What Tsuba Ring, Tsuka-maki Wrapping, and Sageo String Are Really For

The katana is a beautiful piece of art, and the most widely-known weapon in Japanese subculture.
If you’re here to watch this video, I’m pretty sure you’re a fan of katana too.
When you see a katana in anime and manga, have you ever wondered what these things are for?
Are they just decorations or do they have some kind of meaning?
So today, as a Japanese katana trainee, I will explain about the purposes of the three parts that you see on a katana: the tsuba, tsuka, and sageo.
However, please understand that I will be talking about the standard type of katanathat has been used from the Edo period to the modern day.
Depending on the historical period the katana is made, the material or method of creating these items are completely different.
In the “omake” talk at the very end of the video, I would like to demonstrate an iaidō kata, which is the katana routine still practiced today so I can show you how each part of the sword are actually used.
[Time codes]
0:00 Let's START!
1:53 鍔 Tsuba
6:45 柄 Tsuka
13:10 下緒 Sageo
19:53 Today’s conclusion
22:49 “Omake” talk
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• The 3 Surprising Diffe...
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• What are the Differenc...
-What are the differences between Iaido & Kendo? The history of the two katana martial arts of Japan
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Hello everyone, and thank you for watching my videos!
I’m Shogo, a Kyoto born & Hiroshima raised Japanese, that grew up in Michigan USA for 6 years, and studied Mandarin in Beijing university for a year!
I live in Kyoto now, as I train in Iaido(katana), Sado(tea ceremony), and Noh theatre(traditional stage art).
In this channel, you can take a closer look at Japanese traditional culture, tips on traveling to Kyoto, and social problems in Japan.
So learners and lovers of Japanese language and culture, be sure to subscribe to enjoy more content!
If you enjoyed this video, please hit the LIKE button, and share with your friends and family!
My goal is “to achieve 100,000 subscribers by January 2022”, so your help would mean a lot!
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#tsuba #tsukamaki #sageo #katanaswords #makingakatana

[@LetsaskShogo]

Everyone, thank you so much for celebrating our 100K subscribers! I will be posting two videos about our "new challenges" as soon as possible, so I hope you can look forward to it! ・ In this channel, you can take a closer look at Japanese traditional culture, tips upon traveling to Kyoto, and social problems in Japan. So learners and lovers of Japanese language and culture, be sure to subscribe to enjoy more content! Please check out the description box for more videos recommended for you! Thank you again very much for watching!

[@zhufortheimpaler4041]

another use of the Sageo could/would have been to tie up your sleeves when doing manual labor/fighting, that they dont interfere negatively. (Tasuki)

[@suprematiccube7072]

Maybe it is worth showing the audience, how to first turn the sword in order to position with mune up, before removing it from the sai? After all, if an inexperienced person, after watching your video, begins to draw the sword, as you show, when the thumb is over the ha, pushing the tsuba, he risks splitting his finger in two parts.

[@suprematiccube7072]

@@seikibrian8641 Yes, "saya", i made a mistake in the transcription. I didn't think about gravity, and I'm not sure if it presses so hard, besides, sword will be pulled up, but okay. Beginner can turn the sword to the side, with the blade away from body. The main thing is that the video does not mention the danger and someone has already run to cut theirs thumbs. Hopefully someone reads these comments first.

[@schrodingersgat4344]

Great video! Very informative. Your love of the subject shows through. I look forward to watching your other content.

[@ravoniesravenshir3926]

I think the Sageo might have been all of those things, and more... maybe even used as a Garrot to stealthily take down enemies.

[@New2Kendo]

My understanding of the Sageo (Edo period I believe) is it was used to tie back the sleeves of the Kimono since they hung down, and could get in the way in a fight. Of course this comes from James Williams and my school of Nami Ryu, which it may be specifc to, as each school has its own idiosyncrasies. It is also shown for that use in allot of Chambara cinema, so that use may have some historical accuracy

[@Yuriel1981]

This was my understanding as well.

[@roninwolf3347]

I use it during storing to tie down the blade into the sheath for safety reasons. The blade cannot slip out of the sheath

[@sethdusith6093]

How do you tie back the sleeves with a Rope attached to the saya? Do you take it out?

[@New2Kendo]

@@roninwolf3347 I do as well

[@New2Kendo]

@@sethdusith6093 you would remove the Sageo from the Saya then use it to tie back your sleeves. I will lookup a movie and link it here

[@sevenproxies4255]

Using a mekugi makes a lot of practical sense. Any stress on the sword is going to go against the grain of the mekugi, so it's very unlikely to split or break. BUT if it does break, then it's likely it will break before other parts if the swordhandle would. Which is probably done on purpose. I know for example in some machinery that face stress, we like to use softer metals for some parts (like brass) because during maintenance it's easier to repair if the brass parts get worn and break before any of the steel parts do. I'd imagine that Japanese sword smiths thought in a similar way. Better the mekugi breaks if the sword takes a hit, rather than the entire handle splitting open because you made a mekugi out of steel.

[@suprememasteroftheuniverse]

The handle is tied (tsuka-maki) exactly because of it. Having a steel tang inside a wooden handle will eventually split the wood apart. Mekugi had nothing to do with it. A metal rivet wouldn't be easy to remove.

[@AdamOwenBrowning]

Thank you for this information!

[@Laarye]

I remember older samurai movies where the Sageo were used to tie up the sleeves. However, you tend to see more people or characters use it like that without actually carrying a sword. Also, using it to tie the sleeves, would leave you unable to tie the scabbard to the belt.

[@KurokkuSama]

Now that I think about the uses of the Sageo... It could be also used to tie up the sheath to the horses' straps, so the samurais that used to go in horse to the battlefield could draw their sword quickly while going directly to the enemy or to hold it for long distances trips... So the sword also won't fall while the samurai was on his horse... Well that's my theory...

[@kingloucifur8086]

I've have a theory that the Sageo could have been used to identify a Samurai that has fallen in battle or a general kind of identifier. The colour and shape of the knot could signify the owner to those familiar with it.

[@TheEthanEdge]

maybe if they lost their armour and sword.

[@finns23653]

Rope is one of the most useful and versatile tools humanity has ever had.... It literally has thousands of practical uses and it was even more useful in the past.... Perhaps the sageo was kind of like how some ppl wear a Paracord bracelet today.... Samurai knew that they might need something like a rope for any number of uses and found a convenient and stylish way to carry some with them

[@thelivingcat0210]

Thank you for referencing other schools’s use of the sageo. The my Sensei explained it to me that the sageo in ancient times, was tied like how jikiden ties it, just gone around many more times, so there is no loose sageo. That way, the saya is secured in place, and doesn’t move as much

[@susanroberts7492]

Beautiful! I am thoroughly enjoying learning iaido myself! 5 months in and learning the first four seitei kata along with all the etiquette and how to wear gi properly. It's a wonderful experience! I love it! Thanks, Shogo!

[@KaptainCanuck]

It is a dogi or keikogi, not simply "ki" (it is -ki if there is no word before it like KImono and -gi with a word before it). Even a hakam is dogi/keikogi in a sense.

[@mscottdowning9682]

I lived in Japan for two years. Your shows bring back those years of enjoyment.

[@robertcurrie1160]

Congratulations on 100k ! 👍

[@Dark_Mind6439]

More like congrats on almost getting 200k ! 👍

[@amuplay2302]

69th like :D

[@sfkingalpha]

@@Dark_Mind6439 more like 300k

[@robertocortez8087]

436k now

[@thebadingandthemukhangmama2216]

644k subs congrats 🎉

[@IKEMENOsakaman]

I always learn new things on this channel. Each video brings me one step closer to being a samurai.

[@Deathbringer99699]

Hosh!!

[@jameslatief1]

Well deserved 100k subs! High quality videos every other day, it's no surprise he's able to hit the goal this April ( 9 months early).

[@amazin1219]

This man is the only reason i bought a katana.

[@davidl5452]

Thank you for another informative video. I love how the katana, along with Europe swords, evolved over the years from tools to functional works of art.

[@TheRealViking]

Thank you! I am learning with each of your videos.

[@TenchiBushi]

As usual you do great work! I was taught that the sageo was used as a multi tool more often. 2 occasions at my hombu dojo in Noda-shi, that the sageo had been used to restrain an opponent. Hello from Aomori!

[@icemaiden9534]

im loving the way you present the videos as the information is broken up into bite sized segemnts making it easier to absorb and understand the information.

[@JerryListener]

This is now my favourite channel of... EVER!! Thank you so much for educating this gaijin!!

[@hex-2748]

You're so fluent in English with clear accent. Japanese officers from our company have strong Japanese accent which makes it hard for me to understand what they speak most of the time. By the way, you explained the topic very well. That deserves a thumbs up.

[@vanarzyksianardeamnis3078]

I'm so happy that you reached 100k subs!!! You earned them

[@nielsandersen6164]

Awesome video. I learned more about the construction of the Katana in these 25min than the previous 25years. Thank you.

[@RJH_LIL]

Maybe your goal should be 150,000 subscribers by 2022 instead. Congrats on your milestone 👏

[@varisleek3360]

im from the future, hes almost there

[@cameronbeck7238]

@@varisleek3360 thanks for the tip bro

[@cameronbeck7238]

I’m also from the future and he’s made it

[@ausgamer529]

@@cameronbeck7238 he is past it!!!

[@teeprice7499]

All of your videos are very well-made and instructive.

[@BustinBenny]

As a former student of Iaido thank you for the review. Some things I remember and some things I didn't know. Thanks again.

[@Joshua_Shadow_Manriguez]

All this stuff about Samurai is making me want to rewatch Drifters and maybe hear your thoughts on Toyohisa's fighting technique.

[@crowjedi]

I'm really enjoying the channel, and the insights you bring. I also appreciate how you show the written word and how to pronounce key words for each video. I find it very helpful as I am currently learning Japanese.

[@user-bz5vf9oy8l]

Shogo has taught me everything about the katana. I have been a fan of the katana for a long time. When I was living in the state of California, I dreamt about having a katana in my hands and learning how to use it like a samurai.

[@mst2203]

That katana with the musashi style tsuba is beautiful! Pretty hamon and polish.

[@AmbiCahira]

Congratulations on 100k!!! I'm so happy for you to reach this milestone so quickly!! And this video was super interesting. :)

[@marcooliveira9335]

Thank you for presenting this in such an easy way to understand. I very much appreciate your time and kindness for sharing it.

[@kimemerson5732]

Thank you for this video; as always I have learned very much from you! CONGRATULATIONS on your 100,000 subscribers, you accomplished this so fast!! Hugs to your beautiful family!

[@ToNzHoLtZ]

Thank you for sharing I am learning a lot, I been wanting to own a Katana my whole life, I have finally bought 2 and I absolutely love the Katana. I also practice with your instruction, again thank you. Peace and love from North Bay, Ontario, Canada.

[@oz3578]

I have been waiting for a channel like this for a long time, an other great video. Thank you for your detail and explaining.

[@aleksandarradovanovic0802]

Very good explanations, as usual. Thank you 😊👍🙏

[@dreamscapedg2774]

Your mastery of personality is as impressive as your knowledge of the art, and the science of the culture. Great to watch you! I appreciate and respect your discipline, and the smoothness of your style of communication. Very thoughtful, concise explanations, and you make the learning fun. Truly masterful, Shogosan!

[@luiseninool7148]

Thank you so much Shogo for the time you take, the effort to research and edit your videos , I really enjoy watching and learning ...Greetings from Peru !

[@ezt_gamer3408]

You make so interesting videos I'm so big fan of japanese history and weapons

[@triol13]

Shogo-san, thank you for the explaining of the parts of the Katana. Very well done and in a way every one can understand.

[@kronos01ful]

I love this Chanel 😀❤. You are very informative and simple to understand. Very entertaining. Great Job! I love Japan!!!

[@somekriegsoldier2561]

I'm watch you from Spain, in Europe, and i have to say that i love your youtube channel. Keep it up, you have a new suscriber!

[@user-yc7mi4ci8y]

Very clear explanation video tutorials, thanks for sharing!!!

[@garydell2023]

Shogo-san Arigato. I always learn something watching you.

[@joeperez3520]

Congratulations on reaching 100K subscribers.

[@michaeldavis4880]

Thank you for the lessons on the Katana. Very informative and interesting.

[@tgood5527]

I noticed I keep watching your videos since I decided to subscribe, thanks for the helpful information you’re a knowledgeable guy.

[@thierryroethlisberger7633]

Excellent explained 🙏🏻

[@philipdow5463]

Very interesting I especially like the bit at the end in your living room Thank you

[@JimDebones]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@rickmiles3242]

Hello my friend, how are you? I am a new subscriber. I have been taking Shotokan Karate since I was very young, about eight years old, I am 40 now. I have a deep appreciation for Japanese Martial Arts and culture, it's very close to my heart. You are so thorough and so professional and your videos are so well executed. Just perfect!! You are a great teacher my friend Shogo, and I just wanted to let you know how very much I appreciate you, your videos, and all the time and work and effort you put into it all. Bless you dear Shogo, and your family, and stay safe!! Thank you so much again!!!

[@kitsunekierein7253]

In English, the metal part that passes through the handle is called a Tang. Saying metal part confused me for a minute until I realized you were talking about the Tang. Im new to the channel, but im definitely subscribing! These videos are so fascinating and educational! My area of knowledge and experience is more in the European bastard sword and the warhammer, but i love learning about the weapons and martial arts from around the world. I know basically nothing about the Japanese martial system, and have only a passing familiarity with more iconic Japanese weapons like the katana, wakizashi, Tonto, and naginata. I love how well-spoken and knowledgeable you are! Keep it up, stranger friend! 😊

[@jantravis4616]

I really appreciate you talking about the katana . It made me take a look at mine. I have a black wooden one to practice with and the other one is a real sword with a pink sheath . Arigato on the lesson on the katana. I'm glad you did one from Demon Slayer 😈

[@anas-432]

Great video! Always love these types of videos.

[@annaannabella1236]

V.E.R.Y. interesting. Especially the ending demonstrations. Thanks

[@kjrodriguez835]

Great lesson, learned much, answered many questions I had, thank you.

[@purplehexaballs]

i am proud to be one of the first subscribers after 100k because this is genuinely super awesome stuff to watch

[@ameerzuher5347]

Keep on uploading cuz your videos are always entertaining and educational to me and i love it ❤❤❤

[@osavor579]

I never knew about the hidden meaning on the tsuba so cool! I love the videos!

[@gustavofreire4969]

Thank you for sharing so much knowledge. I am enjoying every video. Oss!

[@adamjensin4993]

Wish i could sign in your schools. I love Japanese's culture soo much. May every one reach thier dreams☺️

[@Richardjpope01]

I love your videos sir, they are very interesting and very organized

[@SjefSjaakie]

love this video, could you perhaps make a video entirely centered around the meanings of tsuba desings, i think it's a really interesting subject but can't find anything about it besides this video.

[@ralaci007]

I started learning Katori Shinto Ryu recently at a local school, your videos are great supplements to the teachings. Thank you for sharing!

[@joshuapaul359]

When using the sageo to carry on your back, tie it to the base of the sheath. It makes it much more stable.

[@maurols87]

Your videos are awesome! ありがとうございます。🙇🏻‍♂️

[@Cruznick06]

Thank you so much for these videos. I have always been very interested in katana and wakazashi but it can be difficult to find accurate information in English. I especially like that you have subtitles and clearly explain the Japanese names of each part.

[@lsporter88]

Very thorough explanation. Thank you. You're actually kind of a Smooth Dude. Great video.

[@brutallyhonest8854]

Very informative great video I enjoy the way you explain all aspects of the Katana well done 👍

[@oberonking471]

Well Done! Seriously, great concise detail…

[@ronbabitch258]

Shogo thank you so much for your content. You’ve made me fall in love with Japanese history and culture. One day I really hope to visit. ありがとうございます。🇨🇦

[@marielawson5095]

Very nice ipponme!! Thanks for sharing this wonderful video. :)

[@nektariostournatzis4248]

Congratulations for your video.i love learn more and more for japan

[@M1Tommy]

My congratulations to you for the goal of viewers. Your video was really good, with very nice, informative, and organized video descriptions. Lastly, thank you for sharing your Iaido kata. There is "so much" in these kata. Yours is very smooth. Sincerely......

[@carraosborne1621]

This is very educational to Starter Samurai fans like me, it actualy helped me learn more about the Katana i actualy have a Kimono, hakama ,gee set

[@kinatoyukiko8138]

All of this information is very very helpful thank you so much

[@criticalerror121]

What a great content! Thank you for your videos 🙏

[@erichusayn]

Very, very good video. Learned quite a bit. I respect you and your videos cuz the sword is not just a hobby for you, you actually live it.

[@alexanderg7677]

Thank you! I was searching such information after beating Sekiro first time. Now i have to view all your videos before next runs :)

[@Jcarroz]

Great video. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@robertcurrie1160]

Thank you Shogo I learn so much from your videos ! 👌 ✌️

[@ZX-Gear]

Yeah. I never noticed the ura or otome knots at the end of the tsuka maki till looking up vids on how to tie a tsuka Maki knot. This was very educational and made me realize how much practical use various parts of the katana have and how they weren't just for looks.

[@AlexB2998]

Thanks dude, very cool knowledge to have

[@yousefshahin2654]

Congratulations, Shogo, on the 100 thousand subscribers, greetings from Egypt😀🇪🇬🇯🇵

[@amedeus40k]

Thank you for the educational video from an American. I found the video very interesting, and I learned a lot. Medieval Japan, and it's history is incredibly fascinating. Again, Domo Arigato

[@a.N.....]

I hope you enjoyed your time living in Michigan! And the wonderful nature of our landscape reminds you of home.

[@ShadowPuppet3001]

great video, after seeing your video you are a true ninja master, and I like watching your videos...

[@knightingalesaid]

An awesome video! Thanks for sharing!!

[@pyros.]

This is great! I'm making a few katanas for a 3d character and really wanted to understand each part of it to ground it as much as possible to reality. I did a lot of research and never found any mention of the shark leather, so that was awesome to find out about!

[@frankcowan6625]

I just have swords and one is a katana. Buy I can't get enough of you and your friends and your information. Thanks!!!!

[@anikokariko1887]

Congratulations you’ve hit 100K!

[@roxas3soraxxx]

your enjoyable to watch thanks for your video

[@chrisbradbury9350]

Thank you for making this video. I train iaido in Australia and liked your demonstration of Mei.

[@lucaebasta63]

Thank you Yamaguchi "masuta" for sharing your knowledge of your amazing culture. I am writing to you from Italy and I am a lover of your country. I'm trying to finish an ambitious process: to create a completely handmade wooden katana and your explanations have been invaluable. I think this will be "blasphemous" for you, but it is impossible for me, to create a katana out of steel. I will continue to follow you on your channel, and maybe who knows one day I will be able to come to Japan. Thank you so much. Ciao, Luca.

[@chrisegbertky]

So great! I learned a lot!

[@Aqua_v1]

I love the little characters he makes

[@MesiterSode]

100 000 subscribers reached! 🙌🎊

[@brandonward3551]

Another awesome vid. Very informative of my favorite weapon that I plan to get during next year's cherry blossom season...Hopefully when/if covid allows. Also liked your new intro involving the multiple aspects of your channel.

[@davidlouis1298]

Very informative video. I like the content.

[@markm1261]

Well informed and thank you it's A lot I did not know about.

[@MurakamiTenshi]

Congrats on 100k!