Anime and manga shows have produced lots of legendary samurai swords over the years, that became sensations worldwide. These famous blades, often have an elegance and lethal precision, which have captured audience’s imagination and inspired endless cosplay costumes. Below is a list of five samurai swords that every anime or manga fan must have.
Zangetsu of Ichigo Kurosaki – Bleach
One of the most iconic weapons in Tite Kubo’s “Bleach,” is the sword wielded by Ichigo Kurosaki himself, Zangetsu. This sword resembled a huge cleaver initially, reflecting Ichigo’s raw power and lack of technique. As Ichigo grew in power, Zangetsu transformed into a sleek, black blade, which symbolized his growing mastery over his spiritual powers.
Zangetsu isn’t just a weapon, it is an integral part of Ichigo’s soul. This sword reflects his perpetual struggle and growth when becoming a Soul Reaper in the soul society.
Kenshin Himura’s Sakabato (Rurouni Kenshin)
The Sakabato, or reverse-blade sword, belongs to Kenshin Himura from Nobuhiro Watsuki’s “Rurouni Kenshin.” The meaning behind the design of the Sakabato, is to serve as a constant reminder of Kenshin’s vow not to take another life, after his dark past as an assassin known and feared as Hitokiri Battosai.
Roronoa Zoro’s Wado Ichimonji from One Piece
On the pages of Eiichiro Oda’s “One Piece,” Wado Ichimonji is one of the three swords Roronoa Zoro carries on his person at any given time. Because, this white-handled katana originally belonged to his childhood friend Kuinamhe, holds it very dear. When she died, the sword was passed on to Zoro, who then promised to realise their common dream of becoming the world’s greatest swordsman.
Mugen’s Double-Edged Sword (Samurai Champloo)
Mugen from “Samurai Champloo” by Shinichiro Watanabe uses a sword as unconventional as he is. Unlike traditional samurai swords, Mugen’s sword is a double-edged blade with no hilt, which is a metaphorical expression of his wild and wayward self.
Guts’ Dragon slayer (Berserk)
The Dragon Slayer sword wielded by Guts in Kentaro Miura’s “Berserk,” is a large sword resembling an iron plate, more than it does a blade. This colossal weapon brings with it the weight of Gut’s immense physical strength and his relentless determination. Forged to kill both man and monster, the Dragon Slayer sword serves as a symbol for Guts’ revenge against the apostles.
The length and weight of the Dragon Slayer serve as proof of his incredible abilities. Sure, it is a sword, but then it symbolises his struggle against odds too overwhelming and his refusal to give up.
Final Thoughts
All five katanas are far from simple weapons, instead they are part of who their welders are and the individual journeys they embarked on. Be it Ichigo’s Zangetsu which changes form every time, Kenshin with his redemptive Sakabato, the treasured Wado Ichimonji of Zoro, Mugen with his double-edged sword of rebellion, or Guts with the huge Dragon slayer, these legendary weapons continue to inspire people all over the world, and is a must have for all anime and manga fans.
