Tag: shinken

Bringing Sasaki Kojiro’s Sword to Life – Part 2

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

Bringing Sasaki Kojiro’s Sword to Life – Part 1

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

Japanese Sword Maintenance Guide Part 2: How to maintain your sword

How often your perform maintenance depends on what sort of blade you have and what you use it for.  If you have an iaito from Japan that is made from Zinc/Alluminium you do not need to use uchiko powder because it will not rust.  If you use it for iaido then you should oil it as and when is needed.  However if it is for decoration only then once every two months should be fine.

image of drawing the sword

Japanese Sword Maintenance Guide Part 1: How to draw and sheath your Japanese sword

It goes without saying, that Japanese swords are precious cultural treasures, but if it is handled roughly it might be damaged or might cause injury to yourself or someone else. If that happens, the value of such a precious treasure might be lost and we don’t want to embarass our Read More

Tsuka-maki

Japanese Swords: How to tell if a Tsuka is good or bad

From shinken to iaito and decorative wall-hangers, there are numerous types of Japanese swords available for purchase today, however today we will have a look at the only part that you touch on a katana: the tsuka. We will also go over some simple ways to distinguish a good tsuka Read More

Japanese Iaito Buying Guide: how to choose your right Iaito

In this article we are going to take a look at how to go about choosing the right iaito for you.  Beyond the aesthetics and theme of the koshirae, there are many factors like blade type and tsuka length to consider. We go through each step of the process recommending Read More