DRAWING THE SAMURAI SWORD

To the Japanese, the sword is a spiritual weapon. It possesses a particular divinity, reflecting the soul of its maker, owner, and user. Around its mystical powers has grown the centuries-old ritual and practice of Samurai swordsmanship which is still avidly practiced today as is a fascinating and intricate martial art. This unique guide unlocks all the mysteries of the ancient tradition of Iaijutsu—explaining the history and significance of the sword in Samurai culture and documenting the techniques of swordsmanship as found in no other martial arts book.

This book also teaches readers about:

• How to evaluate your Samurai sword and handle it safely

• How to wear the traditional Hakama uniform

• How to perform the Kata forms to hone your technique

• The brutal history of sword testing, and today's more humane equivalent

• The classic and exciting story of "The Forty-Seven Ronin"

• And much more!