Shiro Kashi (Japanese White Oak) is great, I have been using the same 24mm x 128cm pole for full impact wood and against wood for over ten years now. Some light oil is all that is needed for longevity. The long grain and impact resistance make this a really good choice. It is reasonably flexible as well.
The All Japan Kendo federation have made a ruling that this is the ONLY type of wood they will allow for bokken (wooded sword) and Jo (wooden staff) in Jodo competitions due to safety.
THicker poles are available as well, generally in the form of a Bo.
They wood is relatively easy to come by and I know that there is a supplier in Canada that can custom make stuff or supply you with the blanks.
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As others have mentioned hickory is also very good - depending on the grade selected.
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