Etiquette Surrounding Japanese Swords — Manners You Should Know About Katana

The Importance of Etiquette in Handling Japanese Swords

When handling a Japanese sword, there exists refined etiquette based on centuries of samurai tradition and the tea ceremony. These practices express respect for the sword as both a weapon and a work of art. In sword appreciation gatherings and interactions with individual collectors, possessing correct etiquette serves as the best signal of one's understanding and sincerity toward the sword. Conversely, handling a sword without knowing proper etiquette is not only disrespectful to the owner but also risks damaging the blade itself. Whether you are viewing a sword for the first time or are a seasoned collector, please take the opportunity to review the following etiquette.

Permission to View and the First Words

The most important first practice is to politely ask the sword's owner for permission to view it. The basic phrase is, "Pardon me, but would it be alright to view your sword?" To the owner, a sword is not merely an object but usually a treasure passed down from previous generations or something carefully maintained with affection over many years. When receiving permission to view the sword, do not touch it directly with bare hands; instead, use a piece of silk cloth called fukusa. This silk cloth prevents the blade from becoming soiled and is an important tool that simultaneously expresses respect to the owner and reverence for the sword.

Steps for Drawing the Blade: The Meaning of Cutting the Koiguchi

There are specific steps when drawing the blade from the sheath for viewing.

1. Perform the motion of "cutting the koiguchi." Hook your thumb on the koiguchi (the opening where the blade is inserted) of the sheath to slightly release the close fit between the blade and sheath.
2. With the edge facing upward, slowly draw the blade from the sheath. Never rush the withdrawal.
3. Support the sword with both hands and quietly release the blade while taking sufficient care not to drop it.

Hasty withdrawal risks the edge scraping against the inner wall of the sheath, causing blade chipping or sheath damage.

Observing the Hamon and Jihada: Holding Your Breath

Once you hold the blade, first take a deep breath to calm your mind. It is strictly forbidden to breathe on the blade. Moisture and heat in your breath, when they adhere to the blade surface, can trigger rust progression unseen. When viewing the hamon, observe the blade by gradually changing its angle relative to the direction of natural light or LED illumination. The appearance of the hamon's nie and nioi changes dramatically depending on how the light hits. Observing the jihada requires a different angle altogether, and spending appropriate time with it is also a matter of etiquette. The professional appreciation process of Japanese sword appraisers is detailed in "The Work of Japanese Sword Appraisers".

Avoiding Direct Bare-Hand Contact

Touching the blade with bare hands is not merely a matter of etiquette but a serious concern for blade preservation. The oils and salt in the palm, when they adhere to the blade surface, cause rust within days. Should you need to touch the blade during viewing (such as to support it for closer observation of the hamon), use a clean, dry white cotton hand cloth. The use of white gloves is also considered evidence of careful appreciation, and each of these cautious measures embodies true understanding and respect for the sword.

Returning the Blade and Expressing Gratitude

Once viewing is complete, quietly return the blade to its sheath. Returning the blade, like drawing it, should not be rushed. With the edge facing upward, carefully insert the blade from the koiguchi and confirm it is completely seated. Then, holding the sword with both hands, return a light bow toward the owner. Expressing gratitude with words such as "I was deeply honored to view such a fine sword" is proper etiquette and the final gesture of respect to the owner.

The World of the Sword Opened by Etiquette

This series of practices is not mere formality. It is mental preparation for facing the sword as an entity and an expression of courtesy that nurtures trust between the owner and viewer. By naturally acquiring proper etiquette, you will gain the trust of fellow enthusiasts at sword appreciation gatherings and exhibitions, opening opportunities for deeper exchange and learning. The quiet time spent with a sword is also a precious experience that allows you to step away from modern daily life and touch the depths of Japanese traditional culture. Through learning etiquette, your relationship with the sword becomes richer, and the joy of appreciation grows many times over. When introducing Japanese sword culture to overseas guests, explanations of such etiquette often evoke great emotion and play an important role in the international dissemination of Japanese sword culture. As a courteous sword enthusiast, please practice etiquette regularly in your daily life. At first, you will be conscious of each step, but with repetition, it will naturally become an ingrained practice. Please also refer to "The Complete Guide to Japanese Sword Law" regarding the possession and sale of Japanese swords. Etiquette is not mere formality but a living, breathing culture that creates the space where swords and people meet.