膝丸

Hizamaru is a sword of many names, each marking a turning point in its storied existence. It was first called 'Hizamaru' (Knee Cutter) after it severed a criminal's knee in a cutting test. When Minamoto no Raikō used it to slay the tsuchigumo (earth spider) yōkai, it became 'Kumokiri' (Spider Cutter). Later, it was renamed 'Hoemaru' (Howling Blade) when it was heard resonating on its own in the dead of night. Finally, when it passed to Minamoto no Yoshitsune, it received the elegant name 'Usumidori' (Pale Green) and is said to have accompanied him through the great Genpei War battles at Ichi-no-Tani, Yashima, and Dan-no-ura. A single blade with four names is an extraordinary rarity in Japanese sword history, each name concealing an epic tale.