Books, DVDs and videos available here are intended as instructional aides only. In order to ensure proper technique, attitude and safety such material is sufficient only in addition to training with a qualified instructor.

Intended as a resource for current students as well as an introduction for non-students, "Shinkendo - Japanese Swordsmanship" is the first volume of several books scheduled to follow that detail various aspects of this art. A must for Shinkendo students and anyone interested in Japanese swordsmanship, volume one touches on Japanese military history, Shinkendo strategy, philosophy and all five major areas of swordsmanship study. This is the first and only book on the dynamic art of Shinkendo to date, written by it's founder and headmaster. 177 pages.

Shinkendo Tameshigiri focuses exclusively on tameshigiri (test-cutting) — its history, its current practice, the different types and purposes of tameshigiri, including shito or sword-testing — and its role in shinkendo. Obata-Kaiso has been instrumental in implementing and raising the standards of the practice of tameshigiri in swordmanship training worldwide, starting from his participation in the tameshigiri championships in Japan and perhaps culminating in the publication of this definitive volume. Included are detailed diagrams of cutting techniques and sword anatomy, step-by-step photos of maintaining swords, preparing tatami-omote, tameshigiri waza, and more. This book also extends beyond the scope of shinkendo to incorporate Obata-soke's extensive experience as a shitoka, or professional sword-tester. Intended as a resource for students and anyone interested in finding out more about shinkendo and the practice of tameshigiri. 180 pages.
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This book represents the first ever translation (Hungarian) of Obata Kaiso's highly regarded Shinkendo book. The first 100 copies of this new book were signed and numbered personally by Obata Kaiso and are now available for purchase by collectors. Three of Obata Kaiso's earlier books are now out of print and appear only rarely at premium prices through online auctions. This is your chance to secure a signed and numbered copy of these new foreign language translation. 184 pages.

Master Toshishiro Obata instructs and demonstrates the techniques of Aikijutsu, a dynamic combat method developed by generations of Samurai for close quarters fighting. Also demonstrated is Tameshigiri test cutting with a live blade. Thru this unique 60 minute video, witness and learn the samurai combat method that is without equal.

Renowned martial artist Obata Toshishiro SoShihan, uchi-deshi (live in disciple) under the late Shioda Gozo Kancho, relocated from Japan to America in 1980 and began development of a research organization, called the "Aikibujutsu Tanren Kenkyukai" or abbreviated as Aiki-Buken. While Mr. Obata was "uchi-deshi" in Japan, he also taught at the Yoshinkan honbu, universities, the Metropolitan Riot Police and the Japanese self-defense Army. Obata Sensei created the Aiki-Buken to accurately rebuild concepts and techniques from the older styles of Aikibujutsu and Edo Torimonojutsu used during the feudal times of Japan. This is an ongoing process including the softer styles of modern aikido.

Obata Kaiso believes that a through understanding and mastery of Ashisabaki (footwork) is the foundation upon which all martial arts are built. Obata Kaiso demonstrates many of the essential and practical footwork patters for Shinkendo kihon waza (basic technique), tachiuchi (sparring), and Aikido. Additional patterns in Suriashi (shuffling) and Sashiashi (stepping) format are: Kagigata, Jujigata, Masugata, Tatebishi, Yokobishi and Sotobishi. Grid outlines accompany many patters to assist the student. Performing these patters with a partner is an additional aid to mastering them. Yoko Obata assists Obata Kaiso in demonstrating in sotai (partner) format. A bonus tameshigiri performance by Obata Kaiso is also included that showcases dynamic and diverse cutting techniques, as well as tameshigiri utilizing nitoken (two-sword method).

Obata Toshishiro Sensei demonstrates the basics required for correct bojutsu practice. Learning the Rokushakubo (six foot staff) is the foundation for learning all pole weapons such as the Jo (three foot staff) Naginata (halberd) and Yari (spear). In addition to offering insight into traditional weapons practice, students will also enjoy learning the content of this DVD and seeing a great master in action. Content: Basic Kamae, Three sets of familiarization drills devoted to: Switching grips (mochikae), basic striking, spinning (mawashi). Basic bojutsu kumite (sparring drills are also demonstrated: Attacking (Kogeki), Defending (Bogyo), together as a partner exercise (Ippon and Jugo Renzoku Kumite). Three kata are also included: shuji no sho, Sakugawa and Sueyoshi.

This video outlines techniques from Toyama ryu Battodo, Nakamura ryu Battodo and various other Battodo kata. Contents includes: cutting demonstrations with Wakizashi, Katana and Nitoken (two swords); history, proper grip, goho no kamae, kihon giri, happo giri, Toyama ryu kata, ichimonji suburi, goho battoho (kihon and jokyu), shoden no kata, nidan no kata (chuden sei), tameshigiri and sword cleaning. Please be advised that the original production of this video incorrectly labeled all the forms as being Toyama ryu curriculum - which in actual fact only applies to the Toyama ryu kata. This video was designed to follow up the books Naked Blade and Crimson Steel.

A re-publication of the important film "The Ritual of the Sword," this video details the creation of a Japanese sword as forged by a Living National Treasure, Master Swordsmith Shohei Miyairi. Also features swordsmanship demonstrations by Obata Kaiso and his son, Obata Yukishiro-sensei, shot at various seminars. Black & white, Japanese w/ English voiceover.