The Japanese sword is arguably the greatest edged weapon ever created. Its sharpness, grace, and awesome beauty are so woven into the fabric of Japanese culture that it assumes a near religious significance. To this day it is one of the Sanshu-shinki—the three sacred treasures that symbolize the unbroken chain of imperial rule. To the samurai who wore it as a birthright, it became his soul—the symbol of his very existence.
Though other weapon systems preceded the sword in Japan’s military history, none compare in depth and complexity with kenjutsu. Generations of swordsmen devoted their entire lives studying every conceivable variation of the weapon’s use. Not satisfied with mere variations in technique, they explored and developed the strategic and philosophical aspects of swordsmanship—penetrating to the spiritual core of conflict itself.
Ishikage Kenpō descends directly from the Tenshin-ryū—a style of kenjutsu that emerged from the Meiji era (1868-1912). By this time, the period of Japan’s unmitigated warfare had been over for some 200 years, and this was a time of prolific cross-pollination among styles and dōjō. As a result, these traditions share several influences. Also, the techniques are oriented more toward personal combat and dueling than massed, battlefield engagements.
Ishikage Kenpō fundamentals include cutting from any kamae (postures), iai (drawing and cutting in a single move), and atemi (striking vital areas with the body or handle of the sword). Suburi (solo cutting practice) and tameshigiri (test cutting) are also of great importance.
Kata and kumitachi are the primary methods of learning. Kata are formal, prearranged exercises for one or more individuals, and are done according to seitei (strict form, with no exception). Kumitachi are less formal kata for two or more people. Practitioners are allowed to experiment with changes in timing and distance, providing a closer experience of actual combat.
Most classical traditions of kenjutsu teach a complete combat art—the goal being to prepare the student for any possible situation. Though the katana is the primary weapon of the Ishikage Kenpō, use of the wakizashi (short sword), yari and naginata (pole arms), are also explored. Additionally, the system features instruction in jōjutsu (4’staff) and jūjutsu (unarmed combat).
Advanced study in Ishikage Kenpō does not allow the use of imitation swords—only an authentic, sharp katana (shinken) is acceptable for training. Bokken (wooden swords) are used extensively, but NOT for the safety of the student. They are used to prevent damage to shinken in instances where the weapons may clash. Bokken are made of dense, hard wood, and can be as dangerous as a live blade (A sword cuts bone; a bokken will shatter it). Notably, several famous swordsmen of the feudal era actually preferred the bokken for dueling.
Very quickly, the intensity, seriousness, and inherent danger prevalent in the study of kenjutsu creates an intense, dynamic and focused spirit in its deshi...
It is the development and control of that indomitable spirit that is indeed, the primary goal of Ishikage Kenpō.
Though other weapon systems preceded the sword in Japan’s military history, none compare in depth and complexity with kenjutsu. Generations of swordsmen devoted their entire lives studying every conceivable variation of the weapon’s use. Not satisfied with mere variations in technique, they explored and developed the strategic and philosophical aspects of swordsmanship—penetrating to the spiritual core of conflict itself.
Ishikage Kenpō descends directly from the Tenshin-ryū—a style of kenjutsu that emerged from the Meiji era (1868-1912). By this time, the period of Japan’s unmitigated warfare had been over for some 200 years, and this was a time of prolific cross-pollination among styles and dōjō. As a result, these traditions share several influences. Also, the techniques are oriented more toward personal combat and dueling than massed, battlefield engagements.
Ishikage Kenpō fundamentals include cutting from any kamae (postures), iai (drawing and cutting in a single move), and atemi (striking vital areas with the body or handle of the sword). Suburi (solo cutting practice) and tameshigiri (test cutting) are also of great importance.
Kata and kumitachi are the primary methods of learning. Kata are formal, prearranged exercises for one or more individuals, and are done according to seitei (strict form, with no exception). Kumitachi are less formal kata for two or more people. Practitioners are allowed to experiment with changes in timing and distance, providing a closer experience of actual combat.
Most classical traditions of kenjutsu teach a complete combat art—the goal being to prepare the student for any possible situation. Though the katana is the primary weapon of the Ishikage Kenpō, use of the wakizashi (short sword), yari and naginata (pole arms), are also explored. Additionally, the system features instruction in jōjutsu (4’staff) and jūjutsu (unarmed combat).
Advanced study in Ishikage Kenpō does not allow the use of imitation swords—only an authentic, sharp katana (shinken) is acceptable for training. Bokken (wooden swords) are used extensively, but NOT for the safety of the student. They are used to prevent damage to shinken in instances where the weapons may clash. Bokken are made of dense, hard wood, and can be as dangerous as a live blade (A sword cuts bone; a bokken will shatter it). Notably, several famous swordsmen of the feudal era actually preferred the bokken for dueling.
Very quickly, the intensity, seriousness, and inherent danger prevalent in the study of kenjutsu creates an intense, dynamic and focused spirit in its deshi...
It is the development and control of that indomitable spirit that is indeed, the primary goal of Ishikage Kenpō.
Site powered by Weebly. Managed by WebHostingPad.com