Japanese Samurai Katana  Koyama Munetoshi NBTHK Hozon

Japanese Samurai Katana  Koyama Munetoshi NBTHK Hozon

The Swordsmith and His Lineage

Koyama Sōshun Munetoshi (小山宗春宗俊), born in Shirakawa, Mutsu Province, was a direct disciple of Koyama Munetsugu, one of the most celebrated masters of the late Edo era. Munetoshi, who signed his works as Hakuryū-shi (白龍子 – “Master of the White Dragon”), studied the art of swordmaking under Munetsugu and refined his techniques to perfection.

His blades embody the elegance and sharpness characteristic of the Koyama school — a tradition known for producing swords with exceptional cutting ability, clarity of steel, and refined beauty. It is said that Munetoshi’s works at times even surpassed those of his revered teacher.

The Spirit of the Late Samurai Era

Forged in 1861, this katana was created at the twilight of the samurai age — a period when the warrior class still carried swords as symbols of honor, discipline, and tradition. The long, powerful blade of 75.4 cm displays perfect balance and presence, with a graceful curvature that reflects both strength and serenity.

The refined itame hada and bright nioiguchi hamon capture the luminous spirit of the Koyama tradition — a line that stood at the frontier between classical samurai craftsmanship and the dawn of the modern era.

The mounting is very special and reflects the quality of this beautiful samurai sword the details are stunning.

 Koyama Munetsugu lineage
Era: Late Edo Period (Bunkyū 1 / 1861)
Province: Mutsu

Certification: NBTHK Hozon – Preserved Sword

Blade Length  75.4 cm
Curvature (Sori)  2.0 cm
Width at Hamachi  3.4 cm
Thickness at Hamachi  7.2 mm
Width at Kissaki 2.35 cm
Thickness at Kissaki  5.0 mm
Mekugi-ana  1

Certification

This sword is accompanied by an official NBTHK Hozon certificate, attesting to its authenticity and preservation as a historically and artistically important work of t Koyama Munetsugu

A magnificent katana forged by one of the most skilled disciples of Koyama Munetsugu —
a blade that carries the final brilliance of the samurai era.