefore, this flower pattern has been treated as the symbol of a plentiful harvest. The Karakusa pattern is a design in which vine stems and leaves are twined and make curves. Since ivy has a strong vitality and grows without interruption, people regarded this design as a symbol of prosperity and longevity.<\/p>\n Tsuka and Menuki<\/span><\/strong>\uff1aTsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration.<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0The motif of this menuki is also Gosan-no-Kiri” (\u4e94\u4e09\u306e\u6850), a traditional crest pattern featuring three upright clusters of paulownia flowers and three leaves. <\/span>This design has long been associated with authority and prestige in Japan. Historically, it was used by the imperial family and later adopted by high-ranking officials and prominent figures, most notably Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan\u2019s great unifiers. Today, the paulownia crest remains a national symbol and is officially used by the Government of Japan.<\/span><\/p>\n Tsuba and Habaki<\/span><\/strong>\uff1aTsuba is the handguard for the Japanese Sword and Habaki is the equipment to make the blade not touch its scabbard inside. It prevents the blade from getting rusty and chipped.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n This tsuba\u00a0features a consistent decorative motif in which chrysanthemum flowers (\u83ca, kiku<\/em>) are arranged in a circular pattern. This continuity of design across the components reflects a unified and deliberate aesthetic concept.<\/span><\/p>\n In Japanese culture, the chrysanthemum is a revered symbol of nobility, longevity, and refinement, and is strongly associated with the imperial family, as seen in the Chrysanthemum Seal. The circular arrangement of the flowers suggests harmony, completeness, and eternal beauty, further enhancing the dignified and elegant character of the sword as a whole.<\/span><\/p>\n Additionally, the surface of the fuchi-kashira is decorated with a nanako-ji (\u9b5a\u5b50\u5730) background\u2014a fine pattern of tiny raised dots that resembles fish eggs. This traditional metalworking technique not only adds visual texture and elegance, but also reflects the high level of craftsmanship characteristic of Japanese sword fittings.<\/span><\/p>\n Kozuka<\/span><\/strong>\uff1aKozuka is a small knife stored in Koduka Hitsu(groove of the sheath of the Japanese sword).<\/b><\/p>\n Saya<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a\u00a0Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0This saya features a design that appears to depict deer antlers. In Japanese culture, the deer is considered a sacred animal, often associated with Shinto beliefs.<\/span><\/p>\n Particularly in places like Nara, deer are regarded as messengers of the gods, and their presence in art or ornamentation reflects purity, spiritual connection, and protection. The inclusion of deer antlers on the saya may therefore symbolize not only aesthetic appreciation for nature, but also a deeper spiritual reverence and protective significance.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Authentication Paper<\/strong>: <\/span>NTHK Kanteisho Certificate for the blade (No. 13098)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0NTHK<\/span><\/a>, also known as NPO Nihon Touken Hozon Kai, is the oldest organization for sword authentication of Japanese swords in modern times. It was established in 1889 during the post-Samurai era. They authenticated the blade on March 16th in the 6th year of Reiwa (2025).\u00a0 The purchaser will receive this original certificate as well. We can also translate what is written into English and make a PDF file<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span> for your record if you request.\u00a0 We are expecting to receive its authentication paper by the end of April.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Registration Number<\/span><\/strong>: <\/span>Tokyo 255565<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The Board of Education in Tokyo prefecture issued a registration paper for this sword. It is called Jyu Hou Touken Rui Torokusho (\u9283\u7832\u5200\u5263\u985e\u767b\u9332\u8a3c). Bunkacho (The Agency for Cultural Affairs) acknowledges a Japanese sword with this paper as a work of art. \u3010About us\u3011<\/span><\/strong> \u3010Japanese Sword& Export Process<\/strong>\u3011<\/span> \u00a0Each Japanese sword is registered under the Agency for Cultural Affairs and the Board of Education in Japan. They issue a registration paper for each Japanese sword for its owner in Japan to legally possess it. The Japanese sword with its registration paper means it was traditionally hand-forged in Japan. \u00a0To legally export the sword from Japan to other countries, we will have to apply for its permit to the Agency for Cultural Affairs(Bunkacho) and return the original registration paper to the Board of Education. It normally takes around 2-4 weeks<\/strong> to receive this permit after submitting required documents. And we would like you to expect at least 1-1.5 months<\/strong> for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered. For more detailed info, please click here<\/span><\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0It is allo<\/span>wed for residents in Japan to own authentic Japanese swords without a special license as long as they come with registration papers. Please feel free to contact us if you are a resident of Japan, whether temporarily or permanently. We will also assist you when you leave Japan and need to obtain the export permit.<\/p>\n \u3010Payment Method\u3011<\/strong> * If the amount is above 1 million JPY, Stripe or wire transfer will be the only options for payment.<\/p>\n \u3010Shipping\u3011<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0We normally ship by EMS<\/strong>(Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. <\/span>We will send you a tracking number for your order as soon as we hand it to the post office. We will put 100 % insurance on the shipping document without any extra charge. Based on the total amount, there might be a duty tax or other fee for you to pay, depending on the countries. We use package cushioning to protect the item and put it in a PVC pipe, which is one of the most secure packages because of its durability.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0It will normally takes 5-14 days for the item to arrive at your given address after we dispatch it. Time of delivery is estimated as accurately as possible by the carrier but does not take into account any delays beyond our control such as by inclement weather, post office holiday seasons.<\/span><\/p>\n * If you live in Australia and like to purchase an authentic Japanese sword, please click here<\/span><\/span> <\/a>to know the detail.<\/strong><\/p>\n * If you live in the UK and like to purchase an authentic Japanese sword, please contact us first and click here<\/span><\/span> <\/a>to know the detail.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u3010Review\u3011<\/strong> \u3010How to make sure the condition\u3011<\/strong><\/span> \u3010How To Contact Us\u3011<\/strong> \u3010The Art of Nihonto (Japanese Sword)<\/strong>\u3011 \u3010A Guide to Japanese Sword Maintenance<\/strong>\u3011<\/span>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/bizen_gokaden_0927.jpg\")
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\nCutting Edge Length (Nagasa)<\/span><\/strong>:<\/span> 29.9cm (11.8 inches)<\/strong><\/span>
\n<\/strong><\/span>Curvature (Sori)<\/span><\/strong>:<\/span> 0.25 cm (0.10 inches)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/393e78a52df19dc9960a26d5dae44698-52-scaled.jpg\")
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\nthe crystalline structure which forms along the cutting edge of a blade as a result of the hardening process<\/strong><\/span>
\nJimon(Jihada)<\/span><\/strong>:<\/span>
\nvisible steel surface pattern created by folding and hammering during forging process<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/e4115684b98b182ed14efaae360d87dc-35.jpg\")
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\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4bf5bc17fc09b92259806088fd8fa453-34-scaled.jpg\")
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\nThe sword needs to be traditionally hand-forged and made of Tamahagane carbon steel to be registered in the system. With this paper, its owner in Japan can legally own an authentic Japanese sword. Based on this registration number, we will apply for its export permit.
\nThis paper will need to be returned to the board of education when the sword is being shipped abroad, but you can receive a copy of it. An English translation of this registration paper is available on request.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/4e7d45c31a5ad1489d4d278276eb356a-38-scaled.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords\/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on. <\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/5623eabfdde4147c0ecdc704028c6ecd.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0The Japanese swords we deal with are hand-forged edged swords made in Japan. It was made from the traditional carbon steel called TAMAHAGANE(\u7389\u92fc)<\/span><\/a>. Samurai Museum is familiar with the proper legal procedure for an antique\/ authentic Japanese sword to be exported from Japan. We have sent more than 700 Japanese swords for the past few years (\uff5e2024) to amazing owners who appreciate its historical value.<\/span><\/p>\n
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\nWe accept payment through Stripe <\/strong>(Credit card), PayPal<\/strong>, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. After confirming your payment, we will apply for an export permit. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD,EUR CHF <\/strong>or GBP<\/strong>. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/SSL_payment_1222-01-1.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0We have shipped authentic Japanese swords to the USA, Canada, Mexico, Germany , Belgium, France, Finland, Hong Kong, Australia<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span>. If you don’t live in these countries and like to order, please contact us first before making a purchase. We offer Free International Shipping<\/strong><\/span> as long as we can send antique Japanese swords by EMS.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/48026a8af882b8fafae180fa48fbd5f4.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0Here is o<\/span>ne of the reviews we received from a customer who purchased an authentic Japanese sword from us. For more reviews, please click here.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/a>
\n\u201cMy experience overall with the whole process was wonderful. I had many questions about the history and process to purchase these treasures. All my questions were answered very timely and complete. The staff is very knowledgeable and very well versed if any questions do arise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.<\/span> It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of a sword. and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0Please contact us through email, Facebook Messenger or Live Chat if you have any questions. You can find each icon on the right side of the w<\/span>ebsite. Please click one of them to reach us. We will reply to you within 1-2 business days.<\/p>\n
\n\u00a0Samurai’s history is a profound, eloquent legacy of ancient Japanese warriors in which millions of people worldwide are being fascinated. If y<\/span>ou like to find out the art of Nihonto, please click here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0After acquiring an genuine Japanese sword, it is also important to know how to take good care of it. Here is the special video for you. Mr. Paul Martin, Japanese sword expert, shows you how to give proper maintenance to your sword. By mastering how to clean the Japanese sword, its aesthetic beauty will last forever.<\/span><\/p>\n