Tenka Fubu Katana

Dragon King pays tribute to one of Japan’s most ambitious and powerful warlords with the Oda Nobunaga katana. Bearing the motto “Tenka Fubu” – the nation under one sword – this weapon embodies Nobunaga’s audacity, ruthlessness, and vision of a unified Japan during the turbulent Sengoku period. More than a sword, this katana is a striking reminder of the man who forever changed the course of Japanese history.

A Sword Steeped in Sengoku History

The fittings tell the story of rivalries and victories that shaped an era. The tsuba (guard) depicts Oda Nobunaga’s kabuto, while the fuchi-kashira honor his bitter rival, Takeda Shingen. The fuchi bears a war fan and battle flag commemorating Nobunaga’s legendary 1560 victory at Dengakuhazama, when he tricked Imagawa’s forces and launched a daring surprise attack. His passion for warfare was matched by a love of poetry and tea ceremony, remembered here through silver menuki shaped as delicate ornaments. Every detail reflects Nobunaga’s dual legacy as both ruthless commander and cultured leader.

Details of the Tenka Fubu Katana

The centerpiece of this weapon is its 28 ½” forged steel blade, housed in a red lacquered saya symbolizing the blood spilled in pursuit of Nobunaga’s ambition. The saya is completed with a buffalo horn kurikata and kojiri, tied with a brown sageo that complements the brown tsuka-ito wrapped over white same (ray skin). Together, the copper-toned furniture, menuki, and symbolic motifs create a seamless harmony of art and function. The Tenka Fubu Katana is not only a collectible masterpiece but also a fully functional blade—one that Oda Nobunaga himself would have been proud to carry into battle.