Katana Guide: The Geometric Yokote

The geometric yokote is a distinctive feature found on the Shinogi Zukuri profile of katanas. But what exactly is it? Does it make a distinct difference in the performance of the katana or is it simply cosmetic? Here we take a deeper look at the yokote, how it is created by the polisher, what its significance is, and how it can affect the performance of the blade.

What is the Geometric Yokote?

The geometric yokote is a distinctive transition line that separates the ji (body of the blade) from the kissaki (the blade tip) in the traditional katana sword. This transition line is the starting point for a change in the geometry of the kissaki. This definitive change in geometry helps to reinforce the blade tip to make it more effective for thrusting. The more defined the geometric yokote is, the more effective it is to dissipate the impact forces placed on the kissaki during a thrust. Without a defined yokote, the kissaki is more likely to experience damage, such as chipping. 

While the basic ridge of the yokote is formed during forging, a skilled polisher creates the authentic and clearly defined geometric yokote which not only can you see, but you can feel. This takes time and an incredible amount of skill to be able to shape and create an authentic yokote consistently. Therefore, most mass-produced production katanas do not offer a true geometric yokote. Instead, these swords often have a cosmetic yokote created by polishing the kissaki in a different direction than the rest of the blade, creating the illusion of a yokote.

Creating and Polishing a Geometric Yokote

As we have mentioned, creating an authentic yokote takes the special skill of a professional polisher in order to achieve the ridge and geometric profile change of the yokote. Let’s take a closer look at what is involved in the polishing process of an authentic yokote. 

Once the swordsmith forges the blade, he turns it over to the polisher, or togishi. The sole purpose of the togishi is to polish and improve the aesthetics and function of the sword. During the first stage, known as shitaji togi, the polisher works to ensure the blade is straight, fullers (grooves) are polished out, and the blade has a smooth texture. 

Once complete, the next stage, known as shiage togi, focuses on the finishing polish to achieve the final appearance and texture. During this stage, the blade is stationary while stones are used for polishing. 

When it comes to the yokote, the togishi begins in the shitaji togi stage using coarse stones. Once the remaining part of the blade completes the shiage togi stage, the togishi moves to the finishing of the yokote. He begins by wrapping the blade in a cotton cloth, leaving only the kissaki exposed. A flat piece of bamboo mask (yokote-kiri) is positioned on the blade beginning where it starts to curve up toward the point and ending perpendicular to the ridgeline. Once the bamboo is in place, the sword is placed on a flat work surface with the edge extended out just past the edge. 

The Hazuya Stone

Once in place, the togishi wets the kissaki and places a small piece of hazuya (very thin Uchigumori stone fixed with paper) against the edge of the mask. With precision, the togishi holds the hazuka with bamboo tongs and moves the hazuya back and forth against the edge of the bamboo until he completes the desired polish of this portion. Once he removes the hazuya and the yokote-kiri, it reveals a clear and sharp yokote. The polished portion of the kissaki will appear white in color compared to the rest of the blade surface. 

The Narume-Dai

To complete the point, the togishi uses a polishing tool called the narume-dai. This is a rectangular piece of wood measuring around 10” long and 1” wide. It has latitudinal half-sections cut out, making its top surface springy and flexible. The togishi folds Japanese paper, making it eight to 10 layers thick, and then wets the paper before placing a large, thin piece of hazuya stone on top. He then places the paper and stone on top of the narume-dai. With precision, the togishi moves the blade, from yokote to tip, ove the stone with movements perpendicular to the length of the blade. This final polishing stage creates a matte finish with a white color, making it stand out from the rest of the blade and highlighting the yokote.

Does Your Sword Need a Yokote?

The creation of the yokote was to help dissipate force when the sword was used for thrusting. The yokote helps to protect the kissaki from chipping and breaking when the katana is used in the thrust against a target. Whilst katana are optimized for cutting, they have an impressive amount of penetrative power when used in this manner and thrusting with the katana was a common technique in battle when dispatching a well-armored Samurai foe.  If you have no plans for thrusting your katana, chances are the addition of a yokote is not necessary. However, if you are looking for a true authentic katana, then a true yokote is something you want to look for. Keep in mind, the polishing process is intense and most mass-produced production katana do not posses a true yokote. In most cases, you will pay the extra cost for this time-honored process.

At Kult of Athena, we offer a wide range of high-quality katana swords inspired by traditional swordsmith techniques, including a wide selection of swords with a traditional yokote. If you are looking to add an authentic katana to your collection, we have what you need. Browse our selection of high-quality and beautiful katanas today.