The Chokutō (直刀), or “straight sword,” is one of Japan’s earliest known sword forms, predating the curved katana and tachi. With roots tracing back to the Kofun period, the chokutō is both a weapon and a cultural artefact, offering insight into the early development of Japanese metallurgy, warfare, and aesthetics.
Unlike the later curved swords that defined the samurai era, the chokutō retained a straight, single-edged profile. It was heavily influenced by Chinese and Korean blades of similar design, particularly the dao and jian, during a time when Japan was actively adopting continental techniques. These swords were primarily used for slashing, although they could thrust as well, and were often worn suspended from the waist.
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Type | Straight, single-edged |
| Blade Length | Typically 60–70 cm |
| Tang | In-line tang (nakago) fitted into hilt |
| Mounting Style | Generally with ring pommel or simple fittings |
| Period of Use | 4th to 9th century AD |
| Construction Method | Initially bronze or iron, later forged steel |
| Sheath (saya) | Wooden, sometimes lacquered or decorated |
History and Evolution
- Kofun Period (c. 300–538 AD)
Early chokutō were imported or imitated Chinese/Korean swords. These were primarily ceremonial, often buried in elite tombs. - Asuka and Nara Periods (538–794 AD)
Indigenous production increased. The influence of Tang China and the Korean kingdoms introduced more advanced forging techniques. - Heian Period (794–1185 AD)
The sword began to evolve into curved forms. Combat on horseback necessitated a transition from straight to curved blades, phasing out the chokutō in favour of the tachi.
Advantages and Disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Easier to forge with early metallurgy | Less effective for slashing while mounted |
| Ideal for thrusting and linear strikes | Lacked flexibility and resilience of curved blades |
| Simplified construction | Obsolete by the Heian period due to combat evolution |
| Strong ritual and symbolic significance | Not optimised for close quarters duelling |
Comparison with Similar Weapons
| Feature | Chokutō | Katana | Jian (China) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Shape | Straight, single-edged | Curved, single-edged | Straight, double-edged |
| Usage Period | 4th–9th century | 13th century onwards | Since 7th century BC |
| Combat Style | Foot combat | Mounted and foot combat | Precision thrusting |
| Origin Influence | Chinese/Korean | Indigenous Japanese | Indigenous Chinese |
The chokutō served as an intermediary phase between imported Chinese sword culture and the distinct Japanese curved sword tradition that emerged in later centuries.
Legacy
While obsolete as a battlefield weapon by the 10th century, the chokutō holds cultural and archaeological significance:
- Seen in imperial regalia, such as the legendary Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi.
- Appears in temple iconography and early Japanese statuary.
- Influenced the design of later ceremonial and religious blades.
- Studied in historical martial arts and museum contexts.
Where to See
You can view preserved or ceremonial chokutō specimens in several major collections:
- Tokyo National Museum (Japan) – Home to rare chokutō, including some with imperial associations.
- Nara National Museum – Features swords recovered from kofun tombs.
- Kyoto National Museum – Displays early Japanese arms in the context of religious and aristocratic history.
- British Museum (UK) – Holds a few early Japanese blades in its East Asian collections.
Collector’s Guide
Rarity: Authentic chokutō are exceptionally rare, particularly in unrestored condition. Most are held in museum collections or designated national treasures in Japan.
What to Look For:
- Provenance and dating are critical. Tomb-excavated examples are often state property.
- Blade shape, forge grain (hada), and signature (mei) if present, are key indicators.
- Preservation state: many have corrosion or missing fittings due to age.
Recent Auction Trends:
| Auction House | Year | Blade Type | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonhams | 2019 | 8th-century chokutō fragment | £15,000 |
| Christie’s | 2021 | Ceremonial-style replica | £4,200 |
| Japanese Art Auction | 2023 | Complete chokutō (with scabbard) | ¥3.2 million (~£18,000) |
Collector Notes:
- Expect most listings to be reproduction, academic facsimiles, or decorative items unless verified by Japanese sources.
- Export of genuine chokutō from Japan is heavily restricted under cultural property laws.
- Restoration of corroded examples is best handled by licensed Japanese sword polishers (togishi).
The chokutō may not be as iconic as the katana, but its historical weight and refined form make it a subject of enduring fascination among collectors, scholars, and martial historians alike.
