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Miyako Kendogu is committed to delivering the ultimate in quality and service to every single customer, whilst at the same time always being open and honest about the origins of our products.
As we are part of the Tozando umbrella, we are able to both source the highest quality items as well as manufacturing products of our own. Next to many of our items you will see the following icons -
As you would expect, these are to indicate the country where the product was officially made. We are not ashamed, nor trying to hide the origin of any of our products, rather we would prefer our customers to know what they are buying. In general, our least expensive products tend to be made in China and Thailand, whilst the more expensive ones are generally made in Japan. These icons will hopefully serve to keep our customers informed, in a quick and easy to understand way, exactly what they are paying for.
 You will notice that some of our Bogu has the “Made in Japan” icon in their product description. These Bogu sets are made by a professional team of Bogu craftsmen, led by Mr Hirofumi ‘Hakuzan’ Tahara. Mr. Tahara has been hand-crafting Bogu for almost 40 years and he has made Bogu for countless Sensei, as well as World Champions.
 As you can see from our product pages, we offer a large amount of customizable options on our Japanese made Bogu. The reason for this is simple - we make it, here in Kyoto, and each set it crafted individually for each client. Although we have tried to incorporate as many options as possible to the online pages, if you feel there are further aspects of your Bogu that you would like to customise, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will happily discuss the possibilities of your individual requirements.
As well as our leading our team of professional craftsmen here in Kyoto, Mr. Tahara also is the officer in chief of the Tozando Co. factory in China, ensuring that the materials and products produced there are only of the finest quality.
As for our Shinai, as with a vast majority of Shinai retailers, many of our Shinai are grown and produced in China, in order for us to be able to deliver the best quality at affordable prices. You will see that our Shinai are also accompanied by the following set of icons –
 – This indicates that the Shinai is considered to be ‘Dobari’. This means that the balance of the Shinai is set towards the hands, as it is held, and is usually (though not exclusively) much wider nearer the hands than at the tip.
 – This indicates that the Shinai is considered to be ‘Koto-zukuri’. This means that the balance is distributed along the length of the Shinai, often making them feel tip-heavy. Koto-zukuri Shinai are usually a similar width near the hands, as they are at the tip.
 – This means that the Shinai is made from ‘Madake’ bamboo. Madake is a Japanese species of bamboo which is thought to be the best for making Shinai. Although Madake is a Japanese species, not all Madake Shinai are made in Japan. These days most Madake Shinai are made from Madake Bamboo that is grown in China, however, we are able to offer you the choice of both. Our standard Madake Shinai are grown and made in China, however, our ‘Genuine Japanese Madake’ models are made from Madake that is not only grown in Japan, but actually here in Kyoto.
– This means that the Shinai is made from standard bamboo. However, this does not imply sub-standard quality, as our Keichiku Shinai are all selected for their great durability and balance. Choosing a Shinai from our Keichiku range allows our customers to purchase great quality Shinai, for an affordable price.
 – This indicates that this Shinai model is available in Ladies sizes.
 – This indicates that this Shinai model is available in Men’s sizes.
 – This indicates that this Shinai model has an oval-shaped grip.
 – This indicates that this Shinai model has a larger than average grip.
 – This indicates that this Shinai is recommended for match use. ‘Jissen’ or ‘Jissen-gata’ is often a term that is applied to extreme Dobari type Shinai, due to them being highly popular for match use. However, Jissen can refer to Koto-zukuri Shinai also, and in this case would be recommended for match use for a player who generally prefers the balance of a Koto-zukuri Shinai.
Our Kendogi are sourced from the best manufacturers in the Market and they are labeled with the following icons –
 -This indicates that a Kendogi is made from a single layer. This type of Kendogi is perfect for everyday use, especially during warmer months.
 -This indicates that a Kendogi is made from 2 layers. This type of Kendogi is generally made of thicker, well made cotton and is ideal for use when you need to look your best, and for training in colder weather.
 -This indicates that a Kendogi is available in a choice of colours.
 -This indicates that a Kendogi is recommended for regular or everyday practice. Generally they are lighter and easier to care for.
 -This indicates that a Kendogi is designed for summer practice. This kind of Kendogi has become increasingly popular of recent years, and they often make use of modern fibres and technology.
 -This indicates that a Kendogi has been traditionally dyed with genuine Bushu Shoaizome. This produces the best appearance for Kendo wear, though care must be taken as the dye is not chemically fixed.
 -This indicates that a Kendogi is ideal use on ‘special occasions’, for example gradings or tournaments, or any time you need to look your best.
If you have any questions regarding any of the products we stock, please do not hesitate to email us at info@Kendo-Bogu.com
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