Hobby manufacturer Kotobukiya will release two new models of "Ryoma Sakamoto" and "Shinsaku Takasugi" in March 2015 as the fourth in the "Samurai Chopsticks" series of chopsticks that "imitate Japanese swords. They will be priced at 1,500 yen each (tax not included).

Let's fill our bellies and elect Japan!
Let's fill our bellies and elect Japan!

The Sakamoto Ryoma model is based on his favorite sword "Mutsu Mamoru Yoshiyuki," and the tsuba is based on the "Karashishi Botan Tsubaku" that was said to be on the sword he was carrying at the time of the Terakoya incident. On the other hand, the Takasugi Shinsaku model is based on his favorite sword "Aki Province Saeki Sho Fujiwara Sadayasu" and the design of the tsuba and other details were carefully sculpted.

The Sakamoto Ryoma model is the "Karazishibotan Tsubagaki" with a different pattern on both sides.
The Sakamoto Ryoma model is the "Karazishibotan Tsubagaki" with a different pattern on both sides.

This is Takasugi Shinsaku model
This is Takasugi Shinsaku model


Each chopstick comes with a chopstick rest with the family crest on it, based on the image of a "sword stand. The Ryoma Sakamoto model has a "combination horn and bellflower" crest, while the Shinsaku Takasugi model has a "round and split rhombus" crest.

Chopstick rests with family crests are included (left: Sakamoto Ryoma, right: Takasugi Shinsaku)
Chopstick rests with family crests are included (left: Sakamoto Ryoma, right: Takasugi Shinsaku)

Would make a great Japanese souvenir!
Would make a great Japanese souvenir!

The chopsticks are approximately 230 mm long and made of AS and ABS plastic. The chopstick tips are non-slip.