This Iai practice sword is manufactured in Gifu Prefecture which has historically been known as the workplace of the Japanese swords. The blade is handmade with the traditional technique of sand casting. This is a replica sword. It is not real and cannot cut. Also, as it is made of alloy, it cannot be sharpened by yourself. Cautions for Use Material LimitationsThe blade material differs from real swords and cannot be sharpened. Regarding Uesugi Kenshin Himetsuru Ichimonji This sword is called Himetsuru Ichimonji Aikuchi Uchigatana Koshirae and was crafted by the Fukuoka Ichimonji school in Okayama Prefecture. Its name originates from a dream of a Fukuoka Ichimonji swordsmith. One night, the swordsmith dreamt of a princess who appeared before him. She pointed to a sword and said “Tsuru” (crane), asking for his help. Inspired by this vision, he named the blade Himetsuru Ichimonji (Hime = princess, Tsuru = crane, Ichimonji = the name of his school). The blade itself has a graceful, sweeping curve, reminiscent of a crane’s neck. During the Sengoku period (16th century), one renowned samurai favored this sword. His style of swordsmanship suited a blade without a handguard (tsuba), known as an aikuchi. Originally forged in the ancient tachi style, the sword was later remounted in the more practical uchigatana koshirae style for use on the battlefield. The distinctive curve and long hilt of the Himetsuru Ichimonji made it especially beloved by the legendary warlord Uesugi Kenshin. This sword should be used not only for Iai practice but also for decoration in your living.[NOTE]This is a modern replica created by a contemporary sword manufacturer, inspired by the legendary sword of Tokugawa Ieyasu.It is not the original historical blade. Regarding Stand We sell a wood stand separately.To see stands, please check here. 【What is a Japanese sword?】Please click here. Shipping Swords Due to size restrictions or import regulations, some countries may not accept long swords.Note: This is based on our current information. Other countries may also have restrictions. Countries with Size Restrictions Due to parcel size restrictions, we cannot ship long swords to the following countries. Australia Spain Countries with Import Restrictions Some countries prohibit importing swords of this type. Please confirm your country's regulations before purchasing. Buyers are responsible for ensuring compliance with local laws. United Kingdom: To ship an imitation sword, the blade length must be under 50 cm. As our long swords are approximately 1 meter, it is not possible to ship long swords to the UK. Most Asian Countries: Importing swords, including ornamental ones, is prohibited in many Asian countries. UAE, Belgium: Delivery not available. 【Specification】■Size・Full length : 106cm・Blade: 76cm・Hand guard: None・Weight: about 1450g ■Detail・Blade (Toshin): Zinc alloy using the sand casting, ・Hilt wrapping (Tsukamaki) : Lining of cowhide, Greenish brown・Hilt under braids (Samegawa) : Ray skin, Black・Sheath (Sayanuri) : Kuroro Nuri (Japanese traditional lacquered with shine)・Collar at the sword hilt (Fuchigashira) : Metal, Water-buffalo horn・Ornament of the hilt under braids (Menuki) : Alloy, Sukashi Ryu Zu (Dragon) ・The cord used to tie the sheath to the belt (Sageo) : Silk, light brown and green. ・Country of origin: Japan Product Type: HOME DÉCOR Collection: SAMURAI > IAI PRACTICE SWORD