Dōjigiri, National Treasure sword at Tokyo National Museum, Japan
Dōjigiri is a tachi sword at the Tokyo National Museum, a traditional craft of Japan and National Treasure, recognized as one of the five legendary blades of the country. The blade shows a gentle curve and characteristic patterns in the steel, formed through folding and hardening of the metal.
The swordsmith Yasutsuna crafted the blade between the 10th and 12th centuries during the Heian period, an era when sword making in Japan evolved into a refined art form. Later, the weapon came into the possession of military leaders and was preserved as an example of outstanding craftsmanship.
The name comes from an old story in which a warrior used this weapon to defeat a demon. This tale links the blade to a literary and mythical heritage passed down through generations.
The weapon is housed in Room 13 of the Japanese Gallery at the museum, where visitors can view it alongside other metallurgical objects. The building is located in Ueno Park, a large area with several cultural facilities.
The blade belongs to the Tenka-Goken collection, a group of five swords considered the pinnacle of Japanese forging art. Each weapon in this group carries its own name and is associated with a particular smith or workshop.
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