Bokken from Japan

Discover a large selection from Japan in our online shop

In Japan, the types of wood offered here have proven their worth in the extensive Budo culture and have become part of Japanese tradition.

We are keen to offer you this high and proven quality, naturally manufactured in Japan.

In addition to the classic Katana-length models, we also offer Shoto-length models. Be sure to take a look at our Accessories like stitched leather tsuba and saya!

What does the name mean?

=Bokken, also known as bokuto, is a traditional Japanese training tool used in various martial arts, particularly kendo, kenjutsu and aikido.

The word is made up of the terms boku (=wood) and ken (=sword). The term bokuto means the same thing, except that a different character is used for sword.

The story behind the samurai wooden sword

Wooden training swords have a long history dating back to ancient Japan. Originally, they were made from solid branches and served as a replacement for real swords during training to avoid injuries.

The shape and construction of these wooden swords reflect the classic Japanese sword shape and have been refined over time to improve the effectiveness of the training.

Some fighting styles have developed their own design for the wooden swords, which differs slightly from the other designs.

We offer bokken in the so-called Itto-Ryu form. This means a training sword with an elaborate tip and a stepped handle in front of which a thrusting blade (tsuba) can be mounted with the help of a rubber.

The use of the bokken

It is used in a variety of martial arts to practise different techniques, including punching, blocking and cutting techniques.

In kendo, a modern Japanese sword fighting art, the bokken is used to train the use of the katana. In kenjutsu, a traditional Japanese sword fighting art, complex fighting techniques are practised with the bokken.

In Aikido, a modern Japanese martial art that focuses on the principles of harmony and utilising the opponent's energy, the bokken is also used to train various movement sequences.

But despite its function as a training sword, the bokuto is also a real weapon in its own right in the right hands.

The most famous warrior in Japanese history, Miyamoto Musashi, was known to fight duels with a wooden sword.

In one of his most famous duels in the 17th century against the equally famous samurai Sasaki Kojiro, he is said to have competed with a wooden sword that he carved himself from an oar.

The production

The production of such swords requires a high degree of craftsmanship and experience. Traditionally, bokken are made by hand from selected woods such as white oak or red oak.

The block of wood is first carved into the shape of a sword and then carefully sanded and polished to obtain a smooth surface.

Finally, the bokken is given a special protective coating to protect it from moisture and wear and tear.

Why we only offer bokken from Japan

We trust in the craftsmanship from Japan.

Firstly, the quality of wood in other countries has fallen dramatically in recent years.

On the other hand, cheap swords from other countries are often of inferior workmanship, such as unclean transitions between the handle and the rest of the sword.

We don't want either in our shop.

That's why we only sell bokken from Japan!

The importance of the bokken

It is more than just a training tool; it also symbolises the spiritual and philosophical aspects of Japanese martial arts.

By training with the bokken, students develop discipline, concentration and respect.

The bokken also teaches the use of weapons and the importance of mindfulness and self-control.

Respect for the training device as a sword

The wooden sword replaces a real sword during training. This means that it should be treated with the same respect.

Conclusion

Wooden training swords are an important part of Japanese martial arts and have a rich history and significance.

By training with the wooden sword, students not only develop their fighting skills, but also their personality and mental discipline.

Whether in kendo, kenjutsu or aikido, the bokken remains an important part of training and the tradition of Japanese martial arts.