Zatoïchi, the famous blind swordsman of Japanese cinema, is a fictional character created by novelist Kan Shimozawa in 1948. He plays a blind itinerant masseur, a member of the Guild of the Blind (Tōdōza), active during the Edo period (1603-1868). This guild, established in the XIVᵉ century, brought together blind practitioners practicing trades such as music, massage and acupuncture.
Although Zatoïchi is a literary creation, it is inspired by this historical reality. The character, played by Shintarō Katsu in a series of films and a TV series, is renowned for his exceptional mastery of the sword, despite his blindness. He uses a cane concealing a blade, and his adventures often bring him face to face with injustices that he strives to correct.
Zatoichi symbolizes resilience and justice, and his character has left a lasting mark on Japanese popular culture, inspiring many later works.
From the Forge to Your Hand: Handcrafted Katanas and Exceptional Swords
Samurai & Katana | Middle Ages & Swords | Templar | Legend & Cinema 
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