Discover the Hidden Treasures of Japan’s Legendary School of Samurai Swordsmanship

Yabuki Yuji, the 18th Soke of Ono-ha Itto-ryu and Kendo 8th Dan, opens the secret vaults of the Reigakudo, the headquarters of the mainline school of Ono-ha Itto-ryu, and presents heretofore hidden swords, letters, calligraphy, and other treasures passed down from headmaster-to-headmaster within Japan’s most prestigious school of kenjutsu.

This groundbreaking book offers an exclusive glimpse into:

• Authentic Ono-ha Itto-ryu Licenses – see original documents at the core of this school of kenjutsu.

• Unearthed Letters – revelations from kendo icons Takano Sasaburo, Naito Takaharu, Ogawa Kinnosuke, Saimura Goro, and Sasamori Junzo, never before published.

• A Rare Muromachi Period Sword – a newly discovered short sword crafted by the legendary Kaneie swordsmiths.

• Masterpieces by Nigara Kunitoshi – a Living National Treasure and Mukansa swordsmith, whose craftsmanship transcends appraisal.

• The Secrets of Kenjutsu Practice – detailed insights into how these treasured swords are used in actual kenjutsu practice at the Reigakudo.

• Introduction to Shin Muso Hayashizaki-ryu – learn about the influential school that fathered many iaido styles in Japan.

• Itto-ryu Kendo’s Sixty-Six Moves for Certain Victory – techniques that Sasamori Junzo and Takano Sasaburo adapted from Itto-ryu for use in modern kendo.

Including over 50 stunning color photos, this book is a must-have for martial arts enthusiasts, sword collectors, and anyone fascinated by Japan’s rich warrior heritage.

A portion of the proceeds of the sale of this book will go to the Reigakudo Foundation in Japan, an organization committed to preserving Ono-ha Itto-ryu and other martial arts for future generations.

Available 1 April