Norinari (則成) was a smith of the Fukuoka group whose active period is placed around the Kencho era (1249–1256) of the period. The Fukuoka lineage arose in the early period with Norimune as its founding figure, and the smiths of this group active before its mid- zenith are separately referred to as Ko-. Signature compendia also record smiths named Norinari among the Yoshioka and lineages; the Yoshioka Norinari is traditionally placed in the Kenji era and is noted for a more subdued manner, though his precise line of descent is not clearly established. In all cases, the emphasizes that extant signed works by Norinari are "extremely few" and "exceedingly rare," making authenticated examples of high value as documentary material.
The Ko- Norinari's characteristic workmanship shows that is generally tightly forged, with very fine and vivid standing out distinctly. The mixes , , , and on what the consistently describes as a -based composition, with conspicuous appearing especially around the or area. and enter profusely, adheres well, and and appear. The Yoshioka Norinari tends toward a more restrained small- style, sometimes with a banded shima tendency within the , yet still displays the characteristic features of the tradition. forms typically show with or , presenting an elegant silhouette.
The repeatedly observes that Norinari's work, while preserving "an archaic coloration reminiscent of works," incorporates plentiful that lend the hardened edge "a somewhat fresher, newer flavor" — in this point the characteristic features of the Ko- group are said to be "clearly displayed." The blades are noted for abundant and for a condition in which both and are described as "extremely " (sound and well-preserved). The is variously described as tight and deep or gentle and soft, demonstrating what the examiners call "the virtues and characteristic beauty of work." These qualities, combined with the rarity of securely signed examples, place Norinari among the most valued names within the early Fukuoka tradition.