Also known as: 斩魄刀, 斬魄刀
Zanpakutou are what the Weapons used in Bleach are called. They are transformable close quarters weapons (typically a Sword) which are used to send the spirits of the deceased to Soul Society, as well as purify Hollow (Bleach)s. They also have their own sentient spirits, which can manifest in the real world under certain conditions.
There are two upgraded forms to a Zanpakutou, Shikai and Bankai. Both of them have their own designs and oftentimes different powers.