Ōkurikara

大倶利伽羅

Also known as: Ōkurikara Hiromitsu

Smith

Hiromitsu

Era

Nanbokuchō period (14th century)

Type

Uchigatana

Designation

Important Art Object (private collection)

Location

Private collection

Description

Forged by Hiromitsu, a master of the Sōshū tradition, this blade bears a kurikara dragon carving (depicting a dragon, an avatar of Fudō Myōō, coiled around a sword) that gives it the name 'Ōkurikara.' Traditionally held to be the beloved blade of Date Masamune, it symbolizes the martial prestige of the Date clan. With the bold proportions and vivid hamon characteristic of the Sōshū school, it exemplifies the powerful aesthetic of the Nanbokuchō period. Date Masamune, the 'One-Eyed Dragon' and one of the Sengoku era's greatest heroes, had the kurikara dragon carved as an expression of his devotion to Fudō Myōō. In Touken Ranbu, Ōkurikara is portrayed as a taciturn uchigatana and enjoys considerable popularity.

Legends & Stories

The kurikara dragon is an avatar of Fudō Myōō, the Immovable Wisdom King, and its depiction coiling around a sword symbolizes the burning away of worldly delusion. Date Masamune's attachment to this blade reflects his deep personal devotion to Fudō Myōō. Having lost his right eye to smallpox as a child, Masamune overcame his handicap to become the supreme ruler of Ōshū. His epithet 'One-Eyed Dragon,' drawn from the Chinese hero Li Keyong, creates a compelling image: a one-eyed hero bearing a dragon sword blessed by Fudō Myōō — the very embodiment of Masamune's life story. In Touken Ranbu, Ōkurikara is depicted as a solitary uchigatana who shuns companionship, and his independent spirit — reminiscent of Masamune himself — has captured the hearts of fans.