How to Order Your Ideal CUSTOM KATANA | And This is What Mine Looks Like

[@LetsaskShogo]

▼Where you can make your ideal custom katana (iaitō): Tozando▼ tozandoshop.com/letsaskshogo Everything I use for my katana training is bought at this shop! I still use the first training katana I bought in 2016, and it is still in good shape! ●Check out the "Let's ask Shogo Custom Katana" tozandoshop.com/products/lets-ask-shogo-iaito?variant=40129466466437 *The content is based on personal studies and experience There is no intention of denying other theories and cultural aspects ▼My New Channel: Let’s ask Seki Sensei | Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu▼ www.youtube.com/@letsasksekisensei Are you a Japanese budo martial art lover watching this video? I am now running the best channel for you to learn more about samurai, katana, and budo martial arts from a Kobudo master who is running a 400-year-old Ryuha. Our goal is to achieve 100,000 subscribers by 2023, so please check it out! ▼Interested in learning Iai/Kenjutsu skills online?▼ patreon.com/lets_ask_sekisensei?Link& Interested in taking lessons directly from the 22nd headmaster of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu, Seki sensei? Sign up to learn authentic samurai skills with 400 years of history, with perfect English interpretation from Let’s ask Shogo. Every lesson will be recorded and will be available to rewatch anytime. (Learn more about the online lessons: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHO7op2Ol8eepK8) ▼Please support me through Ko-fi (a donation platform like Patreon)▼ ko-fi.com/letsaskshogo The management (filming, editing, etc.) of the new Asayama Ichiden Ryu's English Channel "Let's ask Seki Sensei" is completely my voluntary work. If I am not able to pay for the expensive bullet train fare from Kyoto to Ibaraki Prefecture (where the main Dojo is located), and hotel/filming expenses, this activity will cease. Please help us spread and preserve this 400-year-old martial art. In return, I will try my best to create the most educational and exciting content about Japanese Kobudo. ▼The recommended online katana shop for decorations and cosplay: Mini Katana▼ minikatana.com/SHOGO *Get 15% OFF off all their products by purchasing through my affiliate link ▼Where you can meet me in Kyoto, Japan | Yushinkan Samurai Experience with Modern-day Musashi▼ A 90-minute experience in Japan where beginners can learn how to wield, draw, sheath, and swing the katana from the modern-day Musashi! I, Shogo, will be your interpreter to lead you into the wonderful world of samurai martial arts! Make your reservation here: www.airbnb.com/experiences/4577764?locale=en A video of me visiting this experience: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6KldHR5aZetd68 ▼Let's ask Shogo Merchandise Shop▼ Where you can buy t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, stickers, etc. of cute Ukiyoe animal characters and logos of Let’s ask Shogo: suzuri.jp/lets_ask_shogo ▼Who is Shogo? What is this channel about?▼ kzbin.infokZbyd0OfdC4 ▼MY DREAM▼ kzbin.infoWFF3AhN0LXE “To make every Japan lovers’ dream come true, by making Japan a more secure, comfortable, and safer place for everyone to visit, study, and live in” ▼Join our Membership▼ kzbin.info/door/n7DCb9ttrcw9h3vh9dfnVwjoin The ticket to the front row seats to Shogo's rapid adventure to make his dream come true! Through the limited videos and live streams, your ideas and opinions will be adopted for Shogo to make the right decisions for his challenges! ▼Sub-channel: “Shogo’s Podcast”▼ kzbin.info/door/ZAe1VayWxp5NLO4Net78DA ▼Instagram▼ instagram.com/lets_ask_shogo/ *Please ask me questions through the DM here!（⚠I do not use e-mail）

[@anime-mun]

I still would like to see your approach to a custom lightsaber and how you would handle it. If only to see how you would design the hilt. There are plenty of sabersmiths that you could purchase from and even the lighted blade has multiple options all the way from the standard long shaft all the way to resembling an Iaito, so I'm sure you could figure out something you would like and it probably wouldn't have the same restrictions for you as ordering a katana would. For one it would be much cheaper even with full electronics and I think it could give an interesting way of showing where a strike would be in a kata. This is because there are options with the buttons to have it simulate a "blaster bolt block" which would make the blade flash. Though the flashing could also occur when clashing with another blade. You can even customize the sound font with it so if you wanted something more eclectic with the sounds it can be done. Not to mention most sabers now a days allow you to customize the blade color on the fly so if you get bored of one color you can shift it to a completely different one. I've even seen some sites carry their interpretation of a Gundam's beam saber.

[@leisiyox]

Anyone knows whats the name of the draw art with the animals in the background?

[@dxfan18]

Hi, Shogo. I have a question. Why do torii gates sometime appear in long rows like the Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine?

[@starfane7901]

Wow! My son also loved this. The history behind the Katana is amazing. I'm glad that art did not die away.

[@yadimirdejesusalvareznunez]

Okey

[@ChibiChidorii]

I don't think I've ever seen Shogo this excited 😂 he looks like a kid

[@Fuzz82]

Like opening a Christmas present. And we all love it. We all want to see Shogo happy.

[@killerzovv]

I had same thoughts watching him unwrapping a iaito. "Excited like a kid, and that's why we love him :) "

[@wilsonclark3072]

Who wouldn't be excited for a full red katana?

[@jakubkuczynski683]

@@Fuzz82 It is even better. I am doing HEMA and when I got my custom feather, I allmost pissed myself.

[@Ambreil]

Anyone who is surprised by this reaction I hold a deep empathy for because clearly they do not own a sword.

[@outboundflight4455]

Everyone if you are practicing a Japanese sword style, before you order the katana refer to your sensei as to what length or shape the blade should be that aligns with your style be it a koryu (Oldschool) or gendai budo(Modern) style.

[@earthtoastro8349]

Or if you're self taught, measure the tool you use most as a reference point for your blade length. That way if you've used a replica, an Iaito, or a wooden Bokken for a couple of months, you can use a sword that has a comfortable blade length for you. ( I reccomend u measure blade length and the full tang as well as a lot of shops usually have both) I'm from a mountainside where money is hard to come by and I made my first swords from hardy cedar an pine woods. As you progress though the weight of a Bokken becomes unrealistic, and you'll need something that matches the weight of a real katana (around 2.5-2.6lbs) but that also is a big change if your body isn't prepared, forces you to do slow movements on unprepared muscles an joints. I reccomend if you're starting with unrealistic weight, only train that way for two to three months maybe, or when your body can't hold the sword from intense practice but you'd like to continue.

[@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469]

That's true, and thankfully Shogo revealed to us something that's a life saver! Also 69th like btw.

[@charliebowen5071]

No.. the sword itself is completely subjective for the individual… shapes are general..

[@trevorrose9923]

Gombe

[@Carpe_diemMMVII]

Interesante

[@kygent508]

My mind says yes but my pocket says no.

[@stonefox9124]

❤: 😍 Wallet: 😰

[@TheSteam02]

The sheer giddiness of opening a new sword is an emotion to be remembered.

[@lax9586]

It's very satisfying listening to Shogo talk about samurai swords with his context. He is most def one of my favorite cultural KZbinrs.

[@austindecaux7895]

He's the beeeest!! (Imho 😂)

[@astranix0198]

0:12 That pixelization, it brings back memories, very recent memories.

[@warrikata]

Thank you so much for being so helpful, Shogo. This isn't much but a small token of appreciation for the patience and kindness you've shown for your curious viewers!

[@monicab204]

Thank you for the great explanation on ordering the custom Iaito. All I can say about your Katana set is Absolutely Gorgeous!! ❤

[@aldenvar]

I wanted a Katana, so on my trip to Japan, a week ago I went to Tozando Shogoin Store to look for one ... when I get out of the store, I cried ! :')

[@Zanryuuga]

Out of excitement or sadness? Were you happy or disappointed?

[@aldenvar]

@@Zanryuuga obviously of sadness… 🥲

[@dalcomaroni9837]

@@aldenvar why?

[@Erduk]

It is probably quite expensive.

[@dalcomaroni9837]

@@Erduk right

[@MadmanJnr]

Shogo you definitely have to be happy with those new Katana. As soon as you showed the Carp I immediately thought of the dragon, so it was great to see you got it too! 🔥🔥🔥

[@Vibesmen]

Thank you for the content you make Shogo, I was born in Okinawa and stayed there for 2-3 years shortly after moving since at the time my Mom was in the air force, meaning we move every few years, I have a very vague memory of going past a very tall red Torii gate, I remember my parents telling me we must walk on one side of the gate, and that the other side is for spirits, something like that. Your videos remind me of my time in Okinawa and I wish I could go back some time and do the things I used to do but as I just said I only have one memory of my time there, when I think about it Japan feels like its some far away place with unique culture but I remember I was there at some point in time.

[@madeleineg2049]

Thank you for the video. A matching pair, how cool! When you unpacked the swords, I was reminded of the time Zen and Harumi came home and you held Zen. You looked just so incredibly happy. 😂 That you corrected yourself to "not make the other swords envious" didn't help with the image either. Have fun

[@_creighton]

Shogo... I so resonate and appreciate your passion and connection to your art and its positive influence on the quality of your life is evident in your sharing, your joy and your vitality. Much respect! (deep bow)

[@DaveN80]

I was just at their location in Kyoto last year. The staff were so polite and helpful. I bought a cleaning kit and had a great experience there.

[@strydyrhellzrydyr1345]

I wish companies outside of Japan... Had this many.. precise options... I love it

[@liquidchaos66]

I currently have a Seido semi-custom iaito that I use to practice Muso-Shinden Ryu Iaido at a local dojo. I am absolutely in love with it! I plan on ordering another Iaito through Tozando when I reach my 5 year anniversary with my dojo. 😊

[@gordwrath6811]

Lucky. I don't have anyone in 1000 miles who can teach me any kendo. I am self taught. And I would lose to any person who actually knows sword arts.

[@martiuscastle]

I'll be sharing this a lot! Thanks for the amazing content!

[@taobarb1]

Fantastic! I love Tozando and only order the custom iaito from them. They’re really reliable. I hope it’s ok to recommend your video for some of my students. Regarding tsuka shape, I typically recommend ryugo hourglass shape to assist a beginner in positioning hands retaining the tsuka securely, especially those with smaller hands. I personally like a reverse positioning of menuki. This positioning assists indexing the hands in reverse draw, such as in Yagyu draws. I never order saya without koiguchi and I love the silk for wraps and sageo. The latter do wear better. So much fun! I spend more time choosing all of the furnishings, fittings and so forth than I ever spent on buying a car. I guess that says a lot about priorities!! Your Uchi katana and wakizashi are amazing. I hope you love drawing and training with them!! Congratulations!! (Nice sayabiki with your Uchi katana, by the way!! Your ni to practice will be wonderful!) Thank you for this!!

[@MrBlueyes95]

I was wondering where you are? I’m really wanting to order I’m from the US I just wanted to know if you’ve had experience ordering from them and shipping to the us?

[@samiamazigh8338]

Hi, I live in Belgium, have you got any problème with ordering thèse katanas? Does our countries let katanas enter the country?

[@death___viper8520]

21:48 that sound hits hard

[@SkyFrameCreations-p2k]

Hi Shogo, I really like your videos and i am a happy subscriber since more than a year. I would love to see you taking a lesson in kendo! i am practicing kendo myself and i am sure it would be a great experience for you! Thank you for the great videos and have a nice day!

[@noneyabidness9644]

I've owned one. They're quiet nice. Another option is to make one, yourself. My last katana (current, technically as it is almost finished.), cost about $300 USD in materials, and a couple of hundred hours in labor. (It isn't as nice as a Nihonto, but it is what I wanted, and it is more cost effective.)

[@Real_LiamOBryan]

Lovely katana. I'm so happy seeing how pleased you are with your custom katana.

[@therobmower28]

You looked so happy during the video. Made it a joy to watch

[@CattyMrowl]

This is a super neat video, thank you for explaining all the parts of the Katana! It was fun to watch you unbox your custom Iaito and made me wonder what kind of story I want my sword to tell c:

[@liquidchaos66]

Your choice of red is absolutely stunning! Absolutely beautiful!

[@knucklepuppy824]

I've only had one iaito, the Paul Chen "Nami" 13 years ago. I've since lost many pieces in my collection, and only one I've owned had higher levels of customization. Tozando has more still! And it's quite fashionable to purchase these pieces from an authentic, cultural creator. Definitely enough to gain my business 🤔🤔

[@londontheriault5138]

Man, seeing you this happy can could make everyone smile.

[@Samurai_Jade]

Your excitement is infectious 🥰

[@TowhomdoIoweexcess]

I adore the design that was chosen- red is the best color in general, this is a guarantee, but the blade profile you chose along with the carp hand guard, and dragon transformation- wonderful addition: one of the most gorgeous blades I’ve seen- it’s not a heretic but it’s something to drool over

[@matthunter9562]

Like your new Katana from Tozando; its absolutely amazing 👍🏻👍🏻

[@lostinaustin_]

Thank you so much for this! I’ve been wanting to order a custom katana for years but it’s hard just choosing a company at random. I appreciate this comes with your recommendation. Any chance you could do a video on how to maintain katana?

[@Fearz792]

He likely already has but if not there’s plenty of content out there

[@streetguru9350]

Romance of Men currently has a special for $200 custom Katanas, as reviewed on Shadiversity they're solid as long as you don't bang them into metal pipes.

[@MarcusH.Valentine]

I swear it, the smile on your face has the power to bring light even to this grey Monday

[@crigysnake5959]

When I look at your custom katana it it gives me feelings of nostalgia like warm memories that will never return. They are beautiful pieces and deserving respect congratulations on your katanas!

[@ElijahBradley08]

I can tell just how much thought and time went into customizing your katana and wakizashi, they look amazing!

[@howiedewin9707]

Wow, you did a really great job putting this video together, the site demonstration, the unboxing and then you practicing with them! Your katana came out beautifully as well. Nice work, I enjoyed your video a lot. :)

[@Navoii.]

I may not be Japanese, nor am I *that* into Japanese culture, but I love katanas and such. There are still many parts of Japan I love. JDM style, the history, the games etc.

[@Spooky-mv1cg]

I’m digging the vibes of the blade choices. Love that you chose to represent your hometown. Thinking of doing the same!

[@hicamajig]

Came to your channel today to request this and you had already posted it. You are way ahead of me!!

[@robindujardin9508]

I hope you the best with this new fantastic Daishō🎉🎉🎉 Greetings from France !!!!!

[@karayi7239]

such a wholesome guy. Wish you nothing but the best.

[@albro8853]

Very nice ! Really digging your custom daisho, you have great taste! Shogo, I was wondering if you could ask Seki in a next Q&A what would be the advantage of the standard versus, straight or hour glass tsuka. I would be really curious to know his take on that !

[@thatoneundead9771]

I have only one question. If a traditional swordsmith in Japan, used all the traditional forging methods, but instead of making a Katana blade made a Euro longsword using Tamahagane steel, rayskin and other such things, even introducing a guard mixing the two traditions, would it be considered a legal sword, since it follows all traditional methods, but the shape and functionality differs(as it is a longsword in form)?

[@tomix7749]

Your videos are always amazing

[@nelsonalvarez9054]

Shogo-san a video explaining the hamon types and culture behind could be quite cool, cheers from México

[@lennypedersen]

I love the look on your face when you unwrap them! 😄 Like a kid in a toy store!! I know the feeling from when I got my latest katana as well. 😆 There’s nothing like it!!

[@od1452]

I like ordering from Tozando. They are polite and keep you informed on the progress of your order and supply tracking. I recommend them to anyone interested in Martial Arts and Japanese Culture. . I do wish they would improve their catalog detail photos for their swords. The photos are too small for the Sayas as an example. The finish has no description and since the photos are small one has trouble figuring out what the finish looks like. The different finishes cost more so it stands to reason they would want their customers to understand what they are ordering. I tried using a Translation dictionary, but that doesn't help much. The same is true of their Hamon and Tsuka photos. That aside , they are a wonderful firm to deal with.

[@joshgladfelter9597]

Watching you see them for the first time is so sweet!!!🎉

[@DarkLawify]

All of my custom Iaito have been made by Tozando. I don't think I could go back to other stores anymore. It's nice to see you so happy Shogo. Great video!

[@xCARBOMBx]

I love your channel so much! Keep up the great work

[@KateJohn2013England]

Beautiful Katana and Wakizashi Shogo 👍 Nice one, thanks for sharing and the information 👍🙏 Take care. Stay safe 🙏 John and Kate

[@ZacharieWilliamson]

I unliked this video, so, I could like it again! Subscribed immediately. I love this guy's attitude.

[@aristontrusty]

Congrats!! Glad they came in!

[@WSJenken]

Congratulations on acquiring your new swords. All the best from Canada :)

[@j.d.4697]

Happy for you, the red and silver really pops.

[@Jetblaaque_collective]

Congratulations on your beautiful Daisho. Im in the process of making mine, just waiting on the wakizashi blade!

[@peterjanjanin9883]

I have a custom Iaito from Tozando, and it's very high quality! Unfortunately, I'm not able to train Iai anymore 😢 I'm probably going to sell it. I paid about $800 CDN for it

[@alexanderportolov]

@LetsaskShogo Where on the site can you design the wakizashi? I only see the longer blade options.

[@JrMedieval]

This was so helpful cause a few things i didnt know what to cluck on making my costumes iaito

[@lucasfv1357]

Well, I know now a site to use for reference when designing katana for stories. I had never thought about designs for the fuchi, kashira, kojiri and menuki but from now on I will! Beautiful details that could combine to tell a lot about the blade and its owner

[@dominiclapinta8537]

I bought a dark red shirasaya three years ago. I like the idea of it and I wanted something that looked like one piece, until you draw the blade. I found out that the handle(I don't know the Japanese term for it), was actually double layered. Meaning that there is an inner layer of wood, and there is an outer layer that coats it so that it counters against cracking. Basically, this is a shirasaya door serious using. I consider this a custom katana. So, even if one layer in the handle does crack, there is a second layer that doesn't.

[@pauldwalker]

i suspect i’ll never have the need to order a custom katana, but i sure enjoyed the experience of our host enjoying his.

[@BlackenBrewTavern]

I do XMA (Extreme Martial Arts) so the lightest blade and deep grove works best for me. All of mine are blunted but these are the best for what I do. I would recommend 100% if you are looking for a tricking/flare katana. I can't tell you how many people commit about it before and after I get into the ring. Beautiful work.

[@MyNamesHunter75]

I don't have any intention on buying a katana but this is so fascinating

[@808souljahxl5]

I LOOOOOOVE the earthy color combination of your kimono.

[@LetsaskShogo]

Thank youuu!!

[@outsideiskrrtinsideihurt699]

@@LetsaskShogo hey Shogo, what length did you choose for the tsuka? I’m planning on ordering mine and I just wanted to know for reference. Thank you

[@silorion9967]

Those are utterly GORGEOUS! And the length and weight, I fully approve, I always preferred the longer and heavier swords.

[@julienschnell1730]

Love to See how happy you are with them

[@Dethrey_]

Congrats on the new Iaito

[@jummi4936]

Really interesting video! Got to learn a lot about katana.

[@wolfganghaiden5817]

I am so happy for you Shogo. Really amazing swords

[@fabianchapa6344]

Love seeing this guy be happy

[@Dark_Lord_Mr_B]

I think it's cool though since I have more experience after getting my first one I'd rather try one out over a custom one in this manner. I like the carp motif though I'd pick that because I believe the sword should tell a story or relate to your beliefs somewhat. To me, a carp is flexible which is how a swordsman should also be. Love the length, wish I could give it a hold to see how it handles.

[@SimFlightExplore]

wow, very nice katana!! I love the pink sageo. what about the saying "you do not look for a katana, the katana finds you"? from a previous video about custom katana

[@urbanadventurer5]

Very informative and fun to watch. Thanks! 👍🏾

[@blacksnapper7684]

Done this 4 times and it never gets old 😂😂😂😂

[@MDCreload]

Ilike the hour glass handle. Bpoint being because of more grip. I can wrap my hands around the handle deeper. I have more control. And helps with precision cutting.

[@christianyork9637]

Smiling seeing Shogo so happy

[@jonasschmitz506]

I bought an katana long ago and I choose (or the sword choose me) a long antique one that was made in Fukui, after watch this video I went through the paperwork to see (curiosity to see if was the same size) and yours is bigger, mine is 71cm (28in) 2尺3寸5分.

[@bigman8592]

Love the videos and genuine enthusiasm its great!

[@Randomdudeontheinternet15]

His enthusiasm is amazing

[@Optimus367]

Nobody would expect that Shogo becomes a kid when he unboxed it, it's really awesome. If I had enough money I can buy this so bad

[@АртурСокольник-п2п]

Gotta respect the frind

[@odinnatlason5873]

I want to get a matching set like Shogo did, but I can’t find the custom wakizashi option in the Tozando store. Can anyone help out? I sure hope it wasn’t removed or something…

[@stevemolina8801]

Truly a Beautiful set, congratulations. Thank you for sharing!

[@DioBrando_Sama]

I just love this channel.

[@jeiillson]

My katana I spoke on in the last vid also has Ikkan Maki on the handle wrappings, love how it looks & feels in my hands 💯

[@jakeman12484]

Yo i love your vibe so much its like we know your a killer but your so happy and sweet THATS HARD

[@christianschulz2340]

a super fine blade. thank you shogo

[@gelmibson883]

Thanks. Can you do a piece.on Noh masks? All the best.....

[@naruomi9477]

Amazing video

[@lowpinglag]

Absolutely beautiful blades, and the smile on your face says it all ❤

[@nightjunsui]

When we buy, we receive the Wakizashi and the Uchi-Katana? Im a little confuse with that

[@kaynediaries630]

i am happy for you, if i could have 1 for myself, i would love a sakabato in that way,

[@crisscross2310]

I went with a custom wakizashi as I'm quite small and prefer the shorter blade which is more concealable, portable, and able to be used with one hand. Went with fully oil blackened blade, full tang and double grooved for a long ghter blade

[@michaelborror4399]

Nice craftsmanship and style choices!, It's interesting that I'm sure musashi must of been practicing his rope arrow/kunai technique with his looped suba 😂; I think hogi at swords of northshire has pretty great artistic taste too though.

[@jeffholverson8294]

Shogu, are the Iato katana sharp for mat cutting? Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge about a fascinating and wonderful culture. Peace upon your home, stillness in your mind, and steadiness in your grip.

[@dylanlawrence5261]

No iato are blunt training swords.not really meant to hit anything

[@solomani-42]

Beautiful weapons. Thanks for explaining.

[@dammedpotato]

wow thanks for your informational video sensei

[@chadstack2539]

Those are very nice additions to your collection!