The Kokusai Toyama-ryu Renmei (KTRR, AKA International Toyama-ryu Federation) is headed and founded by Obata Toshishiro, Honbucho. Obata Sensei originally came to America in 1980, licensed with the positions and responsibilities of Beikoku Honbucho (American Headquarters) for Toyama-ryu, Nakamura ryu and Battodo, and is continuing in his efforts under the KTRR.

Originally a small sub-system of sword drawing techniques created for officers of the Japanese Imperial Army, Toyama-ryu is now represented in various forms throughout the world as an independent sword art.

The Toyama-ryu "gunto soho" (military sword methodology) was created and standardized (seitei - established forms) in 1925 in response to concern that officers would not be able to effectively draw and employ their sword (gunto- military sword) should the need arise while operating in hostile environments. After WWII, the Japanese Imperial Army was disbanded, and three major lines of Toyama-ryu were adapted and taught independently - Morinaga style, Yamaguchi style, and Nakamura style. Nakamura Taizaburo Sensei was one of Obata Sensei's main sword instructors. In view of Obata Sensei's skill and dedication to the art of Toyama-ryu, upon his relocation to America, he was given the position of Chief Instructor of the USA.

Toyama-ryu Trademark in the USA

The Toyama-ryu of the Kokusai Toyama-ryu Renmei is taught as a gaiden (additional curriculum) of Shinkendo. Since the practice of Toyama-ryu only is considered insufficient, as previously stated, it can not be studied without the practice of Shinkendo. Additionally, since Toyama-ryu is trademarked in America by the KTRR, any unauthorized use of the name is prohibited.