The nodachi, or “great sword,” is a variant of the tachi, a traditional Japanese sword. Any tachi exceeding five shaku (approximately 150 cm) in length is classified as a nodachi. The tachi itself was primarily a weapon for mounted samurai, used in cavalry battles like the famous ikkito(single combat). Its length, typically between 2.3 and 3 shaku (70 to 90 cm), made it ideal for cutting enemies from horseback. Shorter versions, under 2 shaku, were called “small tachi” and were relatively uncommon.
As warfare intensified, samurai demanded weapons with greater reach and power. Swordsmiths, seeking to increase lethality and range, began crafting longer and heavier blades. This innovation led to the creation of the nodachi, and eventually, the massive nodachi—a sword of truly extraordinary dimensions.
Interestingly, the distinction between a tachi and a katana is not solely based on length. For example, the tachi is worn with the blade edge facing downward, while the katana is carried edge-up. The scabbards of the two also differ: the tachi’s scabbard features metal fittings called ashi-kanamono, which allowed it to be secured with silk cords, whereas katana scabbards are simpler and lack such embellishments.
Within the category of nodachi, some swords were pushed to their physical limits, resulting in the massive nodachi. Historical records mention blades up to 9 shaku 3 sun (about 282 cm). However, such swords were impractical for real combat. Their enormous size made them nearly impossible to wield effectively in battle. Instead, they were often crafted as hono-to (dedication swords), ceremonial offerings to shrines meant to symbolize devotion and prayer.
Standard nodachi, on the other hand, typically measured between five and six shaku and were indeed used in combat. Because of their length and weight, they required a two-handed grip and were usually carried across the back rather than worn at the hip like smaller swords. These weapons were particularly effective in foot combat, where their long reach could cut down multiple opponents in a single swing.
You might be wondering, how big and heavy could an nodachi be?
A notable example of a giant nodachi is the Haja-no-Odachi housed in Hachiman Shrine in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Measuring 4.65 meters in total length, with a blade length of 3.45 meters and a weight of 75 kg, it is one of the largest swords ever created.
The nodachi was a terrifying weapon, especially in skirmishes or non-formation battles. During the Ming dynasty, Chinese general Qi Jiguang wrote about the fearsome impact of Wokou wielding such long blades:
"These long swords first appeared when the Japanese invaded China. They shine brilliantly as they are wielded, striking fear into our troops. The Japanese leap forward with a single bound, covering more than a meter, and their blades, over five feet long, can strike from a great distance. Our short weapons cannot counter them effectively, and those struck are often cleaved in two."
In the hands of a skilled and strong warrior, the nodachi could break through enemy formations and mow down infantry, earning it a reputation as a “line breaker.” Samurai often used the nodachi to disrupt pike lines and create openings in the enemy's defense.
(The Wokou, also known as "Yahata," refers to a general term for Japanese pirate groups that invaded coastal areas of China, Korea, and Southeast Asia from the 13th to the 16th century. The members of these groups came from diverse and complex backgrounds. They were called Wokou because ancient Chinese texts referred to Japan as "Wokou".
The nodachi’s prominence peaked during the Kamakura to Muromachi periods. However, as firearms and new combat tactics emerged, the nodachi gradually disappeared from battlefields. Still, its legacy endured as a symbol of samurai strength and valor. The massive nodachi, while largely ceremonial, demonstrated the craftsmen’s skill and the samurai’s desire for weapons that embodied power and intimidation.
Though few warriors in history mastered the massive nodachi, its unique characteristics and imposing presence remain a fascinating chapter in the history of Japanese weaponry. Today, these swords are treasured as museum artifacts and symbols of Japan’s rich martial heritage.
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