Itto Ryu is known as one of the major school of Kenjutsu and it had significant influence over the development of modern Kendo. The style's techniques are straight to the point, which is well represented by the famous "Kiriotoshi" technique in which one deflects the opponent's sword by striking it with a slight angle, moving almost straight in to deliver a counter strike in the minimum distance and time possible. The technique is ultimate in simplicity, precision and effectiveness. It is the level of technical mastery many swordsmen desire to achieve. The style is also known for its use of unique "Onigote", a thick and heavy wrist /forearm protector to allow contact practice with bokken.The style is said to be originaly founded by "
Ito Ittosai" ,one of the Kenjutsu legend who lived an mysterious life and only a little facts about him is known (beside being a great swordsman). It was succeeded by
Ono Jiro Uemon Tadaaki and it is commonly called
Ono-ha Itto Ryu since. Effectiveness of the Itto Ryu techniques made Tokugawa shogunate to select the style as an official style and the style became known as one of the only two Tokugawa official styles, other being
Yagyu Shinkage Ryu.Ono-ha Ittoryu is considered as a direct descendent and successor of Ittosai's Ittoryu (note that some historians suggest that the name "Ittoryu" became in use after Ittosai's death) and it is currently headed by
Takemi Sasamori, the 17th headmaster.There are a few
Ono-ha Itto Ryu based styles such as
Hokushin Ittoryu,
Mizoguchi-ha Ittoryu,
Kogen Ittoryu and I
tto Seiden Muto Ryu, each with unique characteristics. It should also be noted that
Takeda Sokaku, the founder of
Daitoryu Aikijujutsu and the teacher of Aikido founder
Ueshiba Morihei, was an Itto Ryu swordsman. Influence of Itto Ryu Kenjutsu techniques can easily be seen on Daito-Ryu or Aikido techniques. Itto Ryu Bokken features less sori compared to the standrd bokken or Yagyu Shinkage Ryu bokken and its handle/blade is beefier,making it suitable for suburi as well as paired contact Kenjutsu Kata training. We offer both long and short sword ,in white oak,urethane coated.
Length: Long=98cm ( approx 38.6"), Short=51.5cm ( approx 20"), Weight: Long=680grams ( approx 24oz), Short=300grams ( approx 10.6oz).
Variety of wood selection and finish available upon request.
