The Legend of Hizamaru: Kyoto’s Demon-Slaying Blade
In the misty annals of Japanese history, few artifacts bridge the gap between historical fact and supernatural folklore quite like the Nihonto—the Japanese sword. Among these legendary blades, Hizamaru stands out not just for its craftsmanship, but for the myths that cling to its steel. A treasured heirloom of the Minamoto (Genji) clan, Hizamaru is more than a weapon; it is a character in its own right, having changed names and owners throughout centuries of bloodshed and glory.
For culture lovers and travelers heading to Kyoto, understanding the story of Hizamaru unlocks a fascinating layer of Japan’s feudal past. Join us as we unsheathe the history of the “Knee Cutter.”
The Origins of a Genji Treasure
Hizamaru (膝丸) dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), a time when the imperial court flourished, and the samurai class began its ascent to power. According to tradition, the sword was commissioned by Minamoto no Mitsunaka, a pivotal figure in the establishment of the Minamoto clan’s military might.
Legend dictates that the Emperor ordered a smith to forge two blades using iron from a miraculous source. The smith forged two swords: Higekiri (The Beard Cutter) and Hizamaru (The Knee Cutter). These two blades became the hereditary treasures of the Genji clan, passed down to legendary warriors like Minamoto no Yorimitsu (Raiko) and Minamoto no Yoshitsune.
While Higekiri is currently housed at the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Hizamaru resides in the serene Daikaku-ji Temple, making the pair a dual pilgrimage for sword enthusiasts.
Legends and The Many Names of Hizamaru
One of the most unique aspects of Japanese sword lore is that blades often change names based on their exploits. Hizamaru is famous for having evolved through four distinct names, each telling a violent story.
1. Hizamaru (The Knee Cutter)
Upon its creation, the sword was tested on the body of a convicted criminal. The blade was so sharp that it cut through the neck of the convict and continued downward, severing the knees. Thus, it was named Hizamaru.
2. Kumokiri (The Spider Cutter)
The sword’s most supernatural legend involves Minamoto no Yorimitsu. While suffering from a mysterious illness caused by a Tsuchigumo (Earth Spider) yōkai, Yorimitsu struck at a shadow haunting him. The sword wounded the giant spider, breaking its curse. In honor of slaying the monster, the sword was renamed Kumokiri.
3. Hoemaru (The Roaring Circle)
Generations later, the sword came into the possession of Minamoto no Tameyoshi. It is said that at night, the sword would let out a terrifying roar, like a beast in the dark. Consequently, it was renamed Hoemaru.
4. Usumidori (Pale Green)
Finally, the sword reached the hands of the tragic hero Minamoto no Yoshitsune. He renamed it Usumidori after the beautiful, pale green scenery of the mountains in spring. It was wielding this blade (or its legend) that Yoshitsune fought his historic battles alongside the warrior monk Benkei.
Hizamaru in Modern Culture
While the sword sat quietly in temple storage for centuries, it has recently seen a massive resurgence in popularity due to Japanese pop culture. The browser game and anime series Touken Ranbu personifies historical swords as handsome warriors. Hizamaru appears as a pale-haired young man who is devoted to his brother, Higekiri.
This characterization has revitalized interest in sword appreciation (kanshō) among younger generations and international fans. Additionally, the story of the Earth Spider remains a popular play in Kabuki and Noh theater, keeping the legend of the Spider Cutter alive on stage.
Traveler’s Tips: Visiting Hizamaru
If you want to see the blade that severed the Earth Spider, you must head to Kyoto. Here is how to plan your visit:
- Location: Daikaku-ji Temple (Saga-Arashiyama area, Kyoto).
- Access: Take a bus from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk through the Saga district.
- Viewing Schedule: Hizamaru is an Important Cultural Property and is not always on public display. It is typically shown during special treasure viewings in Autumn (October–November) and sometimes in Spring. Always check the Daikaku-ji official website before planning your trip specifically for the sword.
- Temple Etiquette: Daikaku-ji is a sprawling complex with a beautiful pond (Osawa-no-Ike). It is an active religious site. Photography is usually prohibited inside the treasure halls (Reihōkan), though allowed in the gardens.
- Goshuin: Don’t forget to bring your Goshuin-cho (stamp book). The temple offers a calligraphy stamp specifically referencing the sword during viewing periods.
Sources & Further Reading
For those wishing to delve deeper into the history of the Genji clan and their swords, the following texts provide the historical and mythological foundation:
- The Tale of the Heike (Heike Monogatari): Chronicles the struggle between the Taira and Minamoto clans, featuring the wielders of these swords.
- Taiheiki: A historical epic that details the lineage and legends of the swords.
- Otogizōshi: A collection of Muromachi-period tales that popularized the Tsuchigumo (Earth Spider) legend.
Whether you call it the Knee Cutter, the Spider Slayer, or simply Hizamaru, this blade represents the razor-thin line between history and myth—a line you can walk yourself in the ancient capital of Kyoto.