What is the difference between a Chinese Jian and a Japanese Katana?

The Jian is a double-edged straight sword used in China for over 2,500 years, symbolizing balance and wisdom. The Katana is a single-edged curved blade from Japan, designed for powerful cutting and associated with the samurai ethos.

Which sword is better for martial arts practice?

It depends on the martial art. The Jian is often used in Tai Chi and Wushu for fluid movements and balance, while the Katana is central to Japanese arts like Kendo, Iaido, and Kenjutsu, focusing on cutting precision.

Are Jian swords sharpened?

Most functional Jian swords are sharpened, but many sellers also offer blunt training versions. Always check the product description or request the edge style before purchase.

Do Katana and Jian use different forging techniques?

Yes. Jian are typically forged in Longquan using folded high-carbon steel and polished to reveal Damascus-style patterns. Katana are traditionally made with tamahagane steel, clay-tempered to produce the hamon line.

Where can I buy authentic Jian or Katana?

Authentic swords are best purchased from trusted makers. Our store offers hand-forged Chinese Jian and other traditional swords crafted in Longquan: https://www.chinesesword.store/collections/jian-straight-swords

Collection: Sword

Sword

Tang jian,High carbon steel,Leather scabbard

Tang jian,High carbon steel,Leather scabbard

Regular price $106.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $106.00 USD
Songhe sword,Folding pattern steel blade,Alloy fitting,Black scabbard,Length 41"

Songhe sword,Folding pattern steel blade,Alloy fitting,Black scabbard,Length 41"

Regular price $150.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $150.00 USD
Han swords/Damascus steel red blade/Redwood scabbard/Alloy fittings

Han swords/Damascus steel red blade/Redwood scabbard/Alloy fittings

Regular price $170.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $170.00 USD
Han jian,High carbon steel etch blade,Alloy scabbard,Chinese sword

Han jian,High carbon steel etch blade,Alloy scabbard,Chinese sword

Regular price $156.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $156.00 USD
Fengyun sword,Hand forged High carbon steel blue blade,Rosewood,Alloy

Fengyun sword,Hand forged High carbon steel blue blade,Rosewood,Alloy

Regular price $158.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $158.00 USD
Fengyun sword,Damascus steel blade,Rosewood scabbard,Alloy fitting

Fengyun sword,Damascus steel blade,Rosewood scabbard,Alloy fitting

Regular price $192.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $192.00 USD
Yuewang jian/High carbon steel blade/Black wood scabbard

Yuewang jian/High carbon steel blade/Black wood scabbard

Regular price $138.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $138.00 USD
Fengyun jian/High carbon steel blade/Black wood scabbard/Alloy handle

Fengyun jian/High carbon steel blade/Black wood scabbard/Alloy handle

Regular price $158.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $158.00 USD
Chinese sword,Han jian(Folded steel octahedral blade,Black wood scabbard,Alloy fitted)Length 32"

Chinese sword,Han jian(Folded steel octahedral blade,Black wood scabbard,Alloy fitted)Length 32"

Regular price $172.00 USD

Regular price Sale price $172.00 USD

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Collection: Sword

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