Supporting Our Partners in Japan
At the Greater New York Naginata Federation (GNYNF), our practice is deeply rooted in the traditions of Japanese martial arts. To honor and preserve this heritage, we work with trusted vendors and craftspeople in Japan who produce the uniforms and equipment that make naginata practice possible.
Our naginata practice is supported by decades-long relationships with artisans and suppliers in Japan who carry forward centuries of craft knowledge. By sourcing our equipment directly from these partners, we not only ensure authenticity but also sustain the cultural traditions at the heart of naginata. Supporting these makers strengthens the bond between GNYNF and Japan while promoting responsible, sustainable practice for future generations.
Tradition Passed Forward
Many of the vendors we continue to support today are the same trusted sources that one of our co-founders, Sachiko Yamauchi-Prough Sensei, worked with for more than 20 years before she passed. By maintaining these relationships, we not only ensure the highest quality of equipment for our members, but also honor the care, trust, and tradition she cultivated in her decades of leadership.
Why this matters:
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Cultural Preservation
Naginata equipment is still made by a small number of specialized vendors in Japan, many of whom have been supporting the art for generations. By purchasing directly from these sources, we help sustain the traditional knowledge, craftsmanship, and industries that keep naginata alive.
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Authenticity & Quality
Training with equipment designed to meet All Japan Naginata Federation (AJNF) and International Naginata Federation (INF) standards ensures that our members can participate fully in seminars, examinations, and tournaments worldwide.
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Sustainability
Supporting dedicated vendors in Japan encourages the continuation of small-scale, high-quality craftsmanship rather than mass-produced alternatives. Traditional materials such as bamboo and indigo-dyed cotton are renewable, biodegradable, and environmentally responsible compared to synthetic alternatives. While overseas shipping has an environmental cost, the durability and longevity of authentic equipment reduces waste in the long run compared to lower-quality substitutes.
Our Mission & Philosophy
By maintaining these partnerships, we align with our core mission:
To preserve the cultural roots of naginata while making it accessible in the Greater New York area.
To cultivate respect for the traditions, people, and institutions that continue to protect this art.
To encourage thoughtful, sustainable practices in how we source and use our equipment.
