What Makes the Shirasaya Different from the Shikomizue?

The Shirasaya is a featureless Saya or scabbard, while the Shikomizue is a concealed sword disguised as a cane. The former protects the blade while the latter conceals it for self-defense purposes.

A lot of people assume that Shirasaya and Shikomizue are the same. However, these are two different things; in fact, these also have varying characteristics.

Characteristics of the Shirasaya and Shikomizue

Since the Shirasaya was designed to protect the blade, it was a plain piece of wood. The material used to produce it was Honoki wood, a type of Japanese magnolia. It effectively prevents air and moisture from entering while allowing the blade to breathe.

The Shikomizue, on the other hand, had ornaments sometimes appear like a walking cane. Others had plain wooden mountings to make these look like a walking stick.

Functions of the Shirasaya and Shikomizue

The Shirasaya was made to store the Nihonto for extended periods. It was believed to be invented during the Edo period since this was when carrying swords was prohibited. Because of that, there was no combat and warfare, so the Nihonto did not have any purpose.

Unlike the Koshirae, which was the Saya used for combat, the Shirasaya was not suitable for battles. It was because the air-tight fit of the Shirasaya didn’t allow for the wielder to easily unsheathe the sword.

The Shikomizue had another purpose. As mentioned, this concealed sword appeared like a cane or walking stick, so it was effective for self-defense. Its mounting was also used to hide other weapons like chains, hooks, and smoke bombs.

When using the Shikomizue, the wielder would pull the handle from the Saya to reveal the medium-length blade. The wielder would then perform slashing or piercing thrust attacks. It was one of the ideal weapons for combat in closed quarters.

What Type of Wood Was Used for Making the Shirasaya?

Honoki is the type of wood used for creating the Shirasaya, and it is a Japanese magnolia. This material has excellent qualities such as durability and high resistance.

Honoki wood was utilized for the Shirasaya since it’s the best material to keep a Nihonto safe and protected.

Durability of Honoki Wood

Honoki wood is a highly durable material that lasts over a thousand years. It’s one of the most durable and preservable types of wood in the world.

In fact, Japan used Honoki wood for building temples around 1,300 years ago. Today, about 65% of these remain.

Also, Honoki wood absorbs shock. This makes it a suitable material for the Shirasaya since it can keep swords protected when stored for longer periods.

High Resistance Against Various Elements

Aside from being durable, Honoki wood is also resistant against mold and the like. It doesn’t rot, so the Samurai didn’t have to worry about storing their swords in the Shirasaya for prolonged periods.

Honoki wood is also highly resistant against moisture, which is another reason why it’s used for creating a Shirasaya. During storage, the blade of a Nihonto like the Katana shouldn’t come in contact with moisture since this causes corrosion.

Additionally, Honoki wood is resistant to water and humidity. This proves that a Shirasaya can prevent moisture and corrosion of swords. It’s also resistant against warping.

Why Was Honoki Wood Used for the Shirasaya?

When the government banned the Samurai from carrying swords, the Nihonto no longer had any use on the battlefield. Because of that, they had to find ways to store their swords and retain their quality and condition.

As mentioned, Honoki wood has a lot of characteristics that make it suitable for creating the Shirasaya. Since it’s constructed with a tight fit, it efficiently prevents moisture from coming in contact with the blade. This is why the material is used for the Shirasaya.

In fact, Honoki wood was not only used for the Shirasaya. The Japanese people also utilized it for flooring, furniture, walls, and other items.