Bunan Era

The Bunan era (1449–1452) marked a transitional period from mid- to late-Muromachi, characterized by significant changes in Japanese sword morphology. During this time, a new sword form called uchigatana (striking sword) appeared for the first time, beginning to replace the traditional tachi as the primary combat blade. Swords made during the Bunan, Kakitsu, and Kanshō periods were notably short, slender, and thick—compact enough to be wielded with one hand. Celebrated smiths such as Norimitsu gained prominence, establishing distinctive forging techniques. The era coincided with a relatively peaceful and prosperous period in the Muromachi shogunate, during which swords transitioned from being primarily martial weapons to becoming valued aesthetic objects and prestigious gifts in samurai society.