Armor making requires traditional handcrafting techniques and materials that have been passed down through generations. If these are sourced from overseas, it may be possible to lower the price. However, the finished product may become less valuable than the reduced price suggests.
Since the era of our predecessors, we have built mutual trust with skilled artisans. However, in recent years, many artisans have closed their businesses, leading to concerns about the loss of traditional techniques. Handmade production naturally results in small quantities, which inevitably increases the price. Nevertheless, there are customers who purchase our products and cherish them, which motivates us daily. We are very happy to have such relationships with our customers.
《 Kiyonobu Awataguchi 》A swordsmith from Kyoto Awataguchi, following the tradition of the Sanjō Kōza Moronobu school. The master craftsman, Sanjō Kōza Moronobu, created the national treasure "Mikazuki Munechika" and is enshrined at the Kaji Shrine, a subsidiary of the Awataguchi Shrine located in Awataguchi. Due to the sword ban order, he transitioned to making decorative armor utilizing his developed metalworking techniques.
Kiyonobu Awataguchi’s armor is characterized by craftsmanship that is consistently handmade with meticulous attention to detail. In 1989, he was recognized as a Traditional Craftsman designated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. In 2001, he received the "Kyoto Master Craftsman" award from Kyoto Prefecture for outstanding traditional industry skills. He is a renowned master representing Kyoto armor craftsmanship, with many distinguished achievements in various competitions.
Spring Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kamakura period (13th–14th century)《 National Treasure: Red Threaded O-yoroi (Bamboo with Sparrow Metal Armor / Bamboo Tora Armor) 》This is one of the most famous armor pieces housed at Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara Prefecture, designated as a national treasure. It features detailed decorative metal fittings based on motifs of bamboo, tigers, and sparrows, complemented by藤,桐,菊,蝶 (wisteria, paulownia, chrysanthemum, butterfly). The large kabuto (helmet) with a wide, spreading maedate (crest) is breathtaking. The deep red silk thread still retains a fiery hue, making it one of Japan’s finest examples of armor craftsmanship. The large sode (shoulder guards) with the design of "bamboo with tiger" is particularly striking. The humorous expression of the tiger contrasts with the sharp-eyed sparrows. Many armor makers have studied this national treasure, reproducing and presenting copies to the world.
＜ Hon Taka Hane Yumi Tachi ＞The feathers used in yumi (bow) and tachi (long sword) are mainly chosen for their beautiful patterns. Sometimes, plain white waterfowl (duck) feathers with printed patterns are used, but the most rare and beautiful are those of the "hawk." Hawks are considered symbols of the samurai spirit, admired for their noble appearance, strength, and bravery. In arrow feathers, hawk (bird of prey) feathers were regarded as a mark of a warrior’s refinement, representing honor and martial valor, and were permitted only for high-ranking samurai. Ordinary soldiers used mixed feathers. Even soldiers who were shot in battle considered hawk feathers to be noble, feeling a sense of honor from the feathers of their opponents.
＜ Kataoka Byōbu-ten ＞The only folding screen specialty store in Tokyo. Since its founding in 1946 in Sumida, Tokyo, it has specialized in manufacturing folding screens for festivals, hotel venues, and decorations. The company also operates a folding screen museum and offers experiences in making folding screens, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of folding screen culture. A company dedicated to producing traditional Japanese folding screens.
― Notice Regarding Size and Weight ―・Shipping estimate: Ships approximately 10 to 20 days after order acceptance.・ Orders for out-of-stock items, made-to-order products, or orders placed during transportation company or store closures may not be delivered by the scheduled shipping date. Delivery may also be delayed due to weather conditions or maritime and land transportation issues.・ The dimensions and weight of boxes vary depending on the product.Small items on our website typically weigh around 1,000 grams, while large helmets and armor are approximately 20,000 grams as a guideline.・ The sizes listed on the website refer to the product dimensions.