About Ninjutsu
The Bujinkan (Divine Warrior House) is an international martial arts organization based on fighting tactics assimilated from the nine ryu-ha (traditions) that were born on the battlefields of feudal Japan. The influences and roots of these ryu-ha (traditions) stretch as far back as the 7th century. Today, Soke (Grand Master) Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, oversees the training of thousands of students worldwide from his Hombu Dojo located in Noda City, Japan.
The following are the nine ryu-ha (traditions) of the Bujinkan:
- Togakure Ryu Ninpo
- Gyokko Ryu Kossijutsu
- Koto Ryu Koppojutsu
- Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakken Taijutsu
- Kukinshinden Ryu Taijutsu
- Takagiyoshin Ryu Jutaijutsu
- Kumogakure Ryu Ninpo
- Gyokushin Ryu Ninpo
- Gikan Ryu Koppojutsu
*See the Nine Ryu-Ha (traditions) below for a complete descriptions.
Each Ryu-Ha (traditions) are taught collectively as the Bujinkan martial arts system. However it's important to note the unique skills, style, philosophies, and feeling of each Ryu-Ha are individually maintained and taught.
Taijutsu literally means "skill with the body" The martial art Budo Taijutsu was established by Soke Masaaki Hatsumi based on the core teachings of nine distinct ancient Japanese martial arts traditions (Kobojutsu). It emphasizes realistic reactions to real life situations. Natural, relaxed body movements (Kamae) replaces the muscle driven strikes, blocks, and kicks usually seen in most local Karate schools. Budo Taijutsu goes beyond any stylized patterns of defense and encourages students to adapt the movements and principles to their own body type. This makes Budo Taijutsu the ideal martial art for anyone of any age and any gender seeking to learn self defense for real life situations.
The essence of all martial arts strategies is self-protection and the prevention of any danger and/or dangerous situation. Practitioners of Ninjutsu learn how to manipulate an opponent's attack rhythm and body movements to facilitate an easy defense. Ninjutsu epitomizes the concept of self defense of not only the physical body, but mind and spirit as well. The way of Ninjutsu is the way of enduring, surviving, and prevailing over any situation encountered. More than just delivering strikes, (punches or kicks) it is deeper in significance than the simple out~witting of an opponent. Ninjutsu is the way of attaining that which we need while making the world a better place. The skills learned in the art of Ninjutsu is the art of prevailing.
Togakure Ryu "Hidden Door School" Oho Era (1161-1162)
Founded in the 12th century, Togakure Ryu was comprised from various martial arts skills such as kosshijutsu and kenjutsu. It's original name was Togakure Ryu Happo Biken, and today is known as Togakure Ryu which is known for incorporating tekko, shinodake, and senban nage.
Gyokko Ryu "Jewel Tiger School" Chinese Tang Dynasty (618-907)
It's said the Chinese founded this art and brought it to Japan during the 8th century. Soke Masaaki Hatsumi says that the person who brought this martial art to Japan could also be from another country other than China. Kossijutsu is said to be based on the Chinese fighting arts. "Kossijutsu" means to be able to knock down an opponent with little or no effort. It is also known as the absolute backbone of martial arts.
Koto Ryu "Tiger Knocking Down School" China & Korea (About 1512)
This art is said to be founded sometime in the 16th century by a Buddhist Monk. This Monk is believed to have brought Koppojutsu to Japan from China incorporating specific aspects from Korean arts. This particular art is known for its incorporation of hidden weapons.
Shinden Fudo Ryu "Immovable Heart School" Tensho & Karyu (1326)
This art is known for its use of "Shizen" (natural standing posture). This school uses two ways of fighting, "Dakentaijutsu & Jutaijutsu".
Kukinshinden Ryu "Nine Demons School" China & Kamakura (1180)
Founded in the 1800's, this art is known for its use of the yari, shuriken, and unarmed fighting systems. It's also known for its use of the rokushaku bo and sword and the incorporation of its use of a low fighting posture that helped them attain better balance while on a ship at sea.
Takagiyoshin Ryu " Raised Heart School" Takagi Oriemon (1600)
Founded by Takagi Oriemon Shigenobu. This art has a strong connection to Hontai Yoshin Ryu, Takeuchi Ryu, & Kukishin Ryu. This art teaches the person to remain calm and flexible.
Kumogakure Ryu "Hiding in the Clouds School" Tenmon (1532-1534)
Started by the founder of Iga Ryu Ninjutsu, this art teaches the use of the kamayan & kote uche training (sickle, spear & forearm striking). This training is similar to the use to taijutsu and evasion skills taught in Togakure Ryu.
Gyokushin Ryu "Jeweled Heart School" Iga Ryu Ninjutsu (1600)
Founded in the 1600's, this art comes from the kosshijutsu techniques and is known for its use of espionage & nawa nage techniques which have been kept secret for eight generations.
Gikan Ryu "Truth, Loyalty, & Justice School" Yeiroku Era (1558-1570)
Founded in the 1500's, this art originates from techniques out of kosshijutsu. These techniques have almost been kept in secrecy from the outside world and were usually passed down from Soke to Soke.
*The information contained in these pages are solely for informational and entertainment purposes only.