Kiseru are traditional Japanese pipes, usually consisting of a bamboo or wooden shaft with two metal ends, and used for smoking finely shredded tobacco. While they still see use by generally older smokers who prefer them, you're more likely to see them used in Japanese period pieces such as samurai films.

A few years ago, however, Numata Tea Store brought the traditional pipes back in the form of a modern and stylish e-cigarette kiseru that proved to be a big hit among those hoping to vape like a samurai.

Unfortunately due to an issue with a parts manufacturer, the sleek e-kiseru was discontinued. However, after popular demand and a successful crowdfunding campaign, Numata Tea Store has released a second version of the electronic kiseru, this time inspired by one of Japan's most famous stories and heroines.

The new E-Kiseru Tora Gozen takes its name and design from Tora Gozen, the heroine of The Tale of the Soga Brothers, a famous Japanese tale that has been featured in everything from kabuki plays to period piece films. The "Tora" in her name is the Japanese word for tiger, and thus the pipe has a sharp tiger motif.

The elongated shape of the kiseru allows it to mount multiple lithium batteries to reduce the load on the battery charge. The mouthpiece has a built-in heat unit, taking advantage of its shape. The LED light on glows dimly like fire when the user inhales.

The pipe comes with a charging station that is a callback to the bowls paired with kiseru that contain fine shredded kizami tobacco.

The Tora Gozen e-Kiseru is available from Numata Tea Store's online shop for 38,720 yen, but is currently sold out, so those hoping to pick one up may have to keep their eye on the store for a restock.