Japanese sword fighting is commonly referred to as "Kenjutsu." The term "Kenjutsu" translates to "the technique or art of the sword" and encompasses the various traditional Japanese martial arts focused on swordsmanship.

Kenjutsu involves the study and practice of sword techniques, strategies, and principles, emphasizing proper form, footwork, timing, and distance. It encompasses both armed combat and self-defense techniques using various Japanese swords, including the iconic katana, as well as other weapons such as wakizashi (short sword) and tanto (knife).

Kenjutsu training typically includes partner drills, sparring, and the study of kata (pre-arranged sequences of movements) that simulate combat scenarios. It also emphasizes mental focus, discipline, and the cultivation of a warrior's mindset.

Over time, different schools or styles of Kenjutsu have developed, each with its own specific techniques, philosophies, and training methods. Some popular Kenjutsu styles include Katori Shinto-ryu, Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu, and Niten Ichi-ryu, among others.

It's worth noting that the term "Kenjutsu" can sometimes be used interchangeably with "Kendo." However, Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art derived from Kenjutsu and focuses on the sportive and competitive aspects of swordsmanship, using protective armor (bogu) and bamboo swords (shinai). Kenjutsu, on the other hand, typically refers to the traditional and more comprehensive study of sword techniques for practical and martial purposes.