The Kashira - Parts of a Japanese Katana
The Kashira is the cap at the end of the katana handle or tsuka. The literal translation of kashira to English is "head" because of it being positioned at the head of the samurai sword. Unlike the pommel on a European sword it is not designed as a counter-balance. It closes off and finishes the end of the tsuka while providing a point for the handle wrap or tsuka-ito to tie off. The kashira can be a very simple piece to simply cap the end but on an elaborate Japanese katana the kashira can be adorned with great detail complimenting the theme of the overall sword.
Kashira Photos
These are some photo's of several different Kashira found on the Japanese katana that we offer.
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
The Domoe symbol adorns the kashira of the Crane Katana.
See more of the Tomoe and Crane 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
Flowing water kashira on the Water Dragon Starter Katana.
See more of the Water Dragon 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
Ryujin theme throughout this limited edition katana.
See more of the Ryujin Katana
the katana fuchi
See more of the Ryujin Katana
The tsuka is carved to each individual sword ensuring a tight friction fit with a full same-gawa wrap.
See more of the Wolf Wakizashi
Simple kashira or end cap on the Ko-Katana.
See more of the Musashi Ko-Katana
The fuchi and kashira are lightly textured and gentle to the touch
See more of the Wolf Katana