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Katori Shinto Ryu may not require introduction to many, as it was one of the very first Koryu Bujutsu (Japanese Classical Martial Arts) introduced to the west, by famous Don Draeger. Needless to say, It is the oldest existing martial arts in Japan with over 650 years of recorded history. The style was founded by Iizasa Choisai Ienaoafter 1000 days of intensive training. The style is characterized by paired kata exerecises which involves exchange of multiple moves/techniques between partners. Another notable characteristics of the school is its broad range of technical repertoire, the characteristics often found in Koryu Bujutsu founded in Sengoku-Jidai or pre-Edo period when the martial arts skills were used mostly in battlefield, unlike fairly peaceful early-mid Edo-period when martial arts skills were ment for self defence.The martial arts for battlefield means that one must be able to handle variety of weapons therefore the Katori Shinto Ryu practitioner is required to learn Kenjutsu, Bojutsu, Naginatajutsu, Iaijutsu,Jujutsu ...and more, which takes years of dedicated training. One can also see its battlefield origin as many of the techniques assumes the use of Yoroi (armor) and target areas are often the opening of an armor such as joints.The style's vast technical repertoire has been well preserved by the efforts of generations of dedicated practitioners and style has a strong follolwers inside Japan and abroad. We offer Katori Shinto Ryu long sword and short sword required for Kenjutsu and Kodachi techniques practice. Similar to standard bokken design but a little heavier and less sori (curvature). Length: 97cm ( approx 38"). NOW ISU VERSION AVAILABLE. Isu is the wood preferred by many Kenjutsu practitioner for its beautiful grain and durability. Most notably it is the preferred choice of the Jigen Ryu practitioners who use their bokkens aggressively through famous Tachigi-uchi training.