The Fuchi - Parts of a Japanese Katana

The fuchi is the metal bordering piece between the swords tsuba (guard) and tsuka (handle). The fuchi finishes the starting point of the handle wrap while capping the end of the wooden tsuka. The fuchi can be a very simple metal band but in higher end sensai grade katana the fuchi can be a work of art made by master artisans. The theme on the fuchi will normally compliment the kashira (cap) that is on the other end of the guard. Often matched sets these two pieces together are called fuchi-kashira.
Examples of the Fuchi
These photo's are an example of Fuchi found on Japanese katana forged today.
Continuing the tradition XL Series of katana blade geometry, our new cutter features the billowing clouds and raimie (thunderclap) theme from fuchie to kashira. With a double pegged and fully removeable tsuka (handle) with synthetic components around the wood core.
See more of the Raimie XL Katana
The dragonfly kashira, along with the fuchi (hilt collar), reinforces the tsuka and provides a point for the handle wrapping (tsukaito) to tie off.
See more of the Hanwei Dragonfly Katana
Tomoe symbols, representing strength and spiritual motion adorn the fuchi and kashira.
See more of the Tomoe and Crane Katana
Tomoe symbols, representing strength and spiritual motion adorn the fuchi and kashira, while elegant crane motifs, symbolizing longevity and grace, decorate the tsuba and included kogatana (small utility knife).
See more of the Tomoe and Crane Katana
The silver Ryujin themed tsuba, fuchi and kashira are contrasted by the lacquered black saya, sageo and tsuka-ito over white same.
See more of the Ryujin Katana
the katana fuchi
See more of the Ryujin Katana
the back of the fuchi
See more of the Ryujin Katana
The detailed fuchi
See more of the Ryujin Katana
The fuchi and kashira are lightly textured and gentle to the touch
See more of the Wolf Katana
The fuchi and kashira are lightly textured and gentle to the touch
See more of the Wolf Katana
The fuchi and kashira are lightly textured and gentle to the touch
See more of the Wolf Katana
The tan tsuka-ito (handle wrap) offests the blackened fuchi and fuchi-kashira on the double mekugi (bamboo pin) pinned handle.
See more of the Ginkgo Leaf Katana