Month: November 2014

Last week, Touken Matsumoto hosted the 6th Okinawa Token Ichi in Naha, Okinawa. I saw quite a few familiar faces which warmed my heart, and also many new ones, whom I had the pleasure of meeting for the first time.

Due to a mistake in planning, I was unable to use the same location at the time as I previously used it during the December events. This time, we were 3 weeks early, and therefore, missed the bonus season which affected us and the visitors a little. However, we got to spend some time together, which I think everyone enjoyed.

I also conducted a small lecture for a number of eager enthusiasts at the beginning of their years of studying the Japanese sword, its history and culture. I was impressed by how attentively they were listening to me, which I found most inspiring.

Okinawa was originally its own nation, known as the Ryukyu kingdom. It therefore has no history with the Japanese sword before becoming part of Japan as a nation, during the Edo period. It is therefore important to me to share the knowledge and passion for this part of our culture. I’m confident that in time the interest will become a lot bigger.

Every 6 months or so, my Czech friend comes to Japan and always takes time out of his busy schedule to come and say hello at the shop. This relationship was started 14 years ago and he is now like family to my father and I. He always seems eager to learn new things and to share news and happiness during his stay in Japan.

In the later years, he has brought some of his students to help them learn more about the traditional aspects of Japan, and we sometimes go out to eat at a nearby Sushi restaurant.

I hope that this relationship will continue for a long time and that they will continue to learn and share their knowledge.

The Dai Token Ichi 2014 has ended, and I feel both grateful and happy that it was such a success.

I would like to express my thanks to everyone that visited us, and to the kind customers that brought us snacks and little treats, as well as the customers and friends from abroad.

Last year, the weather gods sent us a Typhoon which slowed business for most of the traders. This year, however, the weather was much better and it seems so was the business for many.

I have only attended this annual event for the last 4 years, but my father has attended each one since the beginning, and said this is the best year he can remember.

Over the years, all the sword traders that attend have taken their preparations and planning further and their efforts have improved the event and its success.

In conclusion, this year can be summed up with the words success and gratitude. And, I intend to further my efforts in the coming years to ensure the event’s quality and success.