Wakazashi: Art by Meheekano

The Wakazashi is a short sword used in Japan as early as the 16th century. It is approximately 12-23 inches in length and worn blade edge up. The Wakazashi was worn by the Samurai, along with the Katana as part of a matching set called a Daisho. If the Katana was broken, the shorter Wakazashi could be used in its place. It was also considered bad etiquette to wear a long sword indoors, so by the use of a Wakazashi the Samurai would not be vulnerable indoors.