Katana Shopping with Professional Guidance in Kyoto

Shogo and Yushin Sensei provided an amazing experience for me. They were more than cordial, and insightful, in helping me find my katana. Or as they would say, the katana finding me! Thanks again!!!

I booked a meeting with Shogo and Yushin Sensei to discuss purchasing an authentic Japanese Katana, a lifelong dream of mine. As such, I was as nervous and excited as a wide-eyed child. As an American person, I was concerned about proper etiquette and acting appropriately in a situation I was unfamiliar with. I was aware that Katana are precious works of art that require reverence and respect. I did not want to be rude or insensitive in any way. My concerns diminished as soon as the door opened when I was met by 2 of the most welcoming and genuine people that I have known. Shogo and Yushin Sensei created a perfect blend of ceremony and levity to ensure that I could remain comfortable enough to ask uninformed questions and still be in awe of the amazing treasures that I was honored to be allowed to hold. I am very pleased with the Katana that ultimately chose me and would recommend this experience to anyone who is searching for a meaningful sword buying adventure. I do not possess the words in English or Japanese to express my gratitude. I hope very much to return soon.

Truly a one of a kind experience! Shogo San and Yushin Sensei were friendly and accommodating. They clearly have deep experience with iaido and katana use, history, collection, and preservation. Based on exchanging information before the visit, Shogo San selected five different historical katana for me to consider, and had done research on the history, manufacture, and construction of each. The experience is located in Yushin Sensei's dojo, which was easy to locate, and showcases their practice space. It's a very personal and intimate experience, and they're there to help you find the katana that's meant for you. I will say you can make the most of your experience by coming prepared. Take the time to learn some katana terminology, and what to appreciate and you'll benefit from seeing some fine historical specimens. In addition, understand the price range for historical nihonto, so you'll know what to expect. This is truly a rare opportunity to find experienced and trustworthy masters willing to share their history and culture. If you're serious about buying a katana in Japan, there's nowhere better to do it!

I've followed Shogo's YouTube channel for a few years now. This year, he started posting videos of Katanas sold via his shop. They can be purchased online and shipped to the US. The website is self explanatory and easy to navigate for purchasing historic Katanas. A few months back, I decided to give it a whirl and purchased a Katana from the site. So far, the process has been extremely smooth. Shogo answered all my questions (even the dumb ones). He is easy to work with, responds quickly via email and is always, always professional. We are planning a trip to Japan in 2026 and 2027. For both, we will spend time in Kyoto and visit the shop and share Sake/Tea in person (can't wait!!). For me, I'm hoping this is start of a great relationship; in which, I purchase a historic Katana every year via Shogo's guidance and expertise.

Shogo is very professional and knowledgeable about katanas. He’s responsive and accommodating. I reached out to him a month prior to my trip to Japan but my schedule changed and he was able to accommodate me last minute. The selection was great and the experience was amazing. They allowed me plenty of time to view the collection and answer any questions that I had. This was a personal, intimate, and meaningful experience. The master swordsman (I feel bad I forgot this name) was very kind, patient, and personable. They offered my family water and chairs for them to sit while I was making my selection. We took pictures of my selection and posted on their wall. I would love to come back and purchase another katana from Shogo on my next trip to Japan. Thank you for a memorable experience for me and my family.