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The Last Ninja: Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history

ToryuMay 12, 2025

From 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu by Toryu

The Last Ninja: Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history

Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history about Fujita Seiko (藤田西湖) The Last Ninja, ninjutsu history, the 14th master of Koga-ryu (甲賀流) ninjutsu, is celebrated as Japan’s last true ninja. His autobiography, Doronron: The Last Ninja, offers a vivid account of his life, intertwining Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history with Japan’s evolving cultural and military landscape. This summary traces Seiko’s journey chronologically, from a fiery childhood to his role in wartime espionage and his post-war efforts to preserve ninjutsu.


A Rebellious Childhood and Early Influences (1899–1908)

Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history: The author
藤田西湖 Fujita Seiko “The Last Ninja”

Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history began on August 13, 1899, in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. Born Fujita Isamu, he was the second son of Morinosuke Hayata, a police detective renowned for capturing criminals like the infamous tailor Ginji. Seiko’s family had deep ties to the Tokugawa shogunate, serving as onmitsu (covert agents) for 300 years. This legacy set the stage for Seiko’s lifelong connection to ninjutsu, as his ancestors’ roles under Tokugawa Ieyasu relied heavily on espionage to maintain the shogunate’s stability.

Seiko’s childhood was marked by a fiery temperament. At six, he sought revenge for his brother’s bullying, attacking eleven older children with his father’s saber. “よし、おれが仇討ちに行つてやる” (Yoshi, ore ga adauchi ni itte yaru, “I’ll go take revenge!”), he declared, showcasing his boldness. This incident led to his temporary exile to Daiji Temple in Itsukaichi, where his rebellious streak continued. Seiko desecrated sacred statues in the temple’s Enma Hall, earning both punishment and a reputation as a troublemaker.

His early life was also shaped by tragedy. In 1905, Seiko nearly died from diphtheria, a near-death experience that left a lasting impact. His mother, Tori, revived him through sheer determination, forcing chopsticks wrapped in cotton down his throat to clear his airway. However, in 1908, on his ninth birthday, Tori succumbed to intestinal catarrh. “私は幼なごころにも悲しくて、毎日、裏山をみてはボンヤリ暮した” (Watashi wa osanagokoro ni mo kanashikute, mainichi, urayama o mite wa bonyari kurashita, “Even as a child, I was sad, spending each day staring blankly at the back mountain”), Seiko wrote, reflecting on his grief. This loss deepened his yearning for purpose, setting the stage for his immersion into ninjutsu.


Training in the Mountains and Koga-ryu Initiation (1908–1915)

The author walking on the toes
足の甲で歩き不具者を装う Feigning disability by walking on the tops of the feet

After his mother’s death, Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history took a spiritual turn. At seven, Seiko followed a group of yamabushi (mountain ascetics) into the mountains, seeking solace and adventure. For over 100 days, he lived among them, learning survival techniques like cooking rice in a buried cloth and enduring harsh conditions. This experience, though not formal ninjutsu training, honed his resilience, a trait crucial to his later mastery of Koga-ryu.

At nine, Seiko returned home, where his grandfather, Shintazaemon—the 13th Koga-ryu master—began his formal ninjutsu training. “お前は見どころがあるから、これから忍術の稽古をつけてやろうと思うが、どうだ、やる気があるか” (Omae wa midokoro ga aru kara, korekara ninjutsu no keiko o tsukete yarō to omou ga, dō da, yaruki ga aru ka, “You have potential, so I’ll train you in ninjutsu—do you have the will to do it?”), Shintazaemon asked. Seiko eagerly agreed, sealing their bond with a ceremonial 金打 kanau (clash their swords’ tsuba (guards) together to make a vow).

Seiko’s training was grueling. He practiced breathing techniques to remain undetected, attaching cotton to his lips to ensure silent respiration. He mastered tsumasaki aruki (tiptoe walking) to enhance stealth, enduring pain as he balanced on his toes for hours. He also strengthened his hands by thrusting them into sand, gravel, and clay, a practice that left his fingers bleeding but built formidable strength. These exercises were foundational to Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history, preparing him for the physical and mental demands of Koga-ryu.


A Ninja in a Modernizing Japan (1915–1930)

The author in his Ninja suit
The author dressed up as a Ninja

As Japan entered the Taishō era, Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history adapted to a changing world. In his teens, Seiko studied at universities like Waseda and Meiji but was expelled for his rebellious behavior. He eventually graduated from Nihon University’s religious studies program in 1919, balancing his education with journalism and martial arts instruction. These roles exposed him to modern ideas while keeping him rooted in ninjutsu traditions.

Seiko’s expertise in ninjutsu drew attention from military circles. He began teaching at institutions like the Army Toyama School, blending ancient ninja techniques with modern warfare. His skills in stealth, espionage, and survival made him a valuable asset, as Japan’s military ambitions grew. Seiko also explored esoteric practices, later documented in works like Shinshin no Maki – Jō, reflecting the spiritual depth of Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history.

During this period, Seiko inherited the title of 14th Koga-ryu master from his grandfather, a role that came with immense responsibility. He was one of the last keepers of a tradition that once boasted 53 Koga-ryu houses, a decline he attributed to the art’s secretive nature and rigorous demands. “忍術は、よほど克己心の強い者でなければ修業できない” (Ninjutsu wa, yohodo kokkishin no tsuyoi mono de nakereba shugyō dekinai, “Ninjutsu cannot be mastered without strong self-discipline”), he noted, highlighting why the art faded as Japan modernized.


Wartime Contributions and Disillusionment (1930–1945)

The author In China
March 1932, at Torasan. From left: Miura Makoto, Kamura Ryūjirō, the author

The Shōwa era brought Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history into the realm of warfare. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Seiko traveled to occupied territories, using his skills to open safes and decipher codes. His ninjutsu expertise made him a key operative, often flying to China on urgent missions. As World War II escalated, he taught at Nakano School, training special forces in guerrilla tactics and psychological warfare.

Seiko’s wartime contributions extended beyond combat. He inspired troops with demonstrations like rope-escaping, symbolizing resilience. “日本は今、敵のためにガンジガラメになっているけれども、技術の鍛練と精神力によっては、この通り継も抜けられる” (Nihon wa ima, teki no tame ni ganjigarame ni natte iru keredomo, gijutsu no tanren to seishinryoku ni yotte wa, kono tōri nawa mo nukerareru, “Japan is now bound by the enemy, but with technical training and mental strength, you can escape ropes like this”), he told soldiers, boosting morale amid dire circumstances.

He also developed innovations like netsuryōgan (heat-retaining pills) for soldiers and Neo-Aochin, a stimulant later misused as Hiropon. However, Seiko grew disillusioned with military leaders’ self-interest, refusing honors to maintain his independence. “私は中将の前に出れば中将と友達づきあいに話したし、大将の前に出れば大将と同格に話した” (Watashi wa chūjō no mae ni dereba chūjō to tomodachi zukiai ni hanashita shi, taishō no mae ni dereba taishō to dōkaku ni hanashita, “I spoke to a lieutenant general as a friend, and to a general as an equal”), he wrote, emphasizing his refusal to bow to hierarchy.


Post-War Preservation and Legacy (1945–1958)

Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history: 500 needles in his body
The author setting a world record of 500 tatami needles inserted to his body.

After Japan’s defeat in 1945, Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history faced new challenges. The GHQ banned martial arts, viewing them as militaristic, but Seiko used this time to preserve Japan’s traditions. He founded the Japan Martial Arts Research Institute, compiling Bujutsu Ryūmeiroku, which documented 4,420 martial arts styles, including 71 ninjutsu schools. His work ensured that Koga-ryu’s legacy would endure, even as he remained its last practitioner.

Seiko criticized the sensationalized depictions of ninjutsu in media, advocating for its scientific and spiritual depth. “忍術ほど科学的で進歩的なものはなく、しかも武芸百般を総合し、精神と肉体の練磨において、このくらい厳しいものはない” (Ninjutsu hodo kagakuteki de shinpoteki na mono wa naku, shikamo bugei hyappan o sōgō shi, seishin to nikutai no renma ni oite, kono kurai kibishii mono wa nai, “Nothing is as scientific and progressive as ninjutsu, encompassing all martial arts, with such strict mental and physical training”), he asserted, emphasizing its true nature.

In 1958, Seiko published Doronron, reflecting on his 50-year journey as a ninja. He feared ninjutsu’s extinction, noting, “わが国の正しい忍術の道統は、私を最後として絶えるものとみなければならない” (Waga kuni no tadashii ninjutsu no dōtō wa, watashi o saigo to shite taeru mono to minakereba naranai, “Our country’s true ninjutsu tradition must be seen as ending with me”). Without a successor, he aimed to leave a record for future scholars, ensuring Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history would inspire generations.


The Enduring Impact of Fujita Seiko Ninjutsu History

Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history is a bridge between Japan’s past and present. From a rebellious child to a wartime operative and post-war scholar, Seiko’s life reflects the resilience of Koga-ryu ninjutsu. His contributions—whether training soldiers, preserving martial arts, or challenging stereotypes—highlight the depth of this ancient art. Through Doronron, Seiko’s legacy endures, offering a profound glimpse into the world of Japan’s last ninja and the enduring relevance of Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history.


This above was a summarisation translated from Japanese to English from the book…

『どろんろん (Doronron)』 by 藤田西湖 Fujita Seikō

First published in September 1958 (Shōwa 33), this autobiographical work spans over 370 pages and provides a vivid and personal look into the life of Fujita Seikō, the 14th head of the Kōga-ryū school of ninjutsu. Through stories, historical accounts, and training descriptions, it captures the vanishing traditions of the shinobi, combining rigorous martial instruction with folklore and philosophical insight.

About the Author

Fujita Seikō (real name: Isamu Fujita) was born in 1898 and raised as the heir to the Kōga-ryū ninjutsu tradition. Known as the “Last Ninja,” he received his early training from his grandfather and continued his path through ascetic mountain practice and secret missions during wartime. In addition to his martial prowess, he became a widely known expert in yoga, mysticism, and traditional Japanese martial arts. He was famous for feats such as walking on the tops of his feet to impersonate the disabled, and for enduring extreme physical training. His works provide rare insights into practical ninjutsu and its survival into the modern era. He passed away in 1966.

Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history: The book "Doronron"

The post The Last Ninja: Fujita Seiko ninjutsu history appeared first on 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu.…

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Ninjutsu and Shugendo: A Shared Mystical Legacy

ToryuMarch 10, 2025

From 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu by Toryu

Ninjutsu and Shugendo: A Shared Mystical Legacy

Ninjutsu and Shugendo are two enigmatic Japanese traditions that blend martial skill with spiritual mysticism. Their roots trace back to the fall of 百済 Baekje in 663 AD, when refugees, including 姚玉虎 Chō Gyokko (Yao Yuhu), fled to Japan. Chō Gyokko, a historical figure, brought martial techniques and Taoist practices from 唐 Tō (Tang China), influencing early Ninjutsu schools like 玉虎流 Gyokko-ryu and 虎倒流 Koto-ryu. Around the same era, 役行者 En no Gyōja (En the Ascetic) established 修験道 Shugendo, a path of mountain asceticism. This article explores their shared origins and practices, featuring direct insights from 山田雄司 Yamada Yuji (Professor Yuji Yamada) and 長谷川智 Hasegawa Satoshi (Yamabushi Satoshi Hasegawa) in their original Japanese kanji.

The Baekje Influence on Ninjutsu and Shugendo

The collapse of Baekje spurred a wave of cultural exchange as exiles introduced combat skills and spiritual traditions to Japan. Figures like Chō Gyokko played a pivotal role in shaping Ninjutsu’s foundations. Meanwhile, Shugendo emerged as a unique spiritual discipline. Professor Yamada highlights a critical link between the two:

「九字護身法は元々中国の道教のもので、それが修験道で入山する時に自分の身を霊的に守護するための作法になりました。忍者も印を結んだり九字を切ったりしますが、これらは修験道由来です」
(Translation: “The nine-syllable kuji-in came from Chinese Taoist practices, adopted by Shugendo to spiritually protect oneself in the mountains, and later passed to Ninjutsu”).

This statement underscores how Baekje’s legacy influenced both traditions through shared esoteric practices.

Shared Practices: Kuji-in and Mountain Training

The 九字印 kuji-in hand seals represent a profound connection between Ninjutsu and Shugendo. In Ninjutsu, these gestures served both practical and mystical roles. Yamada explains:

「忍者が印を結ぶのは、命がけの任務に臨む際に神仏の加護を得て、自身のメンタルを安定させるという実用的な面も大きかった」
(Translation: “Ninjas used kuji-in to gain divine protection and mental stability before life-or-death missions”).

In Shugendo, the seals carried a deeper spiritual weight. Hasegawa elaborates:

「修験道は密教の影響が強いので、密教で重視される「三密(身・ロ・意)」の「身=身体」で、ある種の形を作ることで精神的な影響を起します」
(Translation: “In Shugendo, influenced by esoteric Buddhism, the ‘three secrets’—body, speech, mind—are used, with the body forming seals to create spiritual effects”).

Mountains also played a central role in both disciplines. Yamada notes:

「忍者は山中で修行を積んで、肉体的な鍛錬と同時に「何があっても大丈夫だ」という精神性を身に付ける」
(Translation: “Ninjas trained in mountains to build endurance and a resilient mindset”).

Hasegawa complements this:

「山を歩くのは感性を磨くのに重要で、どんな此細な変化も見過ごさずに察する」
(Translation: “Walking in mountains sharpens the senses, teaching one to notice subtle changes”).

These quotes reveal how kuji-in and mountain training bridged the martial and mystical aspects of Ninjutsu and Shugendo.

A Lasting Connection

The contributions of Baekje exiles like Chō Gyokko shaped Ninjutsu, while En no Gyōja forged Shugendo’s path. Despite their differences, both traditions share rituals like kuji-in and a reverence for mountain training, as evidenced by the exact words of Yamada and Hasegawa. This fusion of martial and mystical elements highlights their intertwined heritage.

References

The full article 忍者と修験道 was published in Hiden Magazine June 2022.

長谷川智 Hasegawa Satoshi, a Yamabushi and Hitotsubashi University lecturer, has studied yoga, martial arts, and bodywork for 38 years. He leads Shugendō training, teaches at Asahi Culture Center, and serves as a senior “Hone Navi” director. His works focus on physical health, mountain asceticism, and traditional training methods.

山田雄司 Yamada Yuji, born in 1967, is a professor at Mie University specializing in medieval Japanese religious history and ninja studies. A martial arts enthusiast, he has authored books on ninjutsu and ninja history. He studied at Kyoto and Tsukuba Universities and previously worked in historical research and academia.

The post Ninjutsu and Shugendo: A Shared Mystical Legacy appeared first on 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu.…

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忍の朝の儀式: Ninja Morning Rituals

adminFebruary 19, 2025

From 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu by admin

忍の朝の儀式: Ninja Morning Rituals

Ninja morning rituals are fascinating practices rooted in ancient Japanese traditions that combine physical discipline, spiritual focus, and esoteric techniques. These routines were designed to empower practitioners with clarity, strength, and divine protection, often invoking deities like 摩利支天 Marishiten, a guardian of light, prosperity, and invisibility.

Takamatsu Sensei’s Daily Discipline

In a 1966 article published in 武道春秋 (Budo Shunju Magazine) titled Shinden Shura Roppō , Takamatsu Sensei shared his daily morning ritual:

  • He went to bed by 9 PM every night.
  • At 6:30 AM, he performed a cold water massage , a practice he maintained for 40 years without fail. This contributed to his remarkable health and resilience, ensuring he never fell ill.

As a Dai-Ajari head priest in Kumano Shugendo, Takamatsu Sensei likely incorporated prayer or meditation into his routine. The title of Dai-Ajari is reserved for those who complete extreme endurance feats, such as the Ōmine Sennichikaihōgyō (one-thousand days of trekking on Mt. Ōmine) and the Shimugyō (nine days without food, water, sleep, or rest).

Hatsumi Sōke once mentioned receiving the same Mikkyō rank as Takamatsu Sensei during training at the Honbu Dojo. While unclear if he attained the title “Dai Ajari,” this highlights their shared commitment to spiritual and physical mastery.

For Shimugyō, preparation is key. Practitioners must follow precise dietary guidelines months in advance to survive the nine-day fast. Adherence to these instructions ensures survival despite the body’s typical limitations.


Kuji Goshin Hō: A Ninja Morning Rituals Routine from 1812

The 九字護身法 (Kuji Goshin Hō) , documented by Gyochi in 1812, outlines a morning ritual performed immediately after waking:

  1. Wash your hands, face, and mouth with water to purify yourself.
  2. Face north and exhale forcefully to expel 濁気 (Dakuki), or unclean spirit.
  3. Turn to face east , open your mouth, and take three deep breaths to absorb fresh, clean energy.
  4. Clack your teeth together 36 times , matching the rhythm of your relaxed pulse. This helps the spirit descend into your body and calms the mind.

Kuji Hiden: An Ancient Practice Linked to Marishiten

Another morning routine, described in 九字秘傳 (Kuji Hiden) by 宮井安泰 (Miyai Yasutai) in 1787, traces its origins back to 太公望 (Taikōbō) “Grand Duke Wang” (also known as 姜子牙 Jiang Ziya, 1128–1015 BCE), who taught the fundamentals of Kuji to his students. This practice involves facing the rising sun and performing specific hand gestures while chanting incantations:

Face the first rays of sunrise (or the eastern ridge-line in the mountains, or the horizon in flatlands).

  1. Place your left palm on your chest and extend your right hand forward, palm down. Curl your fingers as if beckoning someone and chant RIN .
  2. Place your right hand above your heart and extend your left hand forward. Lower your left hand, curl your fingers, and chant HYŌ .
  3. Turn your palms forward at chest height and chant TŌ .
  4. Move your palms to the left and right sides and chant SHA .
  5. Close your hands into fists and press them to your chest while chanting KAI .
  6. Touch both shoulders with your fingers and chant JIN .
  7. Place both palms on your hips and chant RETSU .
  8. Put both palms on your knees and chant ZAI .
  9. Raise your palms to form 斗衝 (Dozu)—a triangle shape with your thumbs and index fingers—and chant ZEN .

The Role of Marishiten in Warrior Practices

摩利支天 (Marishiten) is a revered deity in Japanese warrior culture, symbolizing light, protection, and prosperity. Warriors practiced Marishiten-hō , invoking her/his power for:

  • Invisibility in battle : To evade enemies.
  • Victory and success : By illuminating their path and guiding them.
  • Wealth and good fortune : Beyond martial contexts.

Staring at the sunrise was a symbolic act of connecting with Marishiten’s radiant energy. This practice reflects the deep spiritual connection between warriors and celestial forces, emphasizing harmony with nature and divine empowerment.

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高木折右衛門物実録 Legacy of Takagi Oriemon: Budō Shiraishi Ei Manuscripts and Takagiyōshin-ryū

Mats Hjelm "Bujinkan Toryu"January 28, 2025

From 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu by Mats Hjelm "Bujinkan Toryu"

Takagi Oriemon Shigenobu—a revered samurai of the Shiraishi domain during the Edo period and the co-founder of Takagiyōshin-ryū with his son—is immortalized through a fascinating series of manuscripts. These works, collectively referred to as Budō Shiraishi Ei (“Martial Tales of Shiraishi”), document his Musha Shugyō (warrior’s pilgrimage) and reveal an intricate web of historical, cultural, and martial growth. This article explores the development and variations of these manuscripts, uncovering how Takagi’s legacy, including the founding of Takagiyōshin-ryū, was shaped over centuries.


Overview of Budō Shiraishi Ei and Takagi Oriemon

The core narrative of Budō Shiraishi Ei revolves around Takagi’s adventures as he journeyed across Japan, honing his skills and imparting lessons. Initially penned by Mamiya Hyoemon—a retainer of the Katakura family who served as the lords of Shiraishi Castle—the manuscripts underwent numerous reproductions and expansions. Early texts focus on Takagi’s personal strength and moral character, while later versions elaborate on his philosophical teachings and broader socio-cultural themes. Takagi’s martial philosophy ultimately culminated in the founding of Takagiyōshin-ryū alongside his son, ensuring the continuity of his techniques and teachings.

Key Manuscript Variants of Budō Shiraishi Ei

Researchers have identified multiple manuscript versions, divided into two main categories: existing texts (kijutsu-bon) and newly discovered texts (shinshutsu-bon). The most notable versions include:

1. The Katakura Family Manuscript

  • Title: Budō Shiraishi Banashi
  • Format: 10 scrolls in 5 volumes
  • Key Features: The foundational text focusing on Takagi’s deeds as recounted by Mamiya Hyoemon.
  • Significance: Served as the basis for subsequent reproductions.

2. Ryukoku University Library Manuscript

  • Format: Single-volume edition
  • Copyist: Mizuno Katsuhide (associated with the Moonlight Pavilion)
  • Classification: Known as the “Hei Version” (Hei-bon).
  • Details: Features stylistic enhancements with minimal content variation.

3. Miyagi Prefectural Library Edition

  • Format: 15 scrolls in 3 volumes
  • Classification: “Otsu Version” (Otsu-bon).
  • Traits: Retains close fidelity to the Katakura family manuscript, with slight editorial refinements.

4. Newly Discovered Texts (Shinshutsu-bon)

These include significant additions to the original narrative, incorporating extensive character arcs and thematic developments:

  • Waseda University Manuscript: Features 30 volumes with front and back sections.
  • National Diet Library Version: Expanded to 45 scrolls, spanning three sections.
  • Sakata Mitsuo Library Manuscript: Comprises 50 scrolls and introduces supplemental material.

Themes and Content Evolution in Budō Shiraishi Ei

Takagi was extremely strong, he often used his strength to help people.

Takagi Oriemon Heroic Strength and Moral Integrity

The earliest versions of Budō Shiraishi Ei emphasize Takagi’s extraordinary physical prowess and his role as a compassionate leader. Stories such as lifting massive stones and assisting troubled villagers resonate with themes of chivalry and self-restraint.

Transmission of Samurai Values and the Roots of Takagiyōshin-ryū

Later texts delve into Takagi’s philosophical insights, including the teachings he passed down to his successors, such as the principle of humility embodied in the phrase “Takagi wa kaze ni taoru” (“The Takagi falls to the wind”). These teachings laid the foundation for Takagiyōshin-ryū, a martial art that emphasized adaptability, resilience, and moral discipline.

Takagi helping the 14 year old Yoshinosuke taking revenge on his fathers killer.

New Characters and Expanded Narratives

The shinshutsu-bon editions introduce dynamic subplots involving Takagi’s apprentices, like Toramatsu. These texts elevate his journey into a broader allegory for perseverance and the transmission of samurai ethics.


Research Insights into Budō Shiraishi Ei Manuscripts

Recent studies, such as those by Ogihara Daichi, provide a comparative framework for understanding the development of these manuscripts. While the kijutsu-bon editions prioritize historical fidelity, the shinshutsu-bon versions reflect the Edo period’s evolving literary tastes, incorporating dramatic embellishments to cater to a wider audience.

While resting at a Jinja in the village of Hata in Nobeoka (present day Miyagi) Takagi first meeting with Toranosuke carrying a stone to the Jinja 100 times every night to pray.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Takagi Oriemon and Takagiyōshin-ryū

The enduring appeal of Budō Shiraishi Ei lies in its dual identity: a historical record and a literary masterpiece. From the Katakura family’s archives to the expansive adaptations of the shinshutsu-bon, these manuscripts offer a window into the life of Takagi Oriemon Shigenobu and the cultural zeitgeist of Edo-period Japan. Moreover, the founding of Takagiyōshin-ryū alongside his son ensured that Takagi’s martial legacy would thrive for generations.

By tracing the evolution of these texts, we not only preserve the legacy of a remarkable samurai but also enrich our understanding of Japanese martial history and storytelling traditions.


Explore the fascinating history of Takagi Oriemon Shigenobu and the origins of Takagiyōshin-ryū by delving into the archives of Budō Shiraishi Ei. Each manuscript version provides a unique lens on this iconic figure’s life and the spirit of the times.

Eric Shahan’s translation is noted for its clarity and dedication to preserving the original intent of the manuscript. Readers appreciate the detailed explanations and the cultural context provided, which make the historical content accessible to modern audiences. The memoir offers valuable perspectives for martial artists, historians, and enthusiasts of Japanese culture, shedding light on traditional practices and the evolution of martial arts in Japan.

Overall, the book serves as a significant resource for those interested in the depth and history of Japanese martial traditions.

The post 高木折右衛門物実録 Legacy of Takagi Oriemon: Budō Shiraishi Ei Manuscripts and Takagiyōshin-ryū appeared first on 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu.…

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The Holland Taikai 1996: A Historic Bujinkan Seminar

Mats Hjelm "Bujinkan Toryu"November 27, 2024

From 武神館兜龍 Bujinkan Toryu by Mats Hjelm "Bujinkan Toryu"

In May 1996, the serene coastal town of Noordwijkerhout in the Netherlands became the epicenter of a martial arts milestone: the Holland Taikai 1996. Over three days, martial artists from across the globe gathered to train under the legendary Masaaki Hatsumi, the 34th Sōke of the Togakure-ryū and founder of the Bujinkan organization. Organized by Mariette van der Vliet, the seminar’s theme was Kukishin-ryū Kenjutsu, the art of the sword. This event was not just about techniques—it was a celebration of adaptability, survival, and the spirit of Budō.

Setting the Stage: A Journey to Mastery

The Holland Taikai 1996, Kiriage

The preparation for the Holland Taikai 1996 began long before Hatsumi Sensei arrived in the Netherlands. His teaching philosophy for the year centered on Kukishin Biken Jutsu, an intricate and profound swordsmanship tradition. In April 1996, a few weeks prior to the Taikai, Hatsumi Sensei conducted an impromptu outdoor training session in Noda, Japan. He called on a select group of students, including Arnaud Cousergue, to train in the dirt outside his home.

During this session, Hatsumi Sensei emphasized the essence of Nuki Gatana (sword drawing) and the principle that form should never restrict function. He famously said:

“When things get real, do whatever you have to stay alive. Ninpō is only about surviving. Form doesn’t matter. Everything is possible.”

This philosophy would become a cornerstone of the teachings during the Holland Taikai.

The Holland Taikai: A Three-Day Immersion

The Holland Taikai 1996, Iainuki

From May 16 to 18, 1996, Noordwijkerhout witnessed an influx of martial artists eager to learn. Hatsumi Sensei’s sessions were renowned not only for their technical depth but also for the atmosphere of camaraderie and discovery they fostered.

Day One: The Sword’s Edge

The seminar began with a focus on the foundational techniques of Kukishin-ryū Kenjutsu. Participants practiced precise Nuki Gatana movements, emphasizing timing, positioning, and adaptability. Hatsumi Sensei encouraged students to transcend rigid forms and embrace creative application.

He explained:

“Respecting the Waza as a beginner is mandatory. But as you grow, rules are made to be broken. Adjust, adapt, and survive.”

Day Two: The Dimensions of Training

The Holland Taikai 1996, Iai Jodan

Building on the first day’s principles, Hatsumi Sensei introduced the concept of three dimensions in Budō training:

  1. Nijigen no Sekai (Two-dimensional world): Techniques practiced in a linear or planar fashion.
  2. Sanjigen no Sekai (Three-dimensional world): Expanding movements to include lateral shifts and spatial awareness.
  3. Yūgen no Sekai (Invisible dimension): The psychological and intuitive aspects of combat, where movements transcend physical limitations.

Through these teachings, students began to see Kukishin Biken Jutsu as more than a martial art—it was a system of infinite possibilities.

Day Three: The Invisible Path

The Holland Taikai 1996

The final day highlighted the philosophical aspects of Budō. Hatsumi Sensei shared insights into Tama, the sphere, a central concept in Japanese martial arts representing the integration of all dimensions into a cohesive whole.

Participants left with a deeper understanding that martial arts are not confined to physical techniques but are a lifelong pursuit of balance and adaptability.

Cultural Immersion and Reflection

Hatsumi Sensei’s visit to the Netherlands extended beyond the dojo. His observations during the trip added a unique cultural dimension to the event. He reflected on the country’s maritime history, symbolized by the “Tower of Tears,” where sailors’ loved ones bid them farewell. He also remarked on the Dutch people’s prowess in sports like judo and cycling, noting the nation’s emphasis on leg strength and endurance.

In an article written after the event, Hatsumi Sensei shared:

“The Netherlands is a country of Judo, isn’t it? There is a wonderful Judoka, Mr. Heesing, who speaks passionately about Judo. The mystery of Judo lies in how a smaller person can overcome a larger one—a concept deeply rooted in respect and essence.”

Key Takeaways from the Holland Taikai

  1. Adaptability is Survival
    Hatsumi Sensei’s teachings emphasized that martial arts are not rigid but fluid. In real-life scenarios, survival depends on one’s ability to adapt and innovate beyond traditional forms.
  2. Understanding Dimensions in Training
    The progression from two-dimensional to invisible dimensions in Kukishin-ryū Kenjutsu underlined the importance of mastering fundamentals before exploring creative freedom.
  3. Cultural Exchange
    The Taikai was not only a martial arts seminar but also a bridge between Japanese and Dutch cultures, enriching participants’ perspectives on life and combat.

A Legacy That Lives On

The Holland Taikai 1996 remains a pivotal moment in the history of the Bujinkan. It demonstrated the universal appeal of Budō and its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. Hatsumi Sensei’s teachings during the seminar continue to inspire martial artists to this day, reminding them that:

“Everything is always possible.”

This philosophy, rooted in the principles of survival and adaptability, is as relevant now as it was during the Taikai.


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