Publications regarding Sohei, Yamato temples, Yamato....

[templar44]

I have been slowly working on a book regarding Yamato school swords. As time progresses I will be able to devote more spare time and money to the project. I have already invested approximately $24,000 into blades from the 5 schools . I tell you this only to let you know that my intentions are serious. The reason I am doing it is to produce a book in English to aid in the study of this particular field of study. I picked this area of study because I figured it would be the easiest. Just kidding. We all know how hard it is to dig up precise information reading Yamato blades. Anyway, I happen to love Yamtato swords so the book is just an extension of that passion. The lack of material for non Japanese speaking enthusiasts on any thing related to nihonto is to say the least, frustrating! Therefore I will attempt to give a little back.

What I am asking for from the membership is any help in locating the following items.

1. Thorough and detailed books on Sohei. I have those publications written by Stephen Turnbull already. Books in English if there are any would be terrific but I will attempt translating any in Japanese so long as it is worth the effort.

2. Books on the history of the original Yamato Shrines

3. Books specifically on Yamato swords in Japanese that may have gone that extra step to provide information.

4. Any thoughts on how to contact individuals running some of the major organizations in Japan i.e.;museums and perhaps shrines that would help to make them receptive to my endeavour. I do not want to travel to Japan and show up unannounced on their front door step. I can just imagine how flat my nose would be from all the doors slammed in my face. Of course they would all be slammed politely!

 

I will leave it at that for now. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated and I look forward to any responses.

Tony Martin

[John A Stuart]

Heavenly Warriors by Farris and Gates of Power by Adolphson come to mind. I do not want to disparage any author, but, beware of popular Japanese history pundits. John

[templar44]

Thank you very much John. I appreciate your time and help. I am looking on line for them now.

Tony Martin

[Brian]

You may want to try contacting Darcy Brockbank. He did the Bizen book, and was planning on the whole series. Not sure if that was abandoned, or how far he went, but he may have good info on this school.

 

Brian

[sohei]

Regarding books on Sohei; I have "The Teeth and Claws of the Buddha; Monastic Warriors and Sohei in Japanese History" by Mikael Adolphson (was associate professor of Japanese history, Harvard). Printed by the University of Hawaii Press. Worth reading if interested in that area. Mike

[templar44]

Thanks gentlemen. I have found them on line and I am ordering them directly.

Tony Martin