The Five Greatest Swords of Japan — Supreme Masterpieces of the Nation

The "Tenka Goken" (Five Greatest Swords Under Heaven) is a designation for the five most exceptional Japanese swords ever made.

Mikazuki Munechika: By Sanjo Munechika. Named for the crescent-shaped uchizuke along its edge. A National Treasure housed at the Tokyo National Museum.

Dojigiri Yasutsuna: By Hoki Yasutsuna. The legendary sword said to have been used by Minamoto no Yorimitsu to slay the demon Shuten-doji. Also a National Treasure at the Tokyo National Museum.

Onimaru Kunitsuna: By Awataguchi Kunitsuna. Named after the tale of the sword cutting a demon in a nightmare of Hojo Tokiyori. An Imperial treasure.

Odenta Mitsuyo: By Miike Tenta Mitsuyo. Passed down in the Maeda family as the guardian sword of Kaga's million-koku domain. A National Treasure held by the Maeda Ikutokukai Foundation.

Juzumaru Tsunetsugu: By Aoe Tsunetsugu. Said to have been carried by the monk Nichiren, named for the rosary wound around its handle. An Important Cultural Property at Honkoji Temple.

All Five Greatest Swords reside in museums and temples, never appearing on the market. Yet knowing them is essential for understanding the pinnacle of Japanese sword artistry.