We continue our previous article concerning Sasaki Kojiro’s infamous long sword the Monohoshizao and how it was brought to life for the silver screen in Mikami Yasuo’s ‘Musashi’. Previously our chairman Kimura Takahiko and famous jidaigeki actor Matsudaira Ken discussed the character of Sasaki and what it was like portraying Read More
A brand new style of shinai handle on the horizon! Inspired by the katana, that the shinai originally represents, it features an asymmetric design that gives you great awareness of the position of your shinai as well providing an extremely comfortable foundation for your kamae (posture). As part of the Read More
In the recent Movie “Musashi” by Mikami Yasuo, the famous jidaigeki actor Ken Matsudaira plays Sasaki Kojiro – Musashi’s infamous final nemesis. In this article Takahiko Kimura, Tozando’s chairman, discusses with Matsudaira about his role and the development of his signature weapon – the “Monohoshizao” (known affectionately as the laundry Read More
In this article – Stefania, one of the member’s of our International Team who is only just starting Iaido, shares her perceptions of Japanese martial arts and what has impressed her so far. Budo (Japanese martial arts) and spirituality. That’s a topic that has been in my mind for a Read More
In this week’s spotlight, we are taking a look at (and through) a brand new mengane. In particular, our brand-new High Vision Mengane which we recently developed. For those that don’t know, the mengane is the metal grill that protects the front of your face in a kendo men. Not Read More
I wished for this koshirae to be based on the original style of higo koshirae as well as informed by the records of Taisha-ryu.
Amongst kendo equipment, one of the most distinctive parts is the do (胴). This protects your chest and stomach and is made from two main components: the curved plate that covers the stomach called the dodai (胴台), and the piece that covers the chest called the mune (胸). In this Read More
Kendo makes use of a lot of different skills both physical and mental. A well planned keiko session will help you improve in all areas, but cross-training can be extremely beneficial not only to those who have limited opportunities to train, but also to those practitioners with specific requirements. In Read More
This year’s 8-dan Invitational was billed to be an eventful affair and it did not dissapoint. This time, six new challengers took their first steps on to the stage to try for the title. Alongside these, were noted kendoka who had fought for Japan at the World Championships such as Read More
This article is a translation of an essay by Tachibana Tatsunari-san, he works for Tozando and practices Yoshinkan Aikido and is currently 5-dan. In his essay he explores “kamae” – posture or stance – in training and why it is emphasised so strongly in Yoshinkan Aikido. In Yoshinkan Aikido, as Read More
