Tsuba

What is a Tsuba?

The Tsuba (鍔 / つば) is the hand guard of a traditional Japanese sword, such as a katana or wakizashi. Positioned between the blade and the handle (tsuka), the tsuba serves both functional and aesthetic purposes—protecting the hand during combat and acting as a canvas for artistic metalwork.

A tsuba is the hand guard of a Japanese sword, designed to protect the wielder and enhance the sword’s balance. Beyond its utility, the tsuba is also a unique piece of art—reflecting the soul of the sword and the spirit of the craftsman who made it.