Bokutō (木刀), also known as bokken (木剣, bok(u), "wood", and ken, "sword") are the wooden swords used for kata. Bokutō are usually the size and shape of a katana, but is sometimes shaped like other swords, such as the wakizashi and tantō. Some ornamental bokken are decorated with mother-of-pearl work and elaborate carvings.
Bokutō are used for kata practice and should not be confused with shinai, practice swords made of flexible bamboo.