I Handed Zatōichi's Katana Cane to a Samurai Master and THIS Happened

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  • Опубліковано 23 вер 2023
  • This is actually a Shikomizue that is very similar to the one that Zatoichi, the blind swordsman, uses. For anyone who doesn’t know Zatōichi, he is the model of Fujitora in One Piece. How Zatōichi fights in the movies and dramas is completely fictional. But how would you use it if you really had to fight with his sword?
    So today, Seki sensei, the 22nd headmaster of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu with 400 years of history, will introduce various ways to fight with a Shikomizue. You will witness amazing techniques that can only be created by Seki Sensei, who is a master in both the katana and the staff. The last Kata he created is especially cool, so you can’t leave this video without seeing it.
    *The content of our videos is based on the teachings of Asayama Ichiden Ryu and personal studies/experience | There is no intention of denying other Ryuha styles, theories, and cultural aspects
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    #katana #iaido #kenjutsu #zatoichi #swordcane
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 681

  • @letsasksekisensei
    @letsasksekisensei  8 місяців тому +50

    ▼Join the Online Kobudo Training with Seki Sensei▼
    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. No previous martial arts experience is required, and you can catch up anytime. On the other hand, even if you already belong to a different dojo or Ryuha, as long as you’ve clarified it with your Sensei, you are free to join. (Learn more about the online lessons: ua-cam.com/video/ZBXqjXbbknM/v-deo.html | This is an example of our lessons: ua-cam.com/video/E8_0vDlV-8E/v-deo.html)
    ▼Interested in learning Japanese ONLINE from Shogo?▼
    patreon.com/lets_ask_shogo
    The best online lessons for anyone interested in learning Japanese, but don’t know where to start. We will be using the studying material "いろどり Irodori (starter level)," which you can download for free. It's specially designed to teach practical Japanese to people who want to travel, study, or live in Japan (You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make the lessons live).
    ▼Please support this channel through Ko-fi (a donation platform like Patreon)▼
    ko-fi.com/letsaskshogo
    The management (filming, editing, etc.) of this new Asayama Ichiden Ryu's English Channel "Let's ask Seki Sensei" is completely Shogo’s voluntary work. If he is 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, we will try our best to create the most educational and exciting content about Japanese Kobudo.
    ▼The BEST online katana shop for martial arts (Katana, Dōgi Training Gear, etc.): Tozando▼
    tozandoshop.com/letsaskshogo
    Everything that Shogo uses for their katana training is bought at this shop… Shogo still uses the first training katana he bought in 2016 and is still in good shape!
    ▼Welcome to the Membership▼
    ua-cam.com/channels/H2QObLwiO1LnghsJRmVPEw.htmljoin
    Your support will help us to do more activities in the future, and to achieve the ultimate goal of reviving the golden age of Asayama Ichiden Ryu when we had 7,000 students nationwide.
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    Get our shirts, hoodies, towels, etc. with the Asayama Ichiden Ryu Crest
    The Asayama Ichiden Ryu's crest is the family crest of the 19th headmaster, Takeishi Sensei. The design represents two arrows which are believed to ward off evil.
    ▼What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu? / Who is Seki sensei?▼
    ua-cam.com/video/2aBKmWmJpJw/v-deo.html
    ▼Seki sensei's Ultimate Dream▼
    "To revive the golden age of Asayama Ichiden Ryu with 7,000 students nationwide"
    Asayama Ichiden Ryu was once the number one Ryuha in Japan during the Edo period (1603~1868), with more than 7,000 students throughout the country. Seki Sensei hopes to restore as much of the glory of this era as possible while he himself is the 22nd headmaster. Please help and support us in this endeavor.
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    • @stcredzero
      @stcredzero 7 місяців тому

      How did they make the purpose-built shikomizue blades straight? Are they not differentially hardened? Were they made from monosteels?

    • @Jougi_Baba
      @Jougi_Baba 7 місяців тому

      grew up watching zatoichi. Great watch

    • @SteveWalkey
      @SteveWalkey 7 місяців тому

      Archery, please! 🇬🇧

    • @loneronin6813
      @loneronin6813 6 місяців тому

      I have a question about the Kobudo training: When training with say a sword for example, would it be possible to do so with one hand? I know that a Katana is typically wielded with two hands unless you're using a wakizashi in the other, but I have disabilities (even though I'm 31) that affect me (my back and hips) but also affect the functionality of my hands, making it impossible to wield any weapon in both hands. Is this something I could work around or perhaps another weapon I should focus on as opposed to a sword? I've been learning more about knife techniques from various sources, but sadly haven't found reliable information on the use of the Tanto. Anyway, thanks for your time and consideration should you run across this comment. Much respect.

    • @hamasmillitant1
      @hamasmillitant1 3 місяці тому +2

      the draw block is often how i start fight with my bastard sword/hand & half sword also. particualy fighting sword/axe & shield or spears. its very effective if you block on sheath & step in & to the side drawing sword across side of chest under armpit or above arm across side of neck above shield if they have a shield then reverse for blow to back of head/neck & their shield gets in way of a counter blow

  • @gsomethingsomething2658
    @gsomethingsomething2658 8 місяців тому +283

    _"Everyone has a plan until they get cut by a Shikomizue."_
    - Miko Tysono

  • @Megidramon
    @Megidramon 8 місяців тому +711

    The fact that Seki-sensei is such a master to where he can imagine all these kata simply by looking at the weapon only goes to show how deep his knowledge actually is. Relating the shikomizue to the wakizashi, tanto, and jo rather than the katana is just brilliant, and proves that, in the hands of a true master such as Seki-sensei, anything can be just as effective and dangerous as a bladed weapon.

    • @omegasnake18
      @omegasnake18 8 місяців тому +32

      reminds me of that line from the 2000s TMNT Series that Splinter tells his sons. "In the hands of a true master, ANYTHING can be a deadly weapon"

    • @dallaire876
      @dallaire876 8 місяців тому +6

      Real life Baki character

    • @jllemin4
      @jllemin4 8 місяців тому +10

      That what it means to think of your weapon as an extention of your arm.

    • @joshschneider9766
      @joshschneider9766 8 місяців тому

      ​@@omegasnake18it's absolutely true. Part of army krav maga in Israel is using anything close to hand as a killing weapon. I can think of a dozen similar truths from other nations as well. This man is clearly a true master

    • @graphosencrenoir4006
      @graphosencrenoir4006 7 місяців тому +1

      @@omegasnake18 yeah like a pen or pencil, Wick style...

  • @edmartin9343
    @edmartin9343 8 місяців тому +298

    I really like the “take a knee, break his foot, then draw up into the neck” sequence. It really captures the idea that you’re done fighting while the other guy is still working their way through the whole “Wait, that’s a sword?!” Series of thoughts. Seems like a good plan. Plus the sensei saying that it isn’t a good sword for actual sword-fighting sword, so you have to end things quickly. Very sensible 🤺

    • @Crimsonwolf-is3sf
      @Crimsonwolf-is3sf 4 місяці тому +7

      i really liked the defence from behind, into a stab to the ribs sequence...literally made me go "ooooooo"

    • @Jamhael1
      @Jamhael1 3 місяці тому +1

      It is the ancient equivalent of throwing a rubber duck instead of a grenade into a room filled with enemies.
      (See The Fat Electrician for reference)

    • @Cypeq
      @Cypeq 2 місяці тому +1

      I really don't like this move, I have feeling most but the most agile of people wold have sword in their back before they reached enemies foot. Full speed drill here would be quite pointless as 50-60 year old master is not gonna outpace his student doing agile quick doge.

    • @lennythompson2923
      @lennythompson2923 2 місяці тому +1

      @@Crimsonwolf-is3sfthat’s gonna pierce the heart definitely a lung

    • @TheObeyMayhem
      @TheObeyMayhem Місяць тому

      it really capture the idea that this guy has no idea what he is doing, no one is going to feel a stick smack their foot when their adrenaline is already up. He's going to poke their foot and lose his head at the same time.

  • @NSResponder
    @NSResponder 8 місяців тому +50

    I've been a Zatoichi fan for many years, and this is the first time I've seen any sensei talking about this weapon. Thanks for a very informative lesson.

    • @gourdguru
      @gourdguru 8 місяців тому +3

      it's a niche outlier. it wasn't a battlefield sword, it was mostly popular as a late era sword made to duck the law in the last gasps of the samurai era, so koryu often don't realy have anything specific to it and don't address it. most people who do talk about it are overhyping it as a ninja gimick. i like that seki sensei sees it for exactly what it is "Oh, it's a sword that looks like a stick, so i can just use it like a stick then" and immediately proceeds to apply jo staff techniques while using the blade itself basically only as a finishing strike.

  • @bigmoe28
    @bigmoe28 8 місяців тому +99

    Thank you sensei.
    The issue I've had with most of the "Debunking the reverse grip style" videos is they try to use it as a dedicated dueling form, rather than the close range, short burst, surprise attack style that it's suited for. They also forget the big role that footwork plays. Zatoichi's style may be exaggerated, but it still held to this principle, and illustrated the flaws by the simple fact that the only times he was truly in danger was when an opponent was able to escape the initial strike and drag it out into a proper duel.

    • @kevinmorrice
      @kevinmorrice 6 місяців тому +11

      exactly, these debunking videos never actually debunk anything they just show you how not to use it

    • @Gr3nadgr3gory
      @Gr3nadgr3gory 2 місяці тому

      Some martial arts are best used offensively. Even when used for defense.

  • @cumulus4119
    @cumulus4119 8 місяців тому +307

    Seki Sensei would be the Endboss in every Samurai Game :) His Skills are amazing!

    • @hazukichanx408
      @hazukichanx408 8 місяців тому +24

      He'd be that guy in Nioh or something that starts off with one weapon, then switches to another with a whole different move set, and then another! Yeah, those guys'll get ya.

    • @chuckporter9526
      @chuckporter9526 8 місяців тому +18

      I'd have him more as the dude you talk to at your hub area, turn in your XP for new skills. Buy a skill, and you have to fight him both with and against the skill you just bought.

    • @AlexM-oq5el
      @AlexM-oq5el 8 місяців тому +8

      That implies he could be beaten haha

    • @user-pq4by2rq9y
      @user-pq4by2rq9y 8 місяців тому +7

      He would be the lore accurate protagonist

    • @samyakroy4210
      @samyakroy4210 8 місяців тому +2

      ​@@chuckporter9526like a sensei? 😆

  • @mannywilliams6409
    @mannywilliams6409 8 місяців тому +67

    As skilled as Seki Sensei is I greatly admire his ability to remain humble.

  • @jaredingram5124
    @jaredingram5124 2 місяці тому +6

    To overcome the upside/downside issue - you could etch a dot into the grip and put a colour into it...or have a ribbon or tassel attached to the top of the handle to help identify which way the blade is facing, have it slightly offset so you can tell 😉

    • @harpersnyder2297
      @harpersnyder2297 4 дні тому

      Doing that would actually cancel the sole purpose of the can sword which is stealth. Since the marks would make your opponent(s) suspicious about the sword if they spot the colors.

    • @Hawthorne-Games
      @Hawthorne-Games День тому

      @@harpersnyder2297 Yeah true, but if it's a decoration with a stud subtly within it maybe not.

  • @jrlonergan6773
    @jrlonergan6773 8 місяців тому +40

    Seki Sensei has such an infectious joy when he is demonstrating his arts.

  • @fafadk
    @fafadk 8 місяців тому +45

    There is so much anyone could learn from someone like Seki-sensei. He's not just a great martial artist, he's a fantastic teacher. It's not just passion, you can see the man is full of joy when he demonstrates and talks about his art and the history behind it. If all of us could have this level of accomplishment about something in our lives, the world would definitively be a better place.

  • @lucasfv1357
    @lucasfv1357 8 місяців тому +87

    Wonderful! More glory for the reverse grip today
    Not only is it great to see these skills and experiments, but it genuinely looks like Seki-sensei is having fun too. That makes it more engaging to watch, like we can witness the joy of creating something (weapon skills and kata, in this case) from his years of experience

  • @markfergerson2145
    @markfergerson2145 8 місяців тому +47

    This was wonderfully educational, and just wonderful in general.
    When the Zatoichi films starring Shintaro Katsu hit American late night TV in the1980s I was instantly hooked. (I much prefer his portrayal to those of other actors who played the role specifically because of his plain appearance and humble demeanor, exactly what a ronin should be even with hysterical blindness.)
    As I understand it, the three diagonal grooves on the hilt are only on one side to indicate by touch where the edge of the blade is. In many of the films you can see Ichi-San feeling the mouth of the saya to know how to hold it so he can sheathe the blade after a fight, but he always knows where the edge is. There is usually an insert shot (an extreme closeup) of his hand finding the grooves when he has laid down or dropped the sheathed sword so that he knows it’s orientation.
    It was amazing to see Seki sensei almost instinctively use reverse grip and have it be effective. For so many years people have dismissed Zatoichi’s reverse grip as pure fantasy but we now have proof that it can be effective even if only in the hands of a master like Seki or a literal legend like Zatoichi.
    Thank you both for this. I may have to binge watch the Zatoichi films again. 😊

    • @gourdguru
      @gourdguru 8 місяців тому +4

      *the three diagonal grooves on the hilt are only on one side to indicate by touch where the edge of the blade is.*
      exactly. although it's actually rarely 3 in the films. depending on which film you're talking about, it's usually either just 1 groove or it's 2. 3 grooves is common on cheap knockoff replicas and may be in one of the newer versions, but i'm not sure.
      but yes, Ichi always knows his edge alignment because of those grooves. he also commonly pinches the spine of the blade about halfway down and then follows the bo-hi to the tip so he knows when his fingers, and thereby also the scabbard, are nearing the tip of the blade.
      if you're watching the series again, my fav is personally the 1989 Zatoichi directed by the actor.

    • @TheSuperhuman622
      @TheSuperhuman622 8 місяців тому +2

      I used to watch zatoichi with my grandma

    • @cupguin
      @cupguin 7 місяців тому +4

      One of my first thoughts while watching this was "I should binge all of my Zatoichi films". Then just how long that will take. Ended up thinking I can't be the only person about to go spend a chunk of time binging.

  • @TheActionBastard
    @TheActionBastard 8 місяців тому +22

    I saw Shintaro Katsu in Zatoichi and was amazed. I went to look it up and noticed it had... a sequel?! Then I realized that it wasn't one sequel... or even two... this dude is the James Bond of japan and there's over 20 damn movies with that same actor. They're all superb. Beautiful and heart wrenching stories with a formula I appreciated and could predict sometimes... but often the story would do a new thing and take a different twist. All the dice games! HA! The samurai cutting the coin scene and demanding to see his "lightning blade" was just **chef kiss** perfect. On the must see list of martial arts movies... at least one of the films. Minimum. "The legendary blind swordsman"

    • @aletter8630
      @aletter8630 8 місяців тому +1

      I have been trying to buy as many Zatoichi movies as I can find, there's so many of them lol

    • @Stanlayy-em4fk
      @Stanlayy-em4fk 8 місяців тому +1

      ​@@aletter8630
      Criterion collection

    • @lvcsslacker
      @lvcsslacker 8 місяців тому +1

      I'm hoping to get the box set at some point.

    • @Stanlayy-em4fk
      @Stanlayy-em4fk 8 місяців тому +1

      @@lvcsslacker
      Catch them when they do their annual half-off promotions. It should be one coming up before the end of the year.

    • @kordelas2514
      @kordelas2514 6 місяців тому

      To be exact, there are 26 films and 100 TV show episodes with Katsu.

  • @abu_Mux1ammad
    @abu_Mux1ammad 14 днів тому +2

    The teacher has a special respect, I wish he taught zatoyichi fencing style. I welcome you from the solo country of Azerbaijan 🇦🇿and subscribe clean because of the teacher

  • @tnh723
    @tnh723 8 місяців тому +26

    Im just so grateful that Sensei is so patient and a good sport entertaining all of the stuff we have dreamed about asking the real deal expert. Thank you for all your awesome topics :-)

  • @samyakroy4210
    @samyakroy4210 8 місяців тому +12

    It was clear from Seki sensei's face that he was having a lot of fun while creating new katas and teaching us. Wonderful content 🤩

  • @SlideIX
    @SlideIX 8 місяців тому +13

    My family own two European style sword canes and out of interest I have learned about how they should be used properly. Watching this I can say that the way to use a European sword cane and shikomizue is very different but they do have one thing in common, using the cane/scabbard in conjunction with the blade. Again they way it is used is different but both everything I learned/was taught and the way Seki Sensei demonstrated the uses of Shikomizue maximum it usage.
    Anyway I just thought it was interesting

  • @Kristopher_McPherson
    @Kristopher_McPherson 8 місяців тому +10

    I'd love to see how Seki Sensei moves with a nagamaki, could we please see a demonstration? 🙏

  • @Voodoomaria
    @Voodoomaria Місяць тому +1

    It's an honour just to be able to watch this man.
    Poetry in motion.

  • @ChristyOFaghan
    @ChristyOFaghan 8 місяців тому +5

    I enjoyed the katas demonstrating form, but I especially appreciated seeing just how practical Zatoichi's blade could be.

  • @KMO325
    @KMO325 8 місяців тому +60

    Great video. I really enjoyed seeing the real-life application of the cane-sword. When I was in high school in the 2000s, the IFC channel in the United States use to have a Saturday programming block called Samurai Saturdays where different samurai movies would be shown on tv-a lot of those movies were either Kurosawa or Zatoichi films.

    • @aletter8630
      @aletter8630 8 місяців тому +7

      I used to watch Samurai Saturdays on IFC as well, that's how I got introduced to Zatoichi, great times

    • @cliftonfurney5083
      @cliftonfurney5083 8 місяців тому +4

      Zatoichi and the chess master was the best

    • @connorperrett9559
      @connorperrett9559 8 місяців тому +3

      They definitely don't show any films approximating the caliber of Kurosawa's work on public television these days.

    • @SoldierAndrew
      @SoldierAndrew 8 місяців тому +4

      Yojimbo (the bodyguard) was an excellent film .

    • @gourdguru
      @gourdguru 8 місяців тому +2

      @@aletter8630 same. i got a zatoichi replica canesword and practiced with it constantly for a while. got the same sense that sensei seems to. it's a weapon of last resort, and really meant as a defensive parry and counterattack weapon that uses the element of surprise to buy you an opening to end it quickly.
      even moreso if you look at Ichi's blade specifically.
      the replicas are usually full katana length at around 28 inches of blade, but in most of the films Ichi's sword is actually closer to a longer wakizashi or a ninja-to in length, i'd guess between 22-24 inches, perfect for fighting inside gambling house hallways and rowhouse alleys where a katana would be cramped, especially for a blind man. not an ideal weapon, but ideal for Ichi's purposes, self defense in tight quarters.

  • @buddymoore1543
    @buddymoore1543 3 дні тому +1

    I am blind and I live in Texas. I wasn't always blind. I was in a medieval and fantasy battle reenactment club 30 years ago. I have been a student of two schools of Hapkido and recently Aikido, Jodo and a beginning student of Daito-Ryu AikiJujutsu. Fighting for blind people like zatoichi, Dare Devil or blind Fury is complete fiction but I have been working out some of my own tactics for self-defense since I lost my sight. I don't think they would work on any skilled fighter except to take an attacker by surprise.
    I own and carry several types of firearms...because no one robs people from across the street and I can manage to hit people right in front of me just fine. However when in public this isn't safe for others so I will be purchasing a Zatoichi Shikomi-Zu sword cane in a month or so around my birthday. I fully intend to take advantage of Jo techniques and Hapkido Cane techniques many of which are actually Hanbo techniques because I carry and use walking sticks and canes as mobility aids every day and the best weapon is the one you are already holding. It really is true that others will often bully or attack blind people if they appear helpless and now that carrying a sword is actually legal in Texas I will be putting in some practice in my backyard. I am grateful to you and your students for thoughtfully presenting this idea to the public. for me it might well become a reality one day. thank you.

  • @Luka-Garu
    @Luka-Garu 8 місяців тому +9

    Seki sensei is amazing, he can make anything work

  • @MrScary67
    @MrScary67 8 місяців тому +3

    With regards to Zatoichi I found the movies to be enjoyable. I know his sword fighting style was fictional but I like how even seasoned samurai didn't know how to fight him. The actor, Shintaro Katsu was a great actor with a unique physicality, a way of moving, that was very much a part of the character. I have to say one of my favorite moments is at the end of "Zatoichi and the Fugitive"... at the very end. As he is leaving, he is dancing down the road...smiling and happy. Once he knows that nobody can see him, it's like a mask fell from him and we see his true self. There are many moments like that throughout the series. Superb.

  • @asa-punkatsouthvinland7145
    @asa-punkatsouthvinland7145 8 місяців тому +5

    I love to see how Seki Sensei adapts already established techniques from other weapons he knows to use the Shikomizue!
    This, to me, shows a true warrior mindset; being able to adapt known principles to less known or unknown weapons.

  • @richt63
    @richt63 8 місяців тому +16

    Fantastic. I enjoyed watching Seki Sensei in these videos. Especially in this one explaining the techniques and history of this weapon found in the movies and anime was actually used in the Meiji period. Love this video ❤

  • @FangedBeauty
    @FangedBeauty 8 місяців тому +7

    This was my favorite video of you yet! So awesome!

  • @jownbey
    @jownbey 2 дні тому

    Having watched a number of these it is gratifying to see Seki-sensei loosening up in front of the camera. I must admit that he is crafty, which is one of the highest compliments that I can give a fighter. As a wrestler I was an all-american and I feel that same happiness that you can see on Seki-sensei's face when I'm wrestling at practice and having fun working through funky situations.

  • @synthonaplinth5980
    @synthonaplinth5980 2 місяці тому

    Seki-Sensei at 00:58: "I get to play with a cane sword today!"
    Seriously, the joy on his face is wonderful. :)

  • @kevinstewart7792
    @kevinstewart7792 8 місяців тому +5

    The one I experienced had slight grip on one side that let you tell which way the edge was facing, very cool video :)

  • @crazistuff7051
    @crazistuff7051 6 місяців тому +3

    Super cool. Subscribed.
    Loved how humble this master is.
    Great cinematography and incredible moves.

  • @MrGHorf
    @MrGHorf 3 дні тому

    Seki sensei moves with such grace, precision and control. It's amazing to watch. Mad respect!

  • @Scario45
    @Scario45 8 місяців тому +3

    I like the fact that being someone with so much experience he could manage to make a weapon of any form of objects you'd put into his hands

  • @Vekren
    @Vekren 8 місяців тому +22

    It’s awesome because as one wouldnt know which side the blade is on the user would have to add something maybe carve something into the cane saya or attack something so they could easiy sheath. Also the attack from the front I could totally see how this attack could happen to an old master and they would be so surprised about the hidden blade. And the kata where Sekei sensei hit the wrist and did the down diagnal cut is totally like a Zatoichi trade mark move. The last kata aswell looks like how Zatoichi moves too. Aregato gozai masu again.

    • @MrBracey100
      @MrBracey100 8 місяців тому +5

      I always thought the handle had those notches so you could tell where the edge of the blade was before drawing it.

    • @Izanagioomikami
      @Izanagioomikami 8 місяців тому

      It's Arigatou gozaimasu. Not aregato

    • @Vekren
      @Vekren 8 місяців тому +2

      @@Izanagioomikami Lol I did read the end again. P.S This video was upon MY request. Your welcome.

    • @UmbraFulgur
      @UmbraFulgur 8 місяців тому

      ​@@Izanagioomikami, romaji is always tricky for a westerner.

    • @Vekren
      @Vekren 8 місяців тому

      @@UmbraFulgur so true brother

  • @nathanmarineau3993
    @nathanmarineau3993 7 місяців тому +1

    Okay, this is one of your coolest videos yet! I really enjoyed it.

  • @n.w.1803
    @n.w.1803 7 місяців тому +7

    A note on blade orientation: On the Zatoichi-style canes (several manufacturers have imitations for sale), there're two little hatch marks on the hilt that rest under the fingertips, to help tell which side the edge is on. In a similar place to the mekugi on a conventionally-wrapped tsuka.

    • @nimay13
      @nimay13 6 місяців тому +1

      I would imagine the owners would make such markings themselves.

    • @Dr.JustIsWrong
      @Dr.JustIsWrong 4 місяці тому

      _Some_ of them, by no means all. Zatoichi's handle was tapered away from the palm. Sometimes. 😂

    • @n.w.1803
      @n.w.1803 4 місяці тому +1

      @@Dr.JustIsWrong I think mine might be styled after the Beat Takeshi remake..

    • @Dr.JustIsWrong
      @Dr.JustIsWrong 4 місяці тому

      @@n.w.1803 ​ _"I think mine might be styled after the Beat Takeshi remake.."_
      Kewl! 😁
      I customize my own (to fit my style) from 9260 Steel alloy, by examining images of Ichi's smallest swords and comparing them to various features of his 'not very large' thick hands, and it's apparent performance.. e.g. speed, balance points, flexibility..
      Though I prefer a full (~220mm, 16-18mm, 5mm) straight tang;
      two mekugi-ana (peg holes),
      no tsuba or seppa (ofc),
      rubber habaki to grip into an embedded 6061 aluminum koiguchi,
      nagasa approx (74cm, 19mm, 4.5mm, 350grams),
      tsuka & saya made from hickory pick-handles;
      tsuka 'grip area' tapered teardrop cross section (25mm, 14mm, 11-12mm);
      tsuka rotated ~ 2.5 degrees clockwise
      a narrow cone of 6061 aluminum epoxy embedded within the tip of the saya to prevent excessive splitting when used as a 'rod';
      Self-gluing electrical heat-shrink to protect the saya tip while tapping the ground;
      And as a sheathing cheat a 25-28mm V cut through the koiguchi sharp edge open ; drops the blade in sooner. 😁
      Omg! Who cares what I do lol 🤣🤣
      Ps. I slightly hollow grind with ~1.6m radius, and grind the edge to a narrow 33 degree angle.

    • @Dr.JustIsWrong
      @Dr.JustIsWrong 4 місяці тому

      I heat treat just the edge by forging the whole length red hot and quenching just the edge with full length sponge soaked in oil, letting it cool to room temp, then temper out the excessive hardness by 'baking' the unit to 400 ℉ for two hours and let it cool naturally.
      Very springy!

  • @GentleGiantJoe
    @GentleGiantJoe 8 місяців тому +1

    5:33 That was indeed the coolest kata for a counter using the cane sword. Smooth and fast, I praise your sensei for showing us these movements.

  • @Vekren
    @Vekren 8 місяців тому +1

    Omg!! Thank you so much for the video. I wondered if this video would come out. Many thanks Shogo, Sekei sensei and others. I know that the fights were exaggerated of course and he’s blind but I am very pleased to see it’s practical uses.

  • @madmaxiemartialartsnerd485
    @madmaxiemartialartsnerd485 8 місяців тому +1

    4:15 I honestly fully understand your excitement as a fellow martial arts nerd. There is just something otherworldly when you see an old timer dish out these moves like it's just as simple as breathing. Growing old is so taunting, your techniques are the best they will ever be, but you lack the youth to pull off their full potential.

  • @Native_love
    @Native_love 8 місяців тому +2

    WOW! This is going to get 1,000,000,000 views! Absolutely beautiful use of a technique used in hundreds of movies and animated stories. Thank you!

  • @LupusDei777
    @LupusDei777 3 місяці тому +1

    It just so happens that I had one made here in Peru, and for years I would carry it around with me undetected to protect myself and others from ruffians. This video has greatly helped me to decide to go back to practice and carrying.

  • @unrussleablejimmies4428
    @unrussleablejimmies4428 8 місяців тому

    Wow what a treat! As always please accept my thanks for covering this subject, Seki-sensei and Shogo-sama. What a wonderful display! I will practice these as well as this is one of my favorite weapons due to its unassuming nature as well as the tactics involved with using it.

  • @TheProtonSpinner
    @TheProtonSpinner 8 місяців тому +10

    Very nice lesson! I solved the saya orientation on mine by applying a row of beads with balsa wood glue on the edge side of the saya near the koiguchi. I think the most famous use of a sword cane in America would be Andrew Jackson's duel. I've observed that Western sword canes have blades that are more cruciform and were designed for stabbing, they frequently broke during combat .

    • @zaberfang
      @zaberfang 8 місяців тому

      Probably because cane swords are basically created for a short fight and assassination which requires one or two strikes to do the job. Unless of course the blade was made of tougher metal.

    • @Jamhael1
      @Jamhael1 3 місяці тому

      Have you tried to put a ring? So you can use it as the saya AND as a handguard as well.

  • @FrontLineMarine84
    @FrontLineMarine84 5 місяців тому +1

    I grew up and loved watching the old black and white Zatoichi TV show. Love this video thank you for bringing back childhood memories

  • @t3rcx
    @t3rcx 8 місяців тому +2

    Incredible! Watching the Zatoichi films was how I spent a lot of my downtime in college.
    Now let's see one with the "Hollywood ninjato" where the blade is worn on the back!

  • @amrak-8401
    @amrak-8401 7 місяців тому +1

    Always very informative and educational. Thank you, domo!🙏

  • @un.ex.pected
    @un.ex.pected 7 місяців тому +1

    Interesting, the backhand swordfighting. Rare to be seen. Such a rare master.

  • @gen3kali877
    @gen3kali877 2 місяці тому

    Seki Sensei has such a joyous attitude teaching such a serious topic. Beautiful.

  • @zathura-vu8sb
    @zathura-vu8sb 6 місяців тому +1

    I actually made something very similar. It was originally a veterans aluminium " L shape" walking stick.
    I removed the handle and gently pressed the whole stick into a oval shape. Then I adapted a katana by sharpening the back edge and replaced the handle Basically turning it in to a spear shape.
    The stick already had a brass locking spring button, so it was very functional as a walking stick. However I could also turn the handle around and slide it inside the lower part of the walking stick , which was now the sheath using the same spring locking mechanism to secure the blade.
    It was viery similar to a two handed sword or spear.
    I decided to call it "Betsy" after a bandit /mugger tried to attack me.
    I drew the weapon and he stood cold in shock.
    Then I turned it into the spear and roared like a great lion, holding the weapon high and showing my teeth. With this stance and this gleaming blade the bandit /mugger turned and ran away very quickly 😂😂. ( I bets he regret picking on a veteran "Betsy").
    Legend says he is still running 😂😂.
    I will practice these with my "jian". I have solved the problem of which way round the blade is by securing a small badge on the handle that I can feel as I use the jian .

  • @mountainwolf1
    @mountainwolf1 8 місяців тому +4

    Thank you both for teaching me the proper name of this type of sword. I always thought it was a shirasaya.

  • @BelgianWaffleIron
    @BelgianWaffleIron 8 місяців тому +10

    I appreciate this guy. He answers fun questions without taking away from the art or dedication to it. I imagine if my teacher was like this I would have gotten a lot farther.

  • @0Bagual
    @0Bagual 8 місяців тому +2

    I'm very impressed and honored to see Seki Sensei's skills. Thank you very much and God bless you.

  • @Flomo112
    @Flomo112 8 місяців тому +10

    I am an old man now and walk with a cane. I wish I could find a reasonably priced one

  • @leopoldsamsonite1750
    @leopoldsamsonite1750 8 місяців тому +1

    Outstanding. Great video.

  • @Seofthwa
    @Seofthwa 6 місяців тому

    Very cool presentation. Thank you.

  • @eriktaylor5704
    @eriktaylor5704 8 місяців тому +1

    Outstanding and the respect and honor shown Seki is commendable

  • @robertbenson5831
    @robertbenson5831 8 місяців тому +2

    It's easy to see why he is the headmaster. Thank you, Seki Sensei, for sharing your knowledge with us we are grateful.

  • @roberteckenberg1129
    @roberteckenberg1129 7 місяців тому +1

    Great Commendation to Seki Sensei who explains Zatoichis martial art and also to his fight partner who artisticly takes part of this dangerous Kata!

  • @quintork4100
    @quintork4100 7 місяців тому +1

    shintaro katsu created a wonderful,powerful style for the fantastic zatiochi chambara,great to see it used for real,rest in peace great katsu!

  • @ObservantPiratePlus
    @ObservantPiratePlus 7 місяців тому +2

    Just subbed to this channel, Shogo! Thank you for sharing it with us all! 👺⛩

  • @kaijukoopa1248
    @kaijukoopa1248 6 місяців тому

    Thank you sensei for sharing your knowledge

  • @elusiveoni
    @elusiveoni 8 місяців тому +1

    I love this channel!!! I’m so glad I found it!! I loved the movies!! Now I get to see the technique behind this cool weapon.

  • @terryloh8583
    @terryloh8583 4 місяці тому

    Amazing! It is a joy to watch such a master at work!

  • @aloga7136
    @aloga7136 8 місяців тому +4

    Yo ví Zatoichi, me encantó. Aunque no entendí muy bien el por qué era una espada recta, ni conocía su nombre.
    Me ha gustado la introducción de vuestra historia, quiero saber mas historia de aquellas épocas.
    Gracias por compartir los conocimiento, es un gran honor verles.

  • @ModernDayRenaissanceMan
    @ModernDayRenaissanceMan 6 місяців тому +2

    I'm glad people are discovering zatoichi. I learned about it a few years ago and was upset that I didn't know about it 30 years earlier

  • @PepinoTheGreat
    @PepinoTheGreat 7 місяців тому +2

    Good to see Shogo on the prowl, great material

  • @harrisquicksilver6595
    @harrisquicksilver6595 7 місяців тому +2

    I think its so wonderful that the traditions of samurai are not lost and are being kept alive by phenominal people as yourselves.

  • @socaindrasukma7272
    @socaindrasukma7272 8 місяців тому +1

    Impressive video as always 😊

  • @kdefensemartialarts8097
    @kdefensemartialarts8097 8 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for your videos.

  • @yamaguchimediaservices
    @yamaguchimediaservices 5 місяців тому

    Thank you! Please more videos about it!

  • @thomasturner4253
    @thomasturner4253 8 місяців тому

    Thanks Sensei for teaching this

  • @spinnetti
    @spinnetti 8 місяців тому +1

    Great stuff, thanks.

  • @kull3114
    @kull3114 8 місяців тому +1

    Very good channel, thank you

  • @xxCablexx
    @xxCablexx 7 місяців тому +1

    I love Zatoichi, but I also love the amazing skill of Seki Sensei

  • @SenseiEpu
    @SenseiEpu 2 місяці тому +1

    That last technique was so relaxed and quick!

  • @ashwinrajpurohit1090
    @ashwinrajpurohit1090 3 місяці тому +1

    🙏Namaste excellent so happy to see that local martial art is preserved and practiced. Appreciate sharing the tricks. Thanks from Bharat / India 🇮🇳

  • @popsmcgops6322
    @popsmcgops6322 7 місяців тому +1

    Very interesting.. Thank you!

  • @Priestbokmei1
    @Priestbokmei1 7 місяців тому

    Very good video!! Your Sensei is super skilled!

  • @warrikata
    @warrikata 8 місяців тому +1

    Wonderfully fluid motions in that kata!

  • @nataliefaust7959
    @nataliefaust7959 8 місяців тому +1

    Benjamin Franklin, a famous 18th century American statesman, had such a cane. I know they were popular in the 18th and 19th century in the UK, but they're illegal now unless dealing with the original antiques. A lovely video! ♥

  • @ivanbarnes3659
    @ivanbarnes3659 8 місяців тому +1

    Great demonstration,sensei!

  • @thetattoodmini
    @thetattoodmini 8 місяців тому +1

    Seki-sensei fights with the spirit of Zatoichi. Those are some of my favorite Japanese movies, so seeing Seki-sensei use it is amazing.

  • @markkiefer3243
    @markkiefer3243 8 місяців тому +1

    My dad introduced me to the Zatoichi movies as a teen, loved them ever since. Feels surreal seeing the sword in motion like this again.

  • @InsaneBasti
    @InsaneBasti 8 місяців тому +1

    that was cool AND informative!

  • @jw2218
    @jw2218 5 місяців тому +1

    I definitely enjoyed the video. When Zatoichi fights a samurai he holds his cane by his side, but the samurai brings his sword up over his head which to me leaves him wide open for attack. I know it’s just a TV show but it’s still great to watch.

  • @TheWarawaj
    @TheWarawaj 2 місяці тому

    I just happened upon your Channel and I have to say it is Awesome!!! Very good, thank you so much

  • @TheBroGamer14082
    @TheBroGamer14082 6 місяців тому

    I love these vids! Inspires a lot of ideas and is a fascinating subject in its own right.

  • @scottlehman9738
    @scottlehman9738 4 місяці тому

    Very cool video. Thank you.

  • @hydeseyk3924
    @hydeseyk3924 8 місяців тому +1

    Great share!

  • @actionforesight
    @actionforesight 6 місяців тому

    Love the videos, keep it going

  • @badrequest5596
    @badrequest5596 6 місяців тому +1

    it's always interesting how legislation usually incentivizes the adjustment and even creation of newer defense weapons to go around it. sword canes were very common in europe for similar reasons, you weren't allowed to carry swords by that time. an older example would also be the creation of the messer in germany. messer translates to knife, but this was not an ordinary knife. it was almost sword length (but just short enough it could be considered a butcher's knife), and was constructed in the same way as a knife, single edged, knife grip construction. since commoners weren't allowed to carry swords, the messer was created. if a guard approached a commoner and asked if he was carrying a sword, he'd just say, this is just my work knife. it was essentially a big knife with a crossguard and extra protection on the right side of the hand. and with this new defense and combat techniques were created. and even today you can see this happening in the UK. with the UK trying to make absurd knife laws that look like they're drafted while someone is sitting on the toilet, the actual criminals just exploit that and change the weapon's construction in ways it no longer fits into the definition of a controlled weapon. or just use something else that isn't banned. like kitchen knives

  • @ArmandoDiasTavares
    @ArmandoDiasTavares 8 місяців тому +1

    Congratulations to Seki Sensei from Rio de Janeiro/ Brazil.

  • @darthj_der7447
    @darthj_der7447 2 місяці тому

    Very interesting. Thank you

  • @NoLegGreg
    @NoLegGreg 7 місяців тому +1

    I love watching elder asians get complimented, they love it but cant show they love it, but cant help but show they love it, cause they deserve it, but cant acknowledge they know they deserve it....

  • @christianboddum8783
    @christianboddum8783 4 місяці тому +1

    Excellent, Seki sensei is one skilled man!!

  • @horusfalcon
    @horusfalcon 6 місяців тому +1

    Many thanks for exploring this. Seki-sensei is so very obviously having fun here, getting the chance to demonstrate a high level of skill with all weapons at hand. That is the joy of true mastery. Is there a chance you two could explore the Dotanuki? (As seen in Kozure Ookami?) From what little I might know, it's supposed to be a heavy-bladed sword that would withstand heavy use.

  • @jakubvlasak2146
    @jakubvlasak2146 8 місяців тому +2

    Thanks for explaining reverse grip naturaly ❤

  • @Renshen1957
    @Renshen1957 7 місяців тому +1

    Seki Sensei with all due respect for his mastery, reminds me of Bruce Lee’s combining different disciplines to achieve a powerful defense and attack. I could rewatch this video over and over and repeatedly marvel at the fluidity of his movements and gracefulness. A grandmaster in every sense of the word. Thank you for uploading this treasure. His insights as to the cane sword strength and weaknesses a valuable lesson. Bravo!

  • @Thulgore
    @Thulgore 8 місяців тому +1

    The actor who played Zatoichi was absolutely amazing. Some of the camera tricks used are still baffling to me. In fact everything about the movies I have seen is amazing.