I really am enjoying this thread here. Maybe though I should clarify what I see as the history of Tenkara. From my understanding there is no written history because of most tenkara anglers were peasants and illiterate. If this is incorrect I am sorry please correct me. I got this as I spoke with someone very knowledgable. I also believe that they fished Tenkara because of it simplicity and ease of transport.
That said I believe that many people made their rods in varrying ways to meet what felt right to them. So why is it so wrong for us now to fish what FEELS GOOD AND COMFORTABLE as Tenkara wwithout being told we are not. In the spirit of Tenkara let us make things simple.

Cheers,
Brandon