Support Hawaii’s Young Kenshi – “TAKA-TOU” Collectable Enamel Pin

In collaboration with our friends at the Waipahu Seibukan and Aiea Taiheiji Kendo Clubs, California Budogu is proud to offer these premium—and adorable—enamel pins, each designed by their club members. 

Proceeds from every purchase directly support Hawaii’s young Kenshi, helping to grow their local Kendo community and fund their journey to the Steveston Tournament in Canada. Each pin features a completely original character and story, making it not only a fun collectible, but also a meaningful way to support the next generation of Kendoka!

Meet Taka-Tou: The Blade from the Deep!

Beneath the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, in a hidden reef carved by time and tide, lived an octopus unlike any other, Takotou - the sword of the octopus. Born with eight limbs but favoring four for combat, he trained in an ancient, forgotten style of kendo with the belief that true strength came not from rage, but from restraint. His diligent training led to his Yontou style of swordsmanship, allowing him to assume the Kamae of Chudan, Gedan and Nitto, all at the same time.

Takotou was disciplined, silent, and feared among all sea creatures, he rarely spoke, choosing to express himself through the flow of his blades. His strikes were as fluid as the ocean currents, his mind as still as the seafloor. Many challenged him, none defeated him: however, victory never brought him joy. Something was missing. One stormy evening he ventured to the surface, drawn by whispers of a strange cat who practiced kendo beneath the moon. Intrigued, Takotou observed from the shadows. Night after night, he watched Nyantou train with dedication and loneliness that mirrored his own. His strikes were clumsy at times, but his heart never wavered. One night, a wild boar threatened the village near the dojo. Nyantou stood his ground, but just as he faltered, a flash from the shadows drove the beast away. Nyantou turned to see a silhouette of eight arms, four blades and unmoving eyes. Takotou had found what he was missing: a worthy bond. Since then, the two trained together in quiet understanding.

Takotou, a master of the sword, taught Nyantou the ocean's forgotten techniques. Although less refined, Nyantou fought with an unmatched spirit, imbuing within Takotou the importance of striking with heart. While Nyantou laughed more often, Takotou remained stoic, the calm anchor to the cat's emotional tide. Together, they were a silent storm: fur and suction, passion and poise. Nyantou and Takotou, a perfect balance, comrades forged in solitude and sharpened by trust.