Tenugui - Nine Circles Phoenix
Nine Circles 30th Anniversary Phoenix Tenugui featuring a striking Phoenix design and the Kanji Sossen Suihan (率先垂範), meaning “set an example worth following.” Made from lightweight, highly absorbent cotton, this traditional Japanese tenugui is ideal for Kendo, other martial arts training, and everyday use.
- Buy 4 for £5.53 £4.61 each and save 15%
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The Nine Circles Phoenix Tenugui is a traditional Japanese cotton Tenugui featuring a striking Phoenix design and the Kanji Sossen Suihan (率先垂範), meaning “set an example worth following.” Created to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Nine Circles, this Tenugui combines Japanese martial arts tradition, meaningful symbolism, and practical functionality.
A Tenugui is a traditional Japanese hand cloth made from lightweight cotton. In martial arts, Tenugui are widely used to absorb sweat during training, with Kendo practitioners commonly wearing them around the head beneath the Men. They can also be kept inside the Keikogi for quick and convenient access during demanding training sessions.
Although thin and lightweight, the cotton fabric is highly absorbent and dries quickly. The tenugui folds easily, making it ideal for carrying inside a Keikogi, training bag, or luggage. It can also be used as a hand towel, general-purpose cloth, travel towel, or everyday textile.
The Phoenix is a powerful symbol of renewal, resilience, and transformation, while Sossen Suihan (率先垂範) expresses the principle of leading by example. Together, these elements make this 30th Anniversary Tenugui particularly meaningful for martial artists who value discipline, perseverance, leadership, and the traditions of Budo.
Key Features
-Official Nine Circles 30th Anniversary Tenugui
-Traditional Japanese Tenugui design
-Featuring a Phoenix motif
-Includes Sossen Suihan (率先垂範) Kanji - Meaning “Set an example worth following”
-Lightweight and highly absorbent cotton
-Ideal for absorbing sweat during martial arts training
-Sewn edges
-Folds easily to fit inside a Keikogi or training bag
-Suitable as a hand towel, training cloth, or general-purpose cloth-
Dimensions
Length: 98 cm
Height: 35 cm
Please note that traditional tenugui are hand-cut, so precise dimensions may vary slightly.
Dispatch time: 1-2 working days (for non-customised products).
UK Delivery time: 1-3 working days (depending on delivery service type).
International Delivery time: 4-10 working days average (depending on delivery service type and destination).
All shipping times are averages and may be affected by factors beyond our control. Suggested delivery times are approximate and we cannot guarantee delivery timescales.
- Wash before first use to remove any excess dye or finishing residue.
- Machine wash or hand wash in cool or lukewarm water.
- Wash dark or brightly coloured Tenugui separately during the first few washes, as some colour bleeding may occur.
- Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Avoid high-temperature washing, which may cause slight shrinkage or affect the print.
- Smooth out wrinkles by stretching the edges while the cloth is still wet.
- Air dry naturally whenever possible. Hang or lay flat to dry.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, particularly with richly coloured or printed designs, as this may cause fading.
Important Note
This Tenugui model features sewn edges to provide additional durability and help prevent fraying.
Expect natural changes with use. Traditional tenugui can soften and develop a distinctive character over time.
| Product | Nine Circles Phoenix Tenugui |
| Type | Traditional Japanese Tenugui / Hand Cloth |
| Material | Cotton |
| Length | Approximately 98 cm |
| Height | Approximately 35 cm |
| Cut | Hand-cut; dimensions may vary slightly |
| Weight | Lightweight and easy to carry |
| Design | Sossen Suihan (率先垂範) Kanji - "Set an example worth following” |
| Primary Use | Sweat absorption during martial arts training |
| Martial Arts Use | Ideal for Kendo and suitable for other Budo disciplines |
| Additional Uses | Hand towel, training cloth, travel towel, general-purpose cloth |
| Recommended For | Kendo, Budo, martial arts training, Dojo use, travel and everyday use |
| Edge Finish | Sewn edges |