Shadow Dancer Dragon Year Katana Koshirae – Standard Edition

In Japan, tatsu doshi, 辰年 (Year of the Dragon) is highly auspicious, holding special significance due to the blending of deep martial traditions and celestial mythology. Having adopted the Chinese 12-year zodiac system during the Asuka period (6th - 7th centuries), the dragon is the only mythical creature and therefore, considered the most powerful. Dragons are also associated with royalty as the legendary Emperor Jimmu is said to be descended from Toyotama-hime (Dragon Princess), daughter of Ryūjin (sea god). 

Shadow Dancer commemorates the Dragon Year with this beautiful katana. Its shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade is forged from crucible steel, a material prized for its ability to resemble tamahagane steel blades. Differentially heat treated and clay tempered, the jihada and elegant gunome (waves) hamon are accentuated through traditional sashikomi polishing. 

Ornate blackened brass fittings with gold accents adorn the katana, including a maru gata (round) sukashi (openwork) tsuba, fuchi, kashira, and menuki, all featuring dragon motifs. Masters of the rains and tides, the dragon represents peak cosmic energy, transformation, strength, wisdom, and protection. Brass seppa and habaki complement the sword’s design. 

True to tradition, one mekugi pins the nakago within the wooden Haichi style tsuka. White samegawa covering the handle provides traction for the tightly wrapped Japanese silk tsukamaki to prevent it from slipping. Hishigami (folded paper wedges) added beneath the wrap act as support and anchors, resulting in a more solid and longer lasting grip. 

Last but not least, this katana comes sheathed in a glossy black lacquered saya fitted with horn koiguchi and kurikata, brass kojiri and shitodome, as well as high-quality Japanese imported sageo.