The Applications of Japanese Samurai Sword:

1. Test Cutting (Tameshigiri): This practice is done by martial arts practitioners to test both the sword's quality and the swordsman's technique. Typically, targets include rolled and soaked straw mats or bamboo.

2. Art Collection: Many people collect samurai swords as a form of art due to their aesthetic value. Antique swords, especially those made by renowned swordsmiths, are particularly prized.

3. Home Décor: A samurai sword can be used as a decorative item, often displayed on a specially designed stand. This use combines appreciation for the sword's aesthetic and historical value.

4. Cosplay and Festivals: Samurai swords are often part of the costume in cosplaying, especially for characters in anime, manga, or samurai films. They're also used in festivals, often in dance performances or parades.

5. Self Defense: While not as common in the modern era, and heavily dependent on local laws, some people still keep samurai swords for self-defense purposes.

Uses of Japanese Samurai Sword:

1. Martial Arts: The katana is closely associated with the samurai warrior class and was primarily used as a weapon in martial arts. In ancient times, samurai warriors trained extensively in various sword-fighting techniques, known as kenjutsu or kendo, using the katana. These martial arts focused on mastering the sword's techniques, such as strikes, parries, and defensive maneuvers.

2. Decorative Display: Due to their aesthetic appeal and historical value, Japanese samurai swords are often displayed as decorative pieces in homes, offices, and martial arts dojos. Display stands, known as katanakake, are specifically designed to showcase these swords in an elegant and respectful manner.

3. Self-defense: The katana served as a means of self-defense for samurai warriors and civilians alike. In times of peace or when outside the battlefield, carrying a sword symbolized one's social status and served as a deterrent against potential attackers. Samurai were expected to be skilled in swordsmanship and ready to defend themselves or their honor at any moment.