The Spear of Hattori Hanzo
by Brandon Alvarez

Having been fascinated with Japanese history since my youth, I decided to travel to the Shinjuku District of Tokyo, during my last trip to Japan, and pay a visit to the Seinin-ji Temple. I had heard that the favored spear of Hattori Hanzo, famed ninja and leader of the Iga-gumi, was supposedly still housed there, so I figured I'd find out if the rumor was true. Well, after paying my respects to Hanzo-sama's grave site (also on the temple grounds), I made my way into the temple proper. Immediately, I was greeted by a caretaker of the temple and after politely inquiring to him about the rumored spear, he smiled and said "Oh, Hattori spear? Yes, come please." After following him through the maze of the temple's hallways, he led me into a small, dimly-lit room, where upon a mantle rested the famous spear. He then went on to show us the Hattori family lineage scroll and let me take photos. Based on the unusual length of the blade, I was told that it may in fact be a variation of the naginata.

Should you have the opportunity, I highly recommend visiting the temple. It is also a courteous gesture to leave the temple a monetary offering upon leaving the grounds. KEEP GOING!

Buyu,
BRANDON ALVAREZ

Brandon can be reached via email at brandon@shinobiwinds.com or on the web at www.shinobiwinds.com.