The aim of this site is to provide a convenient, no-nonsense Internet resource for collectors and dealers of the following metallic Japanese sword fittings:
fuchi (pommel on the hilt) kashira (pommel at base of hilt) habaki (collar) kogai (skewer or hair arranger/ear cleaner) wari-kogai or waribashi (split kogai) kozuka or kodzuka (utility knife handle with gokatana or kokatana blade) menuki (hilt ornaments) seppa (spacer) tsuba (sword guard) umabari (implement with triangular cross-section)
For detailed information about Japanese swords and fittings, go to Richard Stein's excellent Japanese Sword Index (mirrored here).
We are putting together a searchable database of museums around the world which have displays (however small) of Japanese swords, fittings and related items. The database is still at the prototype phase.
Hopefully, visitors to the site will find this interesting/useful and will contribute information about museums they have visited or found on the Internet.
A "safe and friendly" website for those interested in buying and selling nihonto-related items - Books, Fuchi Kashira, Gunto, Kodogu, Menuki, Naginata, Swords, Tsuba, Yanone, Yari - in an auction environment.
Click on the Nihonto Auctions banner above and check the site out now.
Try one of our crossword puzzles based on common Japanese sword terms - it's a great way for beginners to learn and for experts to demonstrate their skills.
