Kenjutsu Books

Kenjutsu, (剣術) the traditional Japanese martial art of swordsmanship, embodies centuries of samurai tradition, discipline, and honor. Rooted in the ethos of bushido, the samurai code of conduct, Kenjutsu is not merely a means of combat but a path to personal development, spiritual growth, and mastery of the sword.

The history of Kenjutsu dates back to Japan's feudal era, when the samurai warriors honed their sword skills for battle. Samurai clans developed their own styles and techniques of swordsmanship, known as ryuha, which were passed down through generations via oral tradition and practical application.

The techniques of Kenjutsu encompassed a wide range of skills, including drawing the sword (iaijutsu), striking (tachiuchi), cutting (battojutsu), and defensive maneuvers (sabaki). Mastery of these techniques required years of rigorous training, discipline, and mental focus.

One of the most famous schools of Kenjutsu is the Niten Ichi-ryu, founded by the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi in the early 17th century. Musashi's teachings emphasized the use of two swords simultaneously, known as Niten Ichi-ryu, and embodied the principles of strategy, adaptability, and psychological warfare.

During the peaceful Edo period (1603-1868), Kenjutsu evolved from a practical battlefield skill into a refined art form and means of personal development. Various schools of Kenjutsu flourished, each with its distinctive techniques, philosophies, and training methods.

With the advent of the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, Japan underwent a period of rapid modernization and social change. Kenjutsu underwent a transformation, moving away from its roots as a martial art and evolving into a form of cultural heritage and physical education.

In the modern era, Kenjutsu continues to be practiced and preserved by martial artists and enthusiasts worldwide. Its principles of discipline, focus, and respect remain as relevant today as they were in feudal Japan, making Kenjutsu a timeless and profound martial art.

Our store offers a curated selection of Kenjutsu books that delve into its history, techniques, and philosophy. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Kenjutsu, these books provide invaluable insights into the rich and profound world of Japanese swordsmanship. Explore our collection and deepen your understanding and appreciation of Kenjutsu's timeless legacy and enduring relevance.

Martial Arts Secrets Book by Yutaka Yoshida (Preowned)

Martial Arts Secrets Book by Yutaka Yoshida (Preowned)

Regular price $59.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $59.00 USD
Intermediate Shurikenjutsu: Uncovering the Principles of Shuriken & How to Throw Them Book by Houzan Suzuki (3rd Edition)

Intermediate Shurikenjutsu: Uncovering the Principles of Shuriken & How to Throw Them Book by Houzan Suzuki (3rd Edition)

Regular price $249.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $249.00 USD
The World of Shuriken Book by Shirakami Ikuken (Preowned)

The World of Shuriken Book by Shirakami Ikuken (Preowned)

Regular price $129.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $129.00 USD
The Deity & the Sword: Katori Shinto Ryu Book 1 by Risuke Otake (Hardcover) (Preowned)

The Deity & the Sword: Katori Shinto Ryu Book 1 by Risuke Otake (Hardcover) (Preowned)

Regular price $199.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $199.00 USD
Musashi Book Three - Moon, Sun & Perfect Clarity - The Novel: New Unabridged Translation by Eiji Yoshikawa

Musashi Book Three - Moon, Sun & Perfect Clarity - The Novel: New Unabridged Translation by Eiji Yoshikawa

Regular price $17.95 USD
Regular price $39.00 USD Sale price $17.95 USD
Musashi Book Two - Wind & Ether - The Novel: New Unabridged Translation by Eiji Yoshikawa

Musashi Book Two - Wind & Ether - The Novel: New Unabridged Translation by Eiji Yoshikawa

Regular price $17.99 USD
Regular price $39.00 USD Sale price $17.99 USD
Musashi Book One - Earth, Water & Fire - The Novel: New Unabridged Translation by Eiji Yoshikawa

Musashi Book One - Earth, Water & Fire - The Novel: New Unabridged Translation by Eiji Yoshikawa

Regular price $21.95 USD
Regular price $39.00 USD Sale price $21.95 USD
Tennen Rishin Ryu: The Swordsmanship of the Shinsengumi Book (Expanded Edition)

Tennen Rishin Ryu: The Swordsmanship of the Shinsengumi Book (Expanded Edition)

Regular price $59.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $59.00 USD
Martial Arts Secrets Book by Yutaka Yoshida (Hardcover)(Preowned)

Martial Arts Secrets Book by Yutaka Yoshida (Hardcover)(Preowned)

Regular price $59.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $59.00 USD
The Deep Meaning of Kata Book

The Deep Meaning of Kata Book

Regular price $26.95 USD
Regular price $39.00 USD Sale price $26.95 USD
The Sword & the Mind: The Classic Japanese Treatise on Swordsmanship and Tactics Book by Hiroaki Sato (Preowned)

The Sword & the Mind: The Classic Japanese Treatise on Swordsmanship and Tactics Book by Hiroaki Sato (Preowned)

Regular price $18.95 USD
Regular price Sale price $18.95 USD
Sword of the Samurai: The Classical Art of Japanese Swordsmanship Book by George Parulski (Preowned)

Sword of the Samurai: The Classical Art of Japanese Swordsmanship Book by George Parulski (Preowned)

Regular price $12.95 USD
Regular price Sale price $12.95 USD
Secrets of Itto Ryu: Book Five by Junzo Sasamori

Secrets of Itto Ryu: Book Five by Junzo Sasamori

Regular price $34.95 USD
Regular price $39.95 USD Sale price $34.95 USD
Jujutsu, Sword & Spear: A Guide to Self-Defense Book by Hisamatsu Sadamoto

Jujutsu, Sword & Spear: A Guide to Self-Defense Book by Hisamatsu Sadamoto

Regular price $32.95 USD
Regular price $39.95 USD Sale price $32.95 USD
Highland Knife Fighting With the Dirk and Sgian Book by Christopher Scott Thompson (Preowned)

Highland Knife Fighting With the Dirk and Sgian Book by Christopher Scott Thompson (Preowned)

Regular price $39.95 USD
Regular price Sale price $39.95 USD
Katori Shinto Ryu: Warrior Tradition Book by Risuke Otake (Hardcover)

Katori Shinto Ryu: Warrior Tradition Book by Risuke Otake (Hardcover)

Regular price $499.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $499.00 USD
Kenjutsu: Art of Japanese Sword Book by Charles Daniel

Kenjutsu: Art of Japanese Sword Book by Charles Daniel

Regular price $29.95 USD
Regular price $34.95 USD Sale price $29.95 USD
Jigen Ryu: The Military Record of the Yakumaru Jikensai Style Kenjutsu Book by Toshiyuki Itani (Preowned)

Jigen Ryu: The Military Record of the Yakumaru Jikensai Style Kenjutsu Book by Toshiyuki Itani (Preowned)

Regular price $119.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $119.00 USD
Jirokichi Yamada Kendo Collected Works Complete 9 Book Set (Preowned)

Jirokichi Yamada Kendo Collected Works Complete 9 Book Set (Preowned)

Regular price $895.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $895.00 USD
Jigen Ryu - The Sword Style That Defeats in One Strike! Book by Toshiyuki Itani

Jigen Ryu - The Sword Style That Defeats in One Strike! Book by Toshiyuki Itani

Regular price $24.95 USD
Regular price $39.00 USD Sale price $24.95 USD