A bamboo katana, also known as a "shinai katana," is a practice weapon used in certain martial arts and training scenarios, particularly in kendo. It is designed to simulate the shape and feel of a katana sword while offering a safer alternative for training and sparring.

A bamboo katana consists of a bamboo blade constructed from several thin slats of bamboo, held together by leather or string. The bamboo slats are bound together to form a flexible yet durable blade. The striking surface of the bamboo katana is often covered with a protective material, such as a leather or cloth sheath, to enhance safety during practice.

The purpose of the bamboo katana is to provide a more realistic training experience, allowing practitioners to practice strikes, blocks, and techniques similar to those used with a real katana, but with reduced risk of injury. The flexibility of the bamboo blade helps absorb the impact of strikes and reduces the likelihood of serious injury.

Bamboo katanas are commonly used in kendo training and sparring sessions, where practitioners can engage in simulated combat while practicing proper technique, timing, and control.

They are also used in other martial arts or sword-based disciplines where the focus is on safe and realistic training without the risks associated with using a live blade.

It's important to note that a bamboo katana is not a traditional weapon in the historical sense but rather a modern training tool designed for practice and safety.