Samurai traditionally carried their katana in a specific manner known as "tachi-koshirae" or "katana-koshirae." The method of carrying the katana involved a combination of a belt and various accessories. Here are the main components and steps involved:

1. Obi (Belt): The samurai wore a wide belt called an "obi" around their waist. The obi served as the foundation for carrying the katana.
2. Saya (Scabbard): The katana was inserted into a saya, which is the wooden scabbard that protects the blade. The saya typically had a suspension loop or ring attached to it.
3. Sageo (Cord): The sageo is a long cord that was tied around the saya to secure it to the samurai's obi. The sageo was wrapped around the obi multiple times and then tied in a specific knot.
4. Tachi-dome (Sword Stopper): A tachi-dome, a metal or decorative piece, was attached to the sageo near the knot. It acted as a stopper to prevent the saya from sliding off the obi.
5. Kurikata and Koiguchi: The saya had a small knob-like attachment called a kurikata and a mouthpiece called a koiguchi. These components allowed the samurai to secure the saya to the obi with the sageo and adjust its position.
6. Katana Placement: Once the sageo was securely wrapped around the obi and tied, the samurai would slide the saya with the katana into the obi on their left side, with the cutting edge facing upwards. The exact positioning could vary based on personal preference or school of swordsmanship.
7. Kashira (Pommel): The kashira, the metal cap or pommel of the handle, would rest on or near the samurai's hip when the katana was sheathed.

This method of carrying the katana allowed the samurai to draw their sword quickly and smoothly when needed. The placement on the left side facilitated right-handed drawing and provided easy access during combat situations.

It's important to note that there were variations in how different samurai clans or individuals wore their katana. Some samurai may have also used additional accessories, such as a sword belt or a tachi-kake (sword rack), for ceremonial or specific purposes.

In summary, samurai traditionally carried their katana by securing the saya to their obi with the sageo, allowing the sword to be easily drawn from the left side. The exact method and positioning could vary, but this general method of katana carry was prevalent among samurai warriors.