Kensei

In ancient Japan, a kensei (剣聖, master swordsman?) was an honorary title given to a warrior of legendary skill in swordsmanship. The literal translation of "kensei" is "sword saint". Thus, the term is considered by some to imply a higher degree of perfection (possibly also encompassing a moral dimension) than the more commonly used kengō (剣豪?) or "great swordsman", "master fencer". This is not to be confused with the word kenshi (剣士), meaning "swordsman", "fencer".

Among swordsmen widely regarded as kensei, the most famous one is Miyamoto Musashi (宮本武蔵?). Other historical kensei are often the founders of popular schools of swordsmanship. Although there is no such written rule, the title carries such prestige that it is commonly understood that there should be no more than one kensei at any given time.