How to Use a Katana Like a Samurai

Many people think that swinging or cutting with a real katana is easy, especially after watching a few videos on the internet. In fact, everything looks easy when watching somebody else performing. In reality, it’s not that simple. Bad technique often causes beginners to struggle during training. The mistakes I commonly encounter span the full range, starting with fundamental errors in grip and extending to issues with drawing, sheathing, swinging, and cutting.

I mean, yes, it’s easy just to hold a katana, but everything feels hard to execute without the right technique. In this article I will guide you through the fundamental techniques. And with a few simple tips, you will learn how to use a katana properly so your blade not only will perform at its best, but you’ll also execute everything with more ease.

Step 1: Holding the Katana Properly

The first step is learning how to hold a katana properly (with two hands). This is also the most important part because without the right grip, you risk losing control of the blade.

Always hold the katana handle from above, not from the side. Grip it firmly but not too tightly, with a slight twisting motion. 

Your dominant hand should be near the guard (tsuba), while your other hand rests closer to the bottom of the handle (tsuka). Your left hand provides the strength for the swing, while your right hand acts as the brake to control it (if your right is dominant). 

Keep your wrists loose enough to allow fluid motion, but steady enough to maintain control. The angle and alignment of the blade depend heavily on how you position your hands, so take your time to adjust and find balance. After you get comfortable, now you can learn swinging motions.

Step 2: Learn to Swing the Katana

The first step when performing swinging motions or cuts is to position one leg forward for balance. Raise the sword above your head with your arms open so you don’t block your view. The goal is to draw a large, smooth circle with the tip, ensuring the blade’s angle stays correct for effective cuts. Focus on letting your left hand drive the swing, while your right hand stops the blade at around waist height.

Vertical Swing

To perform a vertical swing (same for the cut) you will do the same motion in a straight-vertical line with the centerline of your target. The blade should slice downward with a single, fluid motion, driven by your entire body.

You should engage also your hips and core, not just your arms. Stop the blade just above waist height to complete the motion. Be careful with over-swinging. You can risks hitting the ground or disrupts your balance and readiness for the next movement.

Angled Swing

Start by raising the sword, but this time adjust your hand position to tilt the blade slightly, bringing your left hand over your ear to prepare for a diagonal swing. These angled motions are key for effective cuts, such as slicing through tatami mats.

A helpful way to visualize this is to aim for a line similar to cutting from 1 o’clock to 7 o’clock or 11 o’clock to 5 o’clock. Practice this motion a couple times and try cutting with a bit more force added. Just like vertical swings, angled swings should stop at or slightly below waist height.

When performing angled swings, avoid twisting your body or over-rotating your shoulders. This can throw off your balance and lead to uncontrolled swings, increasing the risk of injury.

Horizontal Swing

This is a bit different because doesn’t involve raising the sword above your head. This is executed at torso or neck level and rely on a smooth rotation of your hips and shoulders to drive the motion.

The key is to keep the blade perfectly horizontal throughout the swing to ensure a clean cut. Aim to stop the blade just past the target. This cut is effective for broad, sweeping motions and is especially useful for engaging multiple targets in close range.

Improper technique, such as swinging with the wrong angle or too much force, can damage the blade or even cause it to bend. By practicing these steps, you’ll avoid common mistakes and develop the confidence needed for effective handling. So, take your time and be patient. 

Step 3: Learn How to Equip the Katana Properly

In traditional iaido training, properly equipping the katana is a fundamental initial step. While dedicated attire like a hakama and obi (sash) might not always be available at home, securely attaching the saya (scabbard) is still possible. A belt or similar garment can be used; ensure it’s snug against your waist.

If using an obi, wrap it firmly, overlapping the ends and tying a secure knot. With the obi in place, carefully slide the katana through it, positioning the saya so its end aligns with the center of your body, in front of your navel. The tsuba (handguard) should remain centered as well, with your thumb lightly resting against it to prevent accidental slippage of the blade.

Step 4: Learn How to Draw The Katana Properly

To draw a katana effectively, begin with a balanced stance, positioning your right foot slightly ahead. Secure the scabbard (saya) with your left hand, preparing to draw the blade with your right. If the sword feels constricted, gently adjust the scabbard forward with your left hand to allow for a smoother draw.

With your right hand, grip the handle from below, as illustrated, and in one fluid motion, draw the blade while simultaneously pulling the scabbard back with your left.

Step 5: Learn Sheathing

To safely sheath your katana, use your left hand to guide the scabbard. Cup your left hand around the opening of the scabbard, creating a stable track. Then, carefully align the katana by resting its spine (the blunt edge) against your left hand and gently slide the blade into the scabbard.

Coordinate your movements: push the scabbard forward with your left hand while maintaining control of the katana with your right. Practice slowly to ensure accuracy and prevent injury.

Step 6: Nukitsuke

Nukitsuke is a drawing and cutting technique in Japanese swordsmanship, particularly in Iaido or Iaijutsu. So, the sword is in your belly. From this position, you will do the same hold and draw technique, but this time the focus is on attacking directly with a horizontal or diagonal cut using one hand.

Step 7: How to Do a Katana Defensive Move

Using Japanese swords for blocking can be challenging. Yes, it can be used and there are techniques for it. However, in my opinion, in comparison with European swords, they don’t make a great job. Whether the blade can be used to block or deflect, with a samurai katana is more risky and requires a highly skilled swordsman to execute effectively.

Blocking is not just about stopping an attack. It’s about redirecting and minimizing the force of the strike while maintaining control. To block with a battle ready katana, first identify the direction of the attack—whether it’s coming from above, the side, or diagonally. If the strike is coming from above, raise your blade at an angle to deflect the attack off to the side, using the back of the blade or its flat surface to avoid damaging the edge.

For a horizontal or diagonal attack, position your katana at the incoming angle, ensuring it meets the strike with enough stability to redirect the force. Always keep your arms slightly bent to absorb impact, and step to the side or backward to minimize the force and prepare for a counterattack.

Step 8: Becoming a Samurai

If you want to go deeper i highly suggest “Mastering the Samurai Sword” by Cary Nemeroff. In my opinion this is one of the best samurai books you can read, that offers a perfect introduction to real samurai swords. Not only covers the history, evolution and philosophy of the classic samurai weapon, but also provides practical guidance for mastering the samurai sword yourself. It includes an instructional DVD that covers the material in the book where you can actually see in detail how the technique should be done.

Last Words

Whether you’re training in a traditional dojo or practicing at home just for fun, mastering the basics is essential for safe and effective use. Be careful when practicing, and if possible, train with a dull katana.

If you are practicing at home with a sharp Japanese sword and you are a beginner, I suggest going to an open space or backyard without people around and using slower movements until you get comfortable. After some time, everything will look much easier. Don’t forget to clean your katana after you finish and display it properly.

Read next: 3 Best katanas for self-defense