Shinai
Handcrafted shinai, chosen with specialist guidance
KOBUDO is a martial arts equipment specialist shop in Fukuoka. From everyday practice shinai to hand-shaved premium madake models, we help you find a shinai that matches your style, grip, and balance preference.
Premium madake line
Bokuden and Bakuya
Two limited-production shinai shaved one by one from selected madake bamboo by experienced craftsmen. Because each piece is finished by hand, they cannot be mass-produced.
Buying from outside Japan? Ask about stock and shipping options before ordering. Include your country, preferred model, size, and quantity so we can check availability and what delivery options are possible.
Dobari model
Bokuden 卜伝
A dobari shinai whose balance sits near the hands, so the tip feels remarkably light and the strike snaps cleanly. Built in the traditional hand-shaving style passed down from master craftsmen.
Recommended if you prefer quick handling and a light tip feel.
¥15,000 JPY, tax included
Straight model
Bakuya 莫耶
A straight shinai whose balance is closer to a real sword. The blade feels steady through the center line, suiting orthodox, fundamentals-focused kendo.
Recommended if you value a sword-like feeling and committed, straight strikes.
¥15,000 JPY, tax included
Shinai types
Dobari or straight
Dobari (swelled grip side)
The thickest point sits near the hands, moving the balance toward the grip. The tip feels light, direction changes are quick, and many competitive players prefer this profile.
Straight (chokuto)
An even profile from grip to tip, with balance closer to a real sword. The shinai feels steady on the center line and rewards orthodox posture and full, committed strikes.
Bamboo materials
Madake, keichiku, and carbon
Madake
Japanese giant timber bamboo with dense, resilient fibers. Prized for its striking feel and durability, it is the material used for high-grade shinai such as Bokuden and Bakuya.
Keichiku
The common material for everyday practice shinai. Lighter on the budget and widely available, it is a practical choice for daily training and for growing students.
Carbon
A synthetic alternative known for durability and low maintenance. Useful for some training situations, while bamboo remains the standard feel for most practitioners.
How to buy
Visit the store, or ask us first
Visit KOBUDO in Fukuoka
Try the grip and balance in person. Staff will help you compare types and sizes at the store in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka.
Ask in English
Not in Japan, or want to prepare before visiting? Send the contact form with your location, the items you are interested in, and the quantity. KOBUDO will reply with what is possible before any payment is made.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a shinai at the store in Fukuoka?
Yes. Shinai are available at the KOBUDO store in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, and staff can help you compare types and grips in person. See the store page for hours, access, and closed days.
Do you ship shinai overseas?
Please ask through the English contact form first. Tell us your country, the items you are interested in, and the quantity, and KOBUDO will reply with what is possible before any payment is made.
Which shinai type should I choose?
It depends on your style. A dobari shinai carries its balance near the hands, so the tip feels light and quick. A straight shinai carries its balance closer to a real sword and suits orthodox, centered kendo. Tell us your height, experience, and style through the contact form and we will suggest options.
What are Bokuden and Bakuya?
Bokuden and Bakuya are KOBUDO premium madake shinai, shaved one by one by experienced craftsmen. Bokuden is a dobari model with hand-side balance, and Bakuya is a straight model with sword-like balance. Both are produced in limited numbers because they cannot be mass-produced.