Boshi

The Boshi is the Hamon pattern on the tip, or Kissaki, on Japanese Swords. This pattern requires more ability to create than the other parts of the blade and demonstrates the smiths abilities. If the the boshi turns back toward the nakago, where it touches the mune (back of the blade), that is called Kaeri. Only a few of the 12-20 patterns regularly seen are described below.

O-Maru

Large circle turnback.

Yakizume

The hamon runs off the back of the blade without turning back.

Ichimai

The hamon fills, or nearly fills, the tip area.

Kaeri-Fukai

Long turnback (Kaeri = return. Fukai = deep)

Hakikake

Brushed

Kaen

Flame

Midareba

Irregular