Japanese katanas are traditional swords known for their curved, single-edged blades and distinctive handguard. They are crafted using a unique forging technique that involves folding the steel multiple times, which enhances the blade's strength and flexibility. The katana's design allows for quick, precise cuts, making it a favored weapon among samurai. The katana is often associated with the samurai, the warrior class of feudal Japan. These swords are not only functional weapons but also works of art, often featuring intricate designs on the blade and hilt. Today, katanas are highly valued by collectors and martial artists alike.