Doji-giri Yasutsuna: The Legend of the Demon Slayer Sword
In the pantheon of Japanese weaponry, few blades command as much reverence and mystical allure as the Doji-giri Yasutsuna. Known as the “Demon Slayer,” this sword is not merely a relic of warfare; it is a masterpiece of metallurgy and a tangible piece of Japanese folklore. For culture enthusiasts and travelers fascinated by the samurai era, understanding the story of Doji-giri is essential to appreciating the depth of Japan’s martial history.
Designated as a National Treasure of Japan, the Doji-giri is the most celebrated of the Tenka-Goken, or the “Five Swords Under Heaven.” It represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship from the Heian period and serves as a bridge between historical fact and the supernatural legends that defined ancient Japan.
The Origins of a Masterpiece
The Doji-giri was forged during the Heian period (approx. 794–1185 AD) by the legendary swordsmith Hoki-no-Kuni Yasutsuna. Yasutsuna is often cited as the father of the Japanese sword, credited with defining the curved shape (sori) that distinguishes the samurai blade from earlier straight swords.
The blade itself is a tachi, a type of long sword worn with the cutting edge facing down, predating the more commonly known katana. Measuring approximately 80 centimeters (31.5 inches) in length, it is celebrated for its exquisite hamon (temper line) and the elegant curvature that gives it both beauty and lethal efficiency. While many swords from this era have succumbed to rust or damage, the Doji-giri remains in remarkably pristine condition, a testament to Yasutsuna’s unparalleled skill.
The Legend: Slaying the Demon King
The name “Doji-giri” literally translates to “Doji Cutter” or “Slayer of Shuten-doji.” This moniker is derived from one of the most famous tales in Japanese folklore: the slaying of the demon king, Shuten-doji.
According to the legend, during the reign of Emperor Ichijo, the capital of Kyoto was plagued by disappearances. Young women, including daughters of nobility, were vanishing in the night. The culprit was identified as Shuten-doji, a fearsome oni (demon) residing on Mount Oeyama. The Emperor dispatched the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yorimitsu (also known as Raiko) and his four lieutenants to end the terror.
Disguised as wandering mountain priests (yamabushi), Yorimitsu and his men infiltrated the demon’s lair. They tricked Shuten-doji into drinking sake laced with a “divine poison” that rendered the demon unconscious. Seizing the moment, Yorimitsu drew his sword—crafted by Yasutsuna—and decapitated the monster.
The legend claims the sword was so sharp that it cut through the demon’s thick neck effortlessly. Furthermore, in the Edo period, the sword was allegedly used in a test cut (tameshigiri) where it sliced through six piled bodies and into the earth below, solidifying its reputation as the sharpest sword in existence.
Modern Culture and Significance
Today, the Doji-giri Yasutsuna transcends its physical form to become a pop culture icon. It appears frequently in anime, manga, and video games, often wielded by ultimate warriors or serving as a high-level item. Fans of the franchise Touken Ranbu will recognize Doji-giri as a character personifying the blade’s noble and powerful history.
Beyond entertainment, the sword is regarded as the “Yokozuna” (grand champion) of the Tenka-Goken. It is a symbol of protection and authority. Historically, it was a treasured heirloom of the Ashikaga Shogunate, passing through the hands of warlords like Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, before eventually resting with the Tsuyama Matsudaira clan.
Traveler’s Tips: Seeing the Legend
For travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of this steel legend, planning is required. The Doji-giri Yasutsuna is currently housed at the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park. However, due to its status as a National Treasure and the need for preservation, it is not on permanent display.
How to Visit:
- Check the Schedule: The Tokyo National Museum rotates its sword exhibits periodically. Visit their official website to see if the Doji-giri is scheduled for a special exhibition, often themed around “National Treasures” or “The Art of the Sword.”
- Mount Oeyama: If the sword isn’t on display, you can still immerse yourself in the lore by visiting Mt. Oeyama in Kyoto Prefecture. The area features the Japanese Oni Exchange Museum and hiking trails that retrace the steps of Minamoto no Yorimitsu.
- Sword Museums: While in Tokyo, visit the Japanese Sword Museum in Sumida. Even if Doji-giri isn’t there, you can learn about the Tenka-Goken and the forging techniques of Yasutsuna.
Sources & Further Reading
- Otogizoshi: A collection of medieval short stories that details the legend of Shuten-doji and Minamoto no Yorimitsu.
- The Tale of the Heike: Provides historical context on the Minamoto clan and the warrior culture of the era.
- Tokyo National Museum Archives: Official records regarding the provenance and specifications of the Doji-giri Yasutsuna.