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The Term samurai swords by our common understanding most often refers to the Katana which is known as the Samurais Long sword. Samurai’s will also carry a short sword known as a Wakizashi or Shoto. Together these two swords make up the Samurais principle weaponry which is commonly reffered to as the ‘Daisho.’

The Longer sword (most usually the single edged Katana) would be used for sparring and combat whereas the shorter blade or Wakizashi would be used as a back-up weapon for stabbing and the such.

There are many other names for different types of swords according to their curve, quality and forging materials. Some of the other long swords can be refered to as Chokuto, Dotanuki or straight bladed Ninjato.

Other names for the Short swords can include Chisakatana, Kodachi and the Shikomizue which is actually a short sword that come disguised as a umbrella or walking stick
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is a Japanese Flute played from the end similar to the recorder. They can be made from bamboo, rosewood or other precious woods. The Shakuhachi was originally used by zen monks in a musical mediation called suizen.

The Shakuhachi is the original Bamboo Flute that came to Japan through Korea and China. During the Shogun period of anceint Japan, wandering Zen monks would travel across the country playing the Shakuhachi and begging for Alms. They would practice a musical mediation known as Suizen.

Within the last 20 years there has been a great resurrgance of Shakuhachi playing and craftmenship amoung the new generations both in the West and japan.

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