The making of armor 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 end up being of less value than the reduced price would suggest.

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 makes the products more expensive. Nevertheless, there are customers who purchase and cherish these items, and their support is a daily motivation for us. We are very happy to have such relationships with our customers.

**Kiyonobu Awataguchi**
A swordsmith from Kyoto’s Awataguchi, following the lineage of the Sanjō Kōjutsu Munetaka school. The renowned master, Sanjō Kōjutsu Munetaka, crafted the national treasure "Mikazuki Munechika" and is enshrined at the "Kaji Shrine," a subsidiary of the Awataguchi Shrine. Following the ban on swords, he transitioned to creating decorative armor utilizing his cultivated metalworking skills. Awataguchi Kiyonobu’s armor is characterized by craftsmanship that is consistently handmade with meticulous attention to detail. In the first year of Heisei (1989), he was certified as a Traditional Craftsman by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. In Heisei 13 (2001), he received the "Kyō no Meikō" (Kyoto’s Master Craftsman) award for outstanding traditional industry techniques. He is a distinguished master representing Kyoto’s armor-making scene, with numerous achievements in various competitions.

**National Treasure: Kamakura Period (13th–14th century)**
*“Red Threaded O-yoroi (Large Armor with Bamboo and Sparrow Metalwork, Bamboo Tora Armor)”*
This armor, housed at Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara, is arguably the most famous among the national treasures of armor. It features detailed decorative metal fittings based on bamboo, tigers, and sparrows, complemented by motifs of wisteria, paulownia, chrysanthemums, and butterflies. The large kabuto (helmet) with its expansive crest is breathtaking. The deep red silk thread still retains a fiery hue, making it one of Japan’s most splendid examples. The large metal fittings inspired by the "bamboo with tigers" motif on the large sleeve are particularly striking. The humorous expression of the tiger contrasts with the sharp-eyed sparrows, adding an interesting touch. Many armorers have studied this national treasure as a model, conducting research and producing reproductions for the public.

This armor is finished with **black lacquered small plates** made using the same technique as the national treasure housed at Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara.

**Notice Regarding Size and Weight**
- Shipping estimate: Orders are shipped approximately 10 to 20 days after receipt.
- Orders for items that are out of stock, made-to-order products, or orders placed during store closures or with the shipping company may not be delivered on the scheduled date. Delivery may also be delayed due to weather conditions or transportation issues by land, air, or sea.
- Dimensions and weight vary depending on the product.
- Our website indicates that small items weigh around 1,000 grams, while large helmets and armor typically weigh about 20,000 grams.
- The sizes listed on the website correspond to the actual product dimensions.