This Kotozukuri Shinai has its weight and balance distributed more evenly along its length. This makes it feel slightly more tip-heavy than a regular or Dobari style Shinai, catering for players who like to take strong control of their opponent's centre line and make convincing single strikes.
Kiyomizu, literally means 'pure water', and this Shinai is named after one of Kyoto's most famous temples - Kiyomizu-dera.
Kiyomizu-dera is built high in the foothills of Otowa Mountain, and is officially a UNESCO World Heritage site. One particularly interesting feature of the wooden structure is that it contains not even a single nail.
In the Edo period it was said that if a person was to jump from the stage at Kiyomizu-dera and survive the 13 meter fall, their wish would be granted. Although this practice is now prohibited, over 230 jumps were made during the Edo period, many of which were survived.
IMPORTANT
The Consumer Product Safety Association (CPSA) in Japan specializes in the quality control of potentially dangerous consumer goods. Only quality assured products are allowed to bear the SG Mark, which meet the Japanese government standards in line with Consumer Product Safety Law. Unlike other quality assurance stickers found on Shinai, the SG Mark is not awarded from a collective group of Kendogu manufacturers and retailers, rather it is a government approved seal that ensures products have met strict legal quality standards.
As well as on Shinai, the SG Mark can be found on various products which have the potential to endanger human life - including bicycles, baby carriers, motorcycle helmets, climbing equipment and much more. For official information (PDF) about the SG Mark and the CPSA click here.
