Masaaki Hatsumi Sword Collection Ninjato Book

"Ninja Swords Collection of the Bujinkan Dojo's Grandmaster Hatsumi Masaaki, Captured by Nagao Susumu!"

Ninja swords (ninja-tō) are distinct from the artistic swords commonly seen in circulation. Although they often feature shorter blades, longer sageo (cords), and larger tsuba (guards), these elements merely represent common characteristics rather than necessary conditions. Ninja swords are designed with freedom and practicality in mind, tailored to protect the wielder and fulfill specific purposes. Each sword is a carefully crafted masterpiece, reflecting the ingenuity of ancient swordsmiths.

This photo collection aims to capture the beauty and essence of ninja swords in exquisite detail. Grandmaster Hatsumi Masaaki, renowned for his expertise in ninjutsu and martial arts, highlights the significance of these weapons. He states, "This collection will reveal the greatness of ninjas and the high level of their martial arts spirit."

Hatsumi Masaaki: Born in Chiba Prefecture in 1931, Hatsumi Masaaki is the 34th Grandmaster of Togakure-ryu Ninjutsu, among other lineages he inherited from his master Toshitsugu Takamatsu, known as "The Mongolian Tiger." Hatsumi has synthesized the essences of nine different martial traditions, including Takagi Yoshin-ryu Jutaijutsu, Koto-ryu Koppojutsu, and Gyokko-ryu Kosshijutsu, among others, to establish the Bujinkan Dojo. Even in his advanced age, Hatsumi continues to attract numerous disciples worldwide, drawn by his profound and practical martial arts knowledge.

Nagao Susumu: Born in Hokkaido in 1962, Nagao Susumu is a distinguished photographer and member of the Japan Professional Photographers Society (JPS). He began his photography career in Sapporo, focusing on informational magazines during his university years. Subsequently, he traveled the world for three years, concentrating on Africa. Upon returning to Japan, he relocated to Tokyo and began photographing various genres, including martial arts, portraits, cuisine, go, and ink painting. Notably, Nagao has been the official photographer for UFC and K-1, capturing decisive moments in the ring and studio settings.

In January 2017, he opened "studio f-1 Seijo" in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward, specializing in photographing culinary and athletic subjects. He held several photo exhibitions, including "MMA LEGEND Vol.1 Rickson Gracie" in May and the charity exhibition "MMA LEGEND Vol.2 Yoshihiro Takayama" in December. Nagao has published numerous photo books worldwide, including titles like "Tenshin Nasukawa Photo Book FLY HIGH"

64 pages

Printed in 2020

SPB-7001