Understanding Issho’s Yakuza Kasen in One Piece

Overview

  • **Yakuza Kasen** is classified as one of the **12 Supreme Grade Blades** in the One Piece universe, and it is wielded by Navy Admiral **Issho**.
  • This sword functions as a concealed **shikomizue**, enhancing its effectiveness for the blind Issho.
  • Issho primarily utilizes Yakuza Kasen to channel his **Devil Fruit powers**, enabling formidable gravitational attacks, rather than for direct combat.

Contents

The lore of **One Piece** has always placed a significant emphasis on swordsmen, making legendary blades integral to the story since its inception. Among the **12 Supreme Grade Blades** and other notable weapons, characters are often defined by their iconic swords. This has prompted fans to delve deep into the background and significance of each blade, fostering ongoing discussions.

When the conversation shifts towards legendary swords, names like Roger’s Ace, Mihawk’s Yoru, and Shanks’s Gryphon immediately come to mind. However, **Issho’s Yakuza Kasen** ranks among the most fascinating swords in the series. This Supreme Grade Blade, associated with a high-ranking Navy Admiral, deserves more attention than it typically receives. The manner in which the sword is introduced may contribute to this oversight, yet Yakuza Kasen remains crucial in the grand narrative of One Piece.

What is Issho’s Yakuza Kasen?

One of the 12 Supreme Grade Blades

Admiral Issho in One Piece

The **12 Supreme Grade Blades** represent the pinnacle of weaponry in the One Piece realm. While most of these renowned blades are swords, a few distinct weapons exist among them, including a notable naginata. Currently recognized Supreme Grade Blades include Mihawk’s Yoru, Whitebeard’s naginata Murakumogiri, Roger’s Ace, Issho’s Yakuza Kasen, and Shodai Kitetsu. Representing a deviation from tradition, Issho stands as the solitary Marine to possess one of these illustrious weapons, which adds a unique twist to his character.

As confirmed by the series’ creator, Eiichiro Oda, Yakuza Kasen is classified as a **shikomizue**, or cane sword. Unlike typical blades, this weapon cleverly conceals itself within the guise of a walking cane, allowing Issho to surprise foes who underestimate his harmless-looking exterior. This design perfectly complements Issho’s blindness while showcasing his formidable power.

What is the History and Powers of the Sword?

A Wano Blade That Can Channel His Devil Fruit

Marine Admiral Fujitora using his Press-Press fruit in One Piece's Dressrosa Arc
  • Yakuza Kasen was crafted by the **Fugetsu Family**.
  • Issho primarily engages in defensive maneuvers rather than offensive attacks with the sword.

Details surrounding the history of Issho’s Yakuza Kasen are somewhat sparse, primarily disclosed through a **Shitsumon o Boshū Suru**, or SBS (a fan Q&A session). Oda revealed that this exceptional sword was forged in **Wano** by the esteemed swordsmith **Fugetsu Kisaburo**, part of a now-destroyed family, victims of **Kaido**’s tyranny after **Orochi** took control. Following its creation, the sword eventually left Wano and ended up in Issho’s capable hands.

What sets Issho apart from other wielders of Supreme Grade Blades is his distinctive approach to using Yakuza Kasen. Rather than wielding it primarily for offense, he employs the sword mainly to defend against attacks and as a conduit for harnessing his **Press-Press Fruit** abilities. This sword acts as an effective medium for directing gravitational forces, allowing him to manipulate gravity with remarkable precision.

What Techniques Can Issho Utilize with the Sword?

He Can Use the Sword to Manipulate Gravity

Fujitora uses his Devil Fruit on Zoro during One Piece's Dressrosa Arc.

Issho employs Yakuza Kasen in a signature move known as **Gravito**, which allows him to manipulate gravitational forces using his sword. This technique grants him the ability to influence the intensity and direction of gravity affecting his adversaries. For instance, he can exert a downward pull that crushes opponents beneath the immense weight of gravity. Additionally, Issho utilizes the **Moko** technique, which channels gravitational energy into his blade, generating a powerful explosion of force around him.

Issho’s philosophy regarding justice is profound: *”If you don’t want Justice to be dishonored, keep it close to you at all times! If we lose credibility just by admitting fault, we didn’t have any in the first place!”* Even though he refrains from using Yakuza Kasen for traditional cutting motions, it remains an ideal weapon for Issho, especially considering his potential trajectory towards becoming a future **Fleet Admiral**. With its status as a legendary blade, Yakuza Kasen significantly enhances Issho’s gravitational powers, contributing to the weight and impact of his attacks. Fans are eagerly anticipating Issho’s return to the storyline of **One Piece**, hoping to witness Yakuza Kasen in action once more.

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