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- lockdown-funnies | Budokan World
1960 - 2021 LOCKDOWN FUNNIES AND THE WINNER IS THE RUNNERS-UP WERE KEITH MOLYNEUX DIX FROM SA TOBY MELLOWS AND CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THOSE WHO TOOK PART - GREAT FUN ALL ROUND! Strong in hand, kind in heart © David Passmore 2021 www.budokanworld.com Website created and built by David & Katy Passmore All rights reserved in all media HOME About New Page PHILOSOPHY OF BUDO New Page THE BUDO CHARTER BUSHIDO-BUDO DOSHU - RICHARD SALMON TTHE ART OF KARATE KATA KARATE GENEALOGY STORY OF BUDOKAN ARCHIVE ZEN DESCRIPTION DOWN MEMORY LANE TAMURA NOBUYOSHI ARCHIVE 10 DAN KARATE KATA WORKSHOPS 2022 New Page New Page General ABOUT ACCREDITATION CERTIFICATION MEMBERSHIP INFO New Page New Page New Page New Page MEMORIAM General IAN CARD LINEAGE BLACK BELT REGISTER DOJO AIKIDO PRETORIA BUDOKAN HOLLAND BUDOKAN LYMINGTON General BUDOKAN SOUTHAMPTON BUDOKAN LEOMINSTER BUDOKAN RANDBURG BUDOKAN ARUNDEL KARATE - JEFFREYS BAY BUDO KARATE SA New Page KODOKWAN ZAMBIA KYUSHINDO BUDOKAN NZ LARNE NI RIO GRANDE DO SUL SEISHIN SHINSEI RESEARCH LIBRARY Search Results
- ACCREDITATION | Budokan World
ACCREDITATION This page will hold all of the information headings required for accreditation of Rank and Title. It is directed to the person or persons making the recommendation for an individual to receive a Dan Grade Rank such as a Dojo Leader or Chief Instructor. In the event that a Dojo Leader is being put forward for a Certificate of Rank, it will require the additional names of two referees acting in support of their recommendation. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF GRADE PLEASE USE THESE HEADINGS FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED NAME OF RECOMMENDER GRADE AND TITLE DISCIPLINE (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER NAME OF PROPOSED RECIPIENT OR CANDIDATE CURRENT GRADE DISCIPLINES (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER TRAINING START DATE GRADING HISTORY GRADE DATES SHODAN NIDAN SANDAN YONDAN GODAN ROKUDAN CHICHIDAN HACHIDAN RECOMMENDATION PLEASE PROVIDE ALL OF THE REASONS FOR YOUR RECOMMENDATION Consideration is given to each of the following : - grading record as above, years of continuous training, technical skill prowess, accomplishments, dedication and service, attitude, teaching and instruction, heart, values and excellence in personal character. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TITLE FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY RECOMMENDER WILL BE BUDOKAN IN ASSOCIATION WITH DOJO LEADERS NAME OF PROPOSED RECIPIENT OR CANDIDATE CURRENT TITLE DISCIPLINES (S) POSTAL ADDRESS EMAIL ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER TRAINING START DATE GRADING HISTORY GRADE DATES SHODAN NIDAN SANDAN YONDAN GODAN ROKUDAN CHICHIDAN HACHIDAN DOJO HISTORY TITLES AWARDED ACCOMPLISHMENTS RECOMMENDATION PLEASE PROVIDE ALL OF THE REASONS FOR YOUR RECOMMENDATION Titles are awarded to those who have made an outstanding personal contribution to the promotion and development of Traditional Japanese Budo, showing leadership in teaching and the maintenance of a high personal level of Budo skills over decades of continuous service.
- hakudo-glossary | Budokan World
Glossary: Teachers/Influences: NAKAYAMA HAKUDO Takazawa Toyoshi : former head of the Toyama Inn and former student of the Shin-Shintakuma Ryu Jujutsu school. He was a father figure to Hakudo. Saito Michinori : last known Shihan of Yamaguchi Ha Itto Ryu; he was Hakudo’s first sword instructor. Unfortunately little information on him survived. Hosoda Kenzo : Educator and influential sempai of Hakudo. Shindo Munen Ryu Kenjutsu Menkyo under Negishi Shingoro. Negishi Shingoro : 6th Generation Shihan of Shindo Munen Ryu Kenjutsu and Hakudo’s most influential teacher. Takano Sasaburo: Ono Ha Itto Ryu Kenjutsu Menkyo Kaiden, and a Hanshi in Kendo. He was one of Hakudo greatest sempai and confidants. Uchida Ryogoro : A contemporary of Shirashi Hanjiro. Ryogoro received Menkyo Kaiden in Haruyoshi Ha (Haruyoshi branch) of Shinto Muso Ryu and Ikkaku Ryu Torite from Hirano Kichizo Yoshinobu. He also received Menkyo Kaiden in Ono Ha Itto Ryu (from Ikuoka Heitaro), Hozoin Ryu (via the Takeda Family), and Kushin Ryu. He was the founder of Uchida Ryu Tanjojutsu. Takeda Kohachi : former Kuroda Clansmen, he was also a contemporary of Shirashi Hanjiro. He received Menkyo Kaiden in Haruyoshi branch of Shinto Muso Ryu. Kohachi died only a few years after Hakudo began training with him. Itagaki Taisuke : famous Japanese statesmen from Kochi: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itagaki_Taisuke Oe Masamichi : former Shihan of Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu and Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu, he was a former samurai of the Tosa/Yamauchi clan. Morimoto Tokumi : former samurai of the Tosa/Yamauchi clan. Tokumi received his Menkyo Kaiden in Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu from Goto Magobei Masasuke making him Oe Masamichi’s contemporary. Hosokawa Yoshimasa : former samurai of the Yamauchi clan. He was a Shihan of Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu and teacher of Hakudo. Noma Seiji :Kendo enthusiast and founder of Kodansha Publishing Ltd. He established Noma Dojo in 1925. Sasamori Junzo : educator and Hanshi in Kendo and Iaido. He received Menkyo Kaiden in Tsuguru Den and Yamashika Den (collectively together they made up Hirosaki Han Den) Ono Ha Itto Ryu, Muraku Ryu, Hirosaki Han Den Shinmuso Hayashizaki Ryu, and Chokugen Ryu. Kuroda Yasuji : famous swordsmen and Shihan of Kogagawa Kaishin Ryu, Tamiya Ryu, Shin-Shintakuma Daiken-Nichi Ryu, Tsubaki Kotengu Ryu, and Setama Oguri Ryu. He was an activist who fought for the right to practice Japanese martial arts while under American occupation. Kunii Zenya : former Maniwa Nen Ryu Shihan and revisor (disputed creator) of Kashima Shin Ryu. He was recruited by Sasamori Junzo to participate in a bout against an American soldier armed with a rifle and live bayonet. He won the match without killing the soldier. Junzo used this as evidence that weapon based martial arts were as much about preserving life as they were about taking it. The ban on martial arts in Japan was soon after lifted. Ryu-Ha or Schools Mentioned: Toyama Han Den Yamaguchi Ha Itto Ryu (): Founded by Yamaguchi Bokushinsai it was a synthesis of several styles. Most famously studied by Mugai Ryu founder Tsuji Gettan. It was a ryu or school that unfortunately fell into obscurity. Hakudo earned a Mokuroku in the style prior to leaving for Tokyo at eighteen. Upon receiving Menkyo, Inkyo in Shindo Munen Ryu Kenjutsu from Negishi Shingoro, Saito Michinori awarded Hakudo the Zukai Densho () the highest-level scroll in the school. The school died with Michinori. Shindo Munen Ryu (): Founded by Fukui Hyoemon Yoshihira was school of Kenjutsu and Iaijutsu. It became one of the most popular and wide spread martial arts schools in Japanese history. Shingoro and Hakudo’s particular version was Kanto Ha Shindo Munen Ryu: Ono Ha Itto Ryu (): Founded by Ono Tadaaki a student of legendary swordsmen Itto Ittosai, it was Ono’s version of Itto Ryu. The ryu or school was widely transmitted having countless branches all over Japan. The family line was transmitted through the ages until Yamaoka Tesshu received mastery of it. He then formed his Itto Shoden Muto Ryu, effectively ending the Ono family line. Hokushin Itto Ryu (): Founded by Chiba Shusaku Narimasa; Shusaku first learned Hokushin Muso ryu from his father and later Nakanishi Ha Itto Ryu from Asari Matashichiro Yoshinobu. He later combined the teachings by reducing the eight sets of Itto Ryu into three, while adding iaijutsu and later a naginata techniques. The style became one of the most popular styles in the country spreading across Japan. Suifu Ryu (): Founded by Tokugawa Nariaki; a synthesis of the three main sword arts of the Mito Clan (Mito Han Den): Shindo Munen Ryu, Hokushin Itto Ryu, and Togun Ryu. It was one of Nariaki’s most ambitious projects. Sasaki Masanobu was the last shihan of the system. He trained at the Tobukan along with Ozawa Jiro. After his death, Jiro attempted to resurrect the style, but failed. Shinto Muso Ryu (): Founded by Musō Gonnosuke Katsuyoshi; Gonnosuke integrated the spear, naginata, sword, and bo staff into a single versatile weapon. A Otome Ryu () of the Kuroda domain the art split into several factions. By the late Edo Period only two branches survived; the Haruyoshi and Jigyo. Both Uchida Ryogoro and Takeda Kohachi received Menkyo Kaiden in the Haruyoshi branch and taught their versions of Shinto Muso Ryu to the masses. Shirashi Hanjiro (another Kuroda retainer) received Menkyo Kaiden in the Haruyoshi branch and Mokuroku in the Jigyo branch. He later combined and re-codified the schools using the characters for divine (). His line was succeeded by Shimizu Takaji and under went even more revisions. Takaji’s Jodo() was passed to many individuals throughout the world. Uchida’s line unaffected by both Hanjiro and Takaji’s changes was passed on through his son Ryohei and student Nakayama Hakudo. Another line of the Haruyoshi branch survived though one of Hakudo’s students Matsuo Kenpu who received Menkyo Kaiden from Shirashi Tokugoro. Tosa Eishin Ryu (): is a collective reference to Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu/Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu as taught within the Yamauchi Domain. It was one of several Otome Ryu () of the Yamauchi Domain and as such meant exclusively for Yamauchi clansmen. Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu (): Founded by Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu and revised by Hasegawa Chikaranosuke Eishin. Shimomura Mōichi Sadamasa was licensed in Tosa Eishin Ryu by Yamakawa Kyūzō Yukikatsu. He (Mochi) was said to have devised several innovative changes in the school and passed them on to his students. Both Yoshimasa and (Oe) Masamichi received Menkyo Kaiden in the school and transmitted it to several people. Yoshimasa issued Menkyo Kaiden to Ueda Heitaro Chubu and Menkyo to Nakayama Hakudo. Ueda’s and a few other lines of Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu survive and are being taught today. Goto Ha Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu (): Founded by Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu and revised by Hasegawa Chikaranosuke Eishin. The style was transmitted throughout the years to Tanimura Kamenojō Takakatsu. Kamenojō passed Menkyo Kaiden onto several students including Gotō Magobei Masasuke. One of many shihan of Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu, his line became known as Goto Ha or Goto version. He had several talented students and issued Menkyo Kaiden to a few of them. Among those awarded were Oe Masamichi and Morimoto Tokumi. Toyama Ryu Gunto Soho (): was developed in 1925 was a military art devised for Japanese soldiers. It consisted of Kumitachi, Iaijutsu, Sojutsu (meant to represent a Bayonet), Happo Giri () or “Eight Methods of Cutting”, Shigeki () or Marksmanships, Tameshigiri () or “Test Cutting”, and Military Music (used for marching and cadence). Hayashizaki Hon Ryu (): Founded by Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu; it was a style passed down to Nakayama Hakudo via Hosokawa Yoshimasa. The only remaining teacher of the style is Ogawa Takeshi (current headmaster of the Yushinkan Dojo). Glossary of Terms: Shiai Geiko ()- lit: “Contest”, “practice”; it is used to express the idea of a sparing match. Kumitachi ()- lit: “Grouped swords”; is a type of paired form usually found in Japanese weapon arts. Gekiken ()- lit: “Conquering the Sword” or “Fencing“; it was the pre-cursor to modern Kendo. Often ryuor school specific, it was a practice that allowed swordsmen of particular schools to apply learned techniques or concepts in a relatively controlled environment. Unlike modern Kendo; it contained the use of several or multiple weapons, grappling, striking, and physical duress that brought students to a new level of endurance and understanding. Otome Ryu ()- lit: that “which flows but remains at home” was a ryu-ha or school that was either sponsored by or kept secret by a feudal clan. Densho ()- lit: “Written Teachings” are scrolls normally awarded to students of Japanese koryu or “Old Japanese Martial Arts”. Densho act as a both a text on martial arts and certification (having the names of the author, recipient, and date issued). Mokuroku ()- lit: “Catalog” is a type of scroll usually awarded to students after several years of dedication. The details differ from school to school, but a mokuroku consists of a (partial or complete) list of kata, fighting strategy, military strategy, esoteric or religious teachings, philosophy, or other facets of learning. Jun-Menkyo () lit: “Orderly License”; it is a scroll issued by several ryu or schools, usually prior to the Menkyo scroll. Menkyo ()- lit: “License/Permit”; differs from school to school, but is normally a scroll of high level awarded to those who have attained a profound level of skill or understanding in their respective school. Menkyo Kaiden ()- lit: License of Full-Transmission; it is a scroll that normally denotes that the receiver has attained a superior command or even mastery of their ryu or school. Inkyo ()- lit: “Certificate of Proficiency”; is a license given to those who have either finished their training or have been given permission to establish their own dojo. Inka ()- lit: “Certificate of Proficiency”; is a license given to those who have either finished their training or have been given permission to establish their own dojo. (Same as Inkyo) Shihan ()- lit: “Instructor”; is a term often misused today. A Shihan is a person who was fully licensed in their respective ryuor school and by the grace of their teachers, allowed to run or operate their own dojo or training hall. Soke ()- lit: “Head of Family”; it is a term that has been widely misused and misunderstood (especially within the last eighty years). Soke or Patriarch is the head of a family house hold. Japanese families were traditionally extremely hierarchical. Families following Confucian doctrine were divided into households based solely on ones age or importance in the family. The patriarch of the family (normally belonging to the highest house of the family) had the power to make final decisions on behalf of the entire family, issue or cut off financial support to lower households, or in extreme cases hamon () or excommunicate a family relative. It was a very powerful position. Though the principle has existed in Japanese martial systems for sometime, but it has became more or less exaggerated in the 20th and 21st century. It has become a way for a Shihan to consolidate power as well as preserve the integrity of his/her martial art. Hanshi ()- lit: “Instructor of Warriors”; it is an honorary title issued by a number of organizations in Japan. San-Dou-no-Hanshi (): was a honorary title given to those that received Hanshi in Kendo, Iaido, and Jodo from Nippon Butokukai or Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei (All Japan Kendo Federation). Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata ()- lit: “The Greater Kendo Kata of Imperial Japan” was the pre-cursor to the Nippon Kendo Kata (). Tenranjiai ()- lit: match [game] held while in the presence of the Emperor; a Tenranjiai is not just related to a martial art contest, but in any contest where the Emperor is watching. The martial art related Tenranjiai(s) occurred in 1895 and 1940. Nakayama Hakudo and Takano Sasaburo demonstrated at the Showa Tenranjiai () or the Tenranjiai of the Showa Emperor. Since that time the Tenranjiai have occurred in modern sports like baseball and more traditional sport like Sumo.
- KODOKWAN ZAMBIA | Budokan World
Introducing my son Daniel to his first lesson. A LITTLE MARTIAL ARTS HISTORY The fierceness of the Japanese warrior and his fighting arts have fascinated Westerners since the West came into contact with THEM more than 450 years ago. However it was not until the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries that Westerners actually started to practice any of the Japanese martial arts. JUJITSU was one of the first, perhaps even the very first-of these Arts to be taught in the West and it was not long before Kano Jigoro's new Art and Sport of JUDO begun rapidly to gain popularity in Japan and a number of JUJITSU practitioners, encouraged by their instructors, changed over to Kano's JUDO, which although based on older jujitsu schools basic methods was considered at the time a more "scientifically structured system". At the same time, other Western JUJITSU dojo's went their own way, incorporating Western ideas into their systems, and thus laying the foundations for some of the modern jujitsu styles seen today. Even some of the oldest dojo's in Europe were forced to change over to the more modern and popular judo, just to survive. This is what also happened to our Kodokwan dojo here in Zambia, which was formed in 1928. At the time of its formation it was the only dojo that practiced JUJITSU and then around the early 1940s our Kodokwan began to include formal judo practice in its dojo. The traditional SAMURAI JUJITSU schools of old taught not merely a defensive art, but the curricula comprised a very comprehensive range of tactics, equipping exponents to face a great variety of situations. This is in sharp contrast to the techniques used in modern day JUDO competitions, for example classical jujitsu techniques were not designed to score points, but to be effective for increasing one's chance of survival, allowing an opponent minimal opportunity to counterattack. The throws were applied in such a way that the combatant could break one or more limbs of an opponent before throwing him, usually after the opponent had been attacked with atemi or body strikes. When the opponent was flying through the air, he was suddenly jerked down in such a way that under optimal circumstances he would break his neck, or at least seriously injure his spine. There was no space for any mistake on the battle field when facing off an opponent engaged in COMBAT JUJITSU and there were no rules or prohibited techniques in battle. Samurai on the battle field engaged in "Yori Kumi-Uchi" [grappling] dressed in armor, required super-quick reflexes and the utmost self-confidence in their technique."Zanshin" was at its peak in this situation of survival, for even the slightest mistake, an off balanced posture or loss of concentration could result in death. Using Yori Kumi-Uchi was essential to effective grappling in armor, for through this the warrior developed the balance, leverage, and mobility with which both to preserve his position allowing him to then use Atemi or Kansetsu-waza to break a limb and throw his enemy to the ground, then draw his short blade and plunge it into his adversary. A special blade, "Yori-doshi", was worn on the right hip for this purpose. For obvious reasons these techniques are prohibited in the modern day sport of JUDO and even in modern JUJITSU. In JUDO, where the safety of one's partner in training or competition is a most important issue, throws such as "Ippon-seoi-nage"[one arm shoulder throw], are applied with the arm of Uke [recipient of the force) in the Junte position, for greater safety. An important characteristic of classical jujitsu is precisely that many throws are initiated with uke's arm in gyakute position . There are also some types of throws in CLASSICAL JUJITSU in which both of Uke's arms are locked in Gyakute position, making ot much more dangerous as it makes Ukemi, [defensive measures, like break-falling] more difficult, in fact when the techniques is executed correctly , ukemi becomes nearly impossible. Since the CLASSICAL MARTIAL ARTIST was not protected by rules in combat, he needed very thorough knowledge of escaping and using Ukemi to survive throws that were applied with the intention of maiming rather than scoring a point. However, one has to realize that when a throw is executed correctly, with the intention and speed to maim or even kill, Ukemi cam be very difficult. Therefore, if possible it was better to escape using many different techniques, just before being thrown, with some of these techniques being of a very extreme nature, even being prepared to sacrifice a hand or elbow or dislocate a shoulder, just to get away from being thrown, not like SPORT JUDO, where being thrown just means losing a point. Needless to say some JUJITAU RYUHA came to specialize in equipping exponents to escape throws just before the actions were initiated. In TRADITIONAL JUJITSU there was no such thing as a "prohibited move", Tactics that could be employed included were and are, - grappling (kumi) ,throw (nage), plus techniques for limiting the negative effect of a throw, restraint (osae), locking the joints(kansetsu-waza), chocking (shime- waza), attacking the vital points of the body (kyusho-waza), body strikes (atemi ), kicking (keri), thrusting (tsuki), and hitting (uchi)- I have had the honour and privilege of watching these Koryu-Ryha Sensei demonstrate their JUJITSU in Kyoto City , at the Kyoto-shi Koryu Bujitsu Enbukai [THE Kyoto City Traditional Martial Arts Demonstration Meeting), where various Koryu Bujitsu schools from all over Japan gather to demonstrate their skills. It is truly amazing to watch these old JUJITSU SENSEI throw each around, and doing ukemi on the hard pine wood floors, without Tatami mats! I even had the rare opportunity to train for a while under Sensei Arao 5th dan, of Tondabayashi, Osaka City, who at the time was over 60 years of age. SENSEI ARAO is a BUDO MASTER IN TOMIKI AIKIDO AND DAITO-RYU JUJITSU where he practiced at the Tennoji Aikikan in down town Osaka. Finally I would at this time like to also thank all the Sensei, Senpai and Kohai in Takatsuki-shi, Tondabayashi-shi Shimin Taiku-kan Budo Dojo in Osaka, for putting up with this "Zambian kara hen na no Gaijin" (strange foreigner from Zambia) for all those years. (c) Jonathan Kruger 22011 - Shihan Kodokwan Judo Jujitsu Zambia KODOKWAN DOJO ZAMBIA I started Judo and Jujitsu under my late father John Kruger 5th Dan Kodokwan Jujitsu and 2nd Judo IJF and Kancho Joe Grant Grierson 10th Dan Kodokwan Jujitsu and founder, Fr Jude McKenna 8th Dan Judo. And Hiromitsu Umino 2nd Dan Kodokan Judo and Toshinori Arao Sensei 5th Dan Aiki Jujitsu. I have been involved in Judo and Jujitsu for 35 years and spent seven years training in Osaka Japan while I worked there as a Christian missionary. I work with over a hundread students mainly from the underprivileged youth and orphans in our community here in Kitwe, Zambia Kodokwan Judo & Jujitsu Club On the banks of the Kafue River, Kitwe, Zambia PO BOX 22293, Kitwe, ZAMBIA. Africa. Jonathan Kruger, judojonathan1987@gmail.com Friar Jude McKenna 7th Dan with John Kruger 6th Dan The Kodokwan Judo Club girls Champions with Jonathan The entire club
- tenshin-history-and-lineage | Budokan World
1960 - 2021 Kancho Mamoru Miwa is the Master and Founder of the Tenshinkan Style. He is a 10th Dan Black Belt Master and holder of a Masters Degree in Kobu-Jitsu, Aiki-Jitsu and Karate. Kancho Miwa’s Grandfather was a Samurai (Emperor’s Warrior). His father also was a Shogun Samurai Guard to the Emperor until his retirement. Kancho Miwa started Martial Arts training at the age of five. Kancho Miwa trained in Aiki-do, Ju-jitsu, Goshinjitsu, Kobudo and Bushido (Ninjitsu). Kancho Mamoru Miwa is extremely proficient in kobujutsu and kenjutsu and Tenshinkan Karate puts strong emphasizes on sabaki and aikijutsu KOBUJUTSU WEAPONS Kancho Inoue Motokatsu 1918-1993. Born in Tokyo in December 1918. Inoue O’Sensei studied martial arts from when he was eight. His first teacher was Fujita Seiko Sensei the 14th headmaster of Kouga Ninja Ryu He studied Karate under Konishi Yasuhiro, founder of Shindo Shizen Ryu. O’Sensei started training with Taira Sensei at the age of 20. Taira Sensei made Inoue O’Sensei president of Ryukyu Kobujutsu Hozon Shinko Kai. O’Sensei studied Aikido under Shioda Gozo Sensei one of the most senior disciples of Grandmaster Ueshiba Mohirei The kobujutsu weapons are known as : Bo (or kon in Chinese), it is a 6 foot wooden staff the Japanese refer to it as Rokushaku Bo, (roku six, shaku is unit of measure slightly shorter than a foot, BO means wood). This implement had many uses in olden times, it could have being used to carry water (one vessel on each end of the staff) and as a walking stick, Nunchahku , two pieces of wood joined by a short string, it appears that it could have been either horse bits or flails to beat grains it became popular in the 70s with Bruce Lee. Tonfa , looks like a police baton with an handle attached at 90 degrees close to one end and they are used in pairs, Tekko look like knuckle dusters and they were made out of horse shoes, Kama a pair of short bladed sickles, Sai a pair of metal truncheons possibly another farming implement. Tinbe a small shield (35 t0 50 cm made of metal or tortoise shell or woven rattan) and Rochin a short spear. Surujin , it is a small links chain approximately 1.2 meters long and has a weight at one end of it. These were weapons developed by the people of the Ryukyu kingdom during the period of weapons embargo imposed by the Samurai cast in the prevention of further revolts in the effort of establishing peace and unifying Japan. TENSHINKAN HISTORY AND LINEAGE KARATE HISTORY KOBUJUTSU HISTORY Hanshi Hans Haupt. 8th Dan Tenshinkan Karate and World Liaison Officer under Kancho Mamoru Miwa. Hanshi Hans was a disciple of O’Sensei Inoue Motokatsu in the mid 70s and obtained 4th in Ryukyu Kobujutsu Hozon Shinko Kai. Hanshi Hans also studied Ju-Jutsu Saito Ryu and obtained the rank of 4th Dan. Hanshi Hans founded Tenshinkan Ryukyu Kobujutsu to honour Kancho Mamoru Miwa Shihan-dai Joe Bracone. 5th Dan Tenshinkan Karate and 3rd Dan Tenshinkan Ryukyu Kobujutsu trained and graded by Hanshi Hans Haupt. Before relocating to UK, he was South Africa Honbu Dojo deputy Chief Instructor, achieved many top 3 places in many national competitions. He is a keen student of goshin-jutsu and an avid practitioner of sabaki and combination techniques. KOBUJUTSU HISTORY KOBUJUTSU means “the ancient art of the weapons” and it refers to as the way of becoming skilled in the art those weapons. Ryukyu Kobujutsu is a weapons system from Okinawa. It includes the effective use of Bo, Sai, Tonfa, Nunchaku, Kama, Tekko, Tinbe and Rochin, and Surujin. Like karate, Kobujutsu training is divided into Kihon (basics), Kata (forms), and Kumite (fighting). Kobujutsu has its beginning about 700 years ago. The masters of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries were worried that the techniques and kata were being lost and made great efforts to restore and promote Ryukyu Kobujutsu. One of these masters was Shinken Taira. He compiled and authenticated 42 Weapons kata, spread across 8 weapons. KOBUJUTSU MASTERS The Ryukyu Kobujutsu appeared in history approximately 700 years ago. It is said that it was the period of heroes. With the wide spreading of Kobujutsu , many great teachers such as Soeishi, Sakugawa, Chatanyara appeared in the 17th ,18th and 19th centuries In Taisho era [around the beginning of 20th century], some masters were deeply concerned about this heritage and made great efforts to restore and promote Ryukyu Kobujutsu. Subsequently, the late master Shinken Taira, who was a disciple of master Moden Yabiku sensei, had comprehensively compiled 42 Weapon Kata which consist of eight kinds of Weapons specified previously and founded The Ryukyu Kobujutsu Hozon Shinko Kai a body for the preservation of this ancient art. All of these Kata had been taught to the late master Kancho Inoue Motokatsu who was the closest disciple of master Taira and later president of RYUKYU KOBUJUTSU HOZON SHINKO KAI.
- MEMBERSHIP INFO | Budokan World
MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION HOW BUDOKAN WORK S Budokan exists as a constituted organisation since 1970 to promote the development of traditional Japanese Budo in the UK and Europe. See Lineage Budokan is responsible for the implementation of a teaching syllabus in the various Dojo or locations, where this syllabus is taught. Budokan confers the right of recognised and appointed instructors within each of these recognised Dojo to teach this syllabus as set down by David Passmore the Founder of Budokan UK. The disciplines taught are Aikido, Iaido, Karatedo and Zen - which means editation. Prospective students come to us for a variety of reasons, and every one of them is encouraged to come to any of our dojo to meet us and see what we do. It is here at this introductory meeting, that a class can be observed and questions can be answered. We explain how we work, our fee structure, how gradings are conducted and introduce you to some of the students present, so that p rospective students can get a “feel” for how things are done. Budokan reserves the right to reject any membership application made to it and further to reserve the right to discipline any member for unacceptable behaviour, in any way it deems appropriate. We have been in existence in the UK for 52 years and have never refused an application. Anyone interested in joining Budokan is encouraged to come for a few classes of practice and training, before a decision is made to become a member. Clothing in the form of a Gi is available for these classes to those who wish to take advantage of this offer, prior to buying their own. See Equipment Classes Each class is taught in such a way, so as to appeal to both the beginner and advanced student alike. Duration Each class lasts around one and a half hours. Eating Please ensure that meals are not taken at least 2 hours before undertaking any training. Membership The full annual membership fee is £50.00 and is payable during the month of January every year. The annual membership fee or part thereof (if joining later in the year) is payable 1 month after commencing classes. Membership Entitlements Classes in Traditional Japanese Budo Events, Seminars and Workshops take place at various times and locations each year. Budokan teaching and philosophy Kyu and Dan Grading Accreditation Entitles members to be graded according to the training schedule laid down by Budokan and to receive certification accordingly. See Certification Registration and recognition of Dan Grades and Titles by Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) - in Kyoto, Japan (There is a separate charge for this) Monthly Learning Fees Training takes place in the Dojo. Learning takes place online in our Library. These fees are not based on attendance at the Dojo only - as just as much learning is taking place online now, which can be accessed at any time and this trend will continue into the future. The learning fee is therefore based on content provided for training in the Dojo, complemented by content available online, including text, audio, pictures and video, only to those who pay this fee, who will have automatic access to the Library by unique password only. These fees are due on the first day of each month, and are variable from year to year. All fees are paid initially by bank transfer and then by Monthly Standing Order or Direct Debit We pride ourselves in trying to provide the very best tuition for all of our members at all times. GRADINGS AND RECOGNITION Budokan confers its grades and ranks onto its exponents of Japanese Budo disciplines that it teaches, in much the same way as the Classical Bujutsu Menkyo system operated and still found in some Ryu in Japan today. Gradings radings do not take place as a form of a test on a given day. Budokan “gradings” take place each and every time a student comes to train in the dojo by peer review, where things like attitude, respect, loyalty, courtesy, diligence, compassion and attendance are all closely observed. Grades are awarded annually duriing the last Workshop of each year and when required at courses such as Workshops that take place throughout each year. Kyu Grades - Mudansha - All ranks below Black Belt are awarded verbally and result in the student being recognised for the progress made up to Dan Grade rank. All students start out wearing a white belt, then move up to green belt and on to brown belt in recognition of the progress being made. At the appropriate time the student will be invited to prepare for their Shodan or First Black Belt one year in advance of taking this grading. Students who have had previous experience in Budo may be asked to prepare for their Shodan or First Black Belt, if approved of by the Shihankai or Senior Dan Grade members or officers of the Dojo. In the first instance, the training schedule is applied to four elements. Zanshin – literally translated as “the observation of the opponent or situation before, during and after the execution of the technique”. Waza – the technical ability in the performance of technique. It is part of Zanshin and includes posture, stance, strength, stamina and flexibility. Aite no keiko – Partner Practice. The ability to function with a partner incorporating Zanshin and Waza. Koko no keiko – Individual Practice. The ability to express Zanshin and Waza on one’s own. In the second instance the grading considers the individual’s:- attendance record contribution to the dojo personal character Dan Grades - Yudansaha All eligible Kyu grade students are allowed to take their Black Belt Dan Grades by invitation only under the same peer review process. Budokan will only award its coveted Black Belt in Budo to those who have accomplished an advanced level in Karate, Aikido and Iaido. Budokan only provides certification for Dan Grades and these certificates are awarded once a year at the annual end of year Workshop, which takes place in early December. Black Belt or Shodan certified students will be invited to wear the hakama as part of their dojo apparel, which makes them instantly recognisable as a Dan Grade. All Dan Grades are eligible to be registered with the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in Kyoto, Japan by discipline - as recommended by Budokan. There is a charge from the DNBK for this accreditation. Further guidelines for Dan Grade holders Dan means step. So holding a 1st Dan is simply the first step along the journey. It is the base camp and not the smmit of the mountain of a lifetime dedication to training, so often depicted as just that in the West. In Japan, it is simply a step from nothing to something on the lowest rung of the Dan Grade ladder. In Japan you will need to have the rank of Godan - 5 Dan - before you are recogised as having devoted many years to training. Recmmendation is based on years of training, skill prowess, accmplishments, dedication and service, teaching and instruction and excellence in personal character. SEE ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATION . It is important that all students have the correct clothing and equipment in order to practice traditional Japanese Budo safely. Budokan adopts a "No Gi - No Training" rule. You will need a white Gi to practise - see below. You will not be allowed to practice without one. For the forst month of training Budokan can provide new members with a Gi to wear at no charge. Just let us know and we will arrange one for all new members without a Gi. After the first month, new members will be required to buy their own Gi. This equipment can be ordered through Budokan via Nine Circles - a UK based importer, who we recommend for all equipment for beginners and new students. We have a discount arrangement in place with them for our members. Please ask for further information. Click any of the three llinks below, to view the exact recommended items for all new members and beginners. CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT Aikido Gi - Intermediate 500g Sashiko Ori All these gi have been preshrunk - but on a hot wash and dryer - there is a little further shrinkage. Height Chart Feet/InchesCm Feet/InchesCm 5’ 2”1603 5’ 9”1805 5’ 4”1653.5 6’ 0”1855.5 5’ 55”1704 6’ 2”1906 5’ 7”1754.5 6’ 5”1956.5 Within the first three months all new members will need to buy a wooden sword (bokken) and staff (jo) for training purposes. Shiro Kashi White Oak Bokken 102cm Product Code Daito Includes Tsuba and Dome Shiro Kashi White Oak Jo Total length 127cm 2.5cm in diameter Product code – Jo Budokan is a member of the Nine Circles Giri discount scheme on mpst of their clothing and equipment. If yoiu are a member of Budokan and wish to benefit from discounts on offer - just email us and we will send y iou our username and passward. You can then buy direct. AFTER THE FIRST THREE YEARS MOST STUDENTS WILL WANT TO UPGRADE THEIR EQUIPMENT AND BUDOKAN WILL THEN RECOMMEND BUYING DIRECT FROM JAPAN FROM RELIABLE SOURCES KNOWN TO US.
- TREVOR HUGHES | Budokan World
TREVOR HUGHES FULL BIOGRAPHY TO FOLLOW I was very saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Trevor. I have trained with him on several occasions over the years, although I did not know him as well as more senior members of the club, he left a big impression on me. I wish to send my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. My thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Keith Molyneux and condolences from Fiona. Jan and l were very saddened to hear the news of Trevor and would like to convey our sincere condolences to his family. Mike and Jan Clapham Trevor was a hugely popular Dan Grade in Budokan and especially in Kent and Sussex. Here's why by his best friend Peter Robinson. It it is tremendous loss for me and Trevor’s family and friends that he is no longer with us. It has hit me very hard as Trevor was, and always will be, my best friend. We shared so many adventures together and it was a pleasure and an absolute privilege to have him as a friend over the years. As well as enjoying hours of training with him, I was lucky enough to enjoy his close friendship off the mat. It wasn’t obvious to most, but Trevor had a great sense of adventure and it makes me smile when I think of the things we did together. Like the time I bought an old mustard-coloured Sherpa Van with a pop-up roof, and we excitedly made plans to drive down through Africa to Cape Town! Sadly, Stan the Van wasn’t up to the trip (it only cost me £500!) and we only made it as far as south Morocco. Lots of adventures on the way though, but even Trevor’s skill with anything mechanical couldn’t sort out Stanley’s problems. We limped home, laughing and giggling all the way with Trevor sporting a hair cut which I did myself using clippers plugged into a generator we took as part of our gear. Or the time we decided to climb Snowdon, off-season, in our jeans - not having a clue about mountain climbing. We’d nearly lost our tent in the wind the night before and we were both tired from lack of sleep but, after waking ourselves up with a refreshing wash in a mountain stream, up we went, not bothering with any of the accepted routes. Disaster! We got lost near the top, spotted a path some 200 feet below us and had to inch ourselves, on our backsides, slowly down an steep rock face, clinging on to every odd tuft of grass to keep in control. We were both scared and upset but we had a laugh about it afterwards in 'Pete’s Eats' in Llanberis, which subsequently had, and may still have, a photo of Trevor washing his hair in a mountain lake. For your information, we did make it to the top that day. I could go on and on about our special times together, and when Trevor made the decision to go to Thailand, I rang him every day on my way to work. Now, when I get to Clapham Junction where I change trains, those nine minutes between 8.32 and 8.43 are completely empty and sad. Nine minutes never seemed long enough when I had to finish the call - now it’s the longest nine minutes of my working day. We shared many years of a close friendship. Trevor was always there for me - and, I’m sure, for others, too. He was great company, always ready to listen, never judgemental and a truly special person He leaves behind so many people who thought the world of him, but please let me assure you all: His journey didn’t stop at Thailand, he’s still going strong somewhere - quietly and confidently - and I know that, someday, we’ll meet up again and continue our adventures together. God Bless you Trevor and thank you for your friendship. Peter Robinson To all at Bodakan From Sam Hughes I would like to say what a lovely tribute to Dad aka Trevor it means a lot that you all have done that for him and I know that it will mean a lot to him to. He held you all in his heart and thought the world of you all and he (and myself) have some fantastic memory's from his Bodakan days that he still always talked about even going back to the old "strides" days you all played an important part of dads life and we all really appreciate this tribute. Many Thanks Sam
- TTHE ART OF KARATE KATA | Budokan World
THE ART OF KARATE KATA Aesthetics and Power Kata in Japanese simply means form and their origin can be traced back to the relationship between China and Okinawa, during the early years of trading between the two countries. Performing and practicing Kata requires the complete immersion into body, mind and spirit - as all three have to be present in embu or performance, or the essence of what kata is all about, is lost. It is the combination of a range of body movements in a variety of different directions, made up of individual techniques that become progressively more flowing, appearing effortless to the untrained eye. They include simple hand and arm movements at first until balance is achieved based upon the use of correct stances. Being in the correct stance at every moment of any kata is THE principal requirement of balance and movement from one stance to the other. Without this element in place at every turn, the very foundation of each form is absent. And by stance is meant to be not only the height and length of each one that is done - which is critical - but the relationship of one foot to the other and the angles they are placed in to achive stability in the landing and lightness of touch and bounce in preparation for the next move. A good kata practitioner will eliminate all uneccessary footwork as a basic requisite for fluidity and the smooth flow of movement. A relaxed and not stiff upright posture is critical to this flow. Eyes level - chin tucked in just enough - head balancd on the torso - shoulders level at all times - chest slightly raised - lower back hollow - allowing movment reminiscent of a matador. At an appropriate point - once balance has been achieved on two feet - kicking techniques are incorporated and take time to master in the flow of a kata as balancing moves onto one leg. The key skill here being how to return the foot to the floor and keeping the flow of the kata alive. And then the kata comes ito its own as a "dance" (the term in this context is of Chinese origin), made up of a designated number of moves, which have been handed down over time. Kime is a commonly used Japanese martial arts term, meaning "power" and/or "focus," describing the instantaneous tensing at the correct moment during a technique, where a momentary stillness is observed. It is the timing of moments like this that "make" any Kata. It is here where power and control merge and if you lose the latter, the kata disintegrates into a shambles as too much power on poor stances distorts the shape of each and every movement. It is the biggest mistake that Karateka in general make when performing kata - for in the Embu or performance, the expression of power must be contained so as to maximise the aeshthetic appeal of the Kata. The combination of this seemingly effortless flow of movement along with perfect timing and pause, creates a series of sequences which tell the "story" to be found in each kata, interspersed with moments of immense power. It can only be described as breathtakingly awesome to behold and beautiful to watch, as this explosive form of ballet appeals aesthetically as the Art of Karate Kata. Practitioners of karate kata read the various sequences and turn them into practice drills called Bunkai - the practical application of various techniques with a partner or partners - which naturally leads on to the various forms of Kumite - or sparring. But first there is the Art of the Kata to master. David Passmore Kyoshi 2008
- BUDOKAN LARNE | Budokan World
BUDOKAN DOJO LARNE RUGBY CLUB 41 Main Road GLYNN BT40 3HF SENSEI IAN BATES 3 RD DAN sandan@ian-bates.ws Mobile 07864328873 Tuesdays from 7 pm Karate Aikido and Weapons BEGINNERS WELCOME I have always tried to follow the Budo method of training and teaching following on from my early days with Budokan UK in the Dojo based in Tunbridge Wells and of course Honbu in Crowborough as was, where I remember one night the temperature dropped to – 6 and I had to be lifted off the saddle of my Motorbike and held up for a few minutes until the blood returned to my legs, Sensei Passmore commented that I must be completely mad, But! Not so, as a some weeks later I was graded to Sankyu at Northhold Dojo, Commitment was in my mind then and still is!. I first saw Karate way back in the spring of 1973 on Tonbridge Castle lawn, I was excited by what I saw that day and wanted to find out more, I was 26 at that time, having been invited to try a couple of classes, I wanted to join in the ongoing journey!. Classes at that time where held all over the place and at that time we where training in what was known as “ The Satelite Club “ also in Tunbridge Wells.. This was to be a wonderful time as the floor in those days was made from Terrazo a sort of plastic; after some 30 minutes of training with gyaku-zuki and other warm up methods, the floor became a skating rink and we would skid to a stop at the other end of the hall. We had many moves of training location and finally landed at High Rocks for quite some time where I was to be awarded my first 3 grades over a period of 1 year, I tried never to miss a class. Northolt Dojo during a seminar was to be my first major grading test with many others of the day, where I was awarded my coveted Green Belt, I thought I had arrived!, Not so there was still plenty to fill the gap in my mind, this time of training was very important to me. I did have a time of no training due to work commitments and family commitments, this meant I could not attend training for quite some time. Some years later, I got back into training with Sensei Andy Fox ( 5th Dan ) in his Dojo at Borough Green village hall where I trained for 8 years, Then the biggest slap I have ever had came visiting, During one of my own classes located in Eynsford village where I was living at that time, I suffered a serious brain bleed an Aneurism that almost killed me, fortunately for me one of my students was a nurse, she thought I had, had a heart attack and called for the ambulance, Paramedics assessed me and told them what they thought had had happened, I did not feel anything and I have to this day got a whole in my mind of around 3 weeks, Taken to Dartford hospital and assessed before being taken to Kings Hospital where I was operated on to mend the damage, I remained in Kings for a week before being taken back to Dartford hospital for a further 3 weeks for close observation and monitoring as well as help to retain balance and co-ordination again. My wife Lorna and my old mate and my own Sensei during this time Andy Fox both spent a lot of time looking after me one way and another. It took 6 months for me to get back to the man I used to be and I put my life down to all the training I had done, my level of fitness and my Spirit of Aikido that was built into my mind over the past 30+ years, never give up and fight back with a passion for your life. All this took place during the month of October in the year of 2007, Carrying on until around April of the following year, when I felt as good as new again. I have included this event as it made me more aware of how fragile life can be. Never take the next day for granted, it’s not promised!, indeed never take the next martial arts class for granted, You may not make it. Most importantly of all are the seminars that are always on offer from your Sensei’s and other Senior Club and Association members, I have taken many memories from these over the past years, Because as your age increases there are more memories of the past, than there are days in front of you. Don’t cut yourself off from these special classes and events, You will never see that day again. I also trained with Sensei David Waters now the founder of Ryusui-Ryu Martial Arts Schools, where I remained for the next 20 years until I retired from full time work at 65 in November 2010 and moved to Larne in County Antrim where I now live with my wife Lorna, her home town. I always try to get back to England during these special events to meet up with old friends and to train with many of them again, usually followed by a time of an evenings social meal and drinks a plenty!. Come and visit me for a great time in the land of beauty, we have some nice B & B places or if you choose to take up the offer of a more Up-Market Curran Court Hotel, All will give you a great “Norn Ireland” welcome, Come and enjoy a great holiday as well as the offer of coming to join me on the mat for a couple of hours during one of my classes, If I am still able to run them!. During the following spring of 2011March and April I launched my own school here in Larne from scratch in our local sports centre, using some posters I had made up and standing and inviting potential new students to join me in the Dojo with a 4 weeks introductory course, It worked out quite well for me as “ a blow in!” as we are called! An Englishman in Ulster!, The culture here is very different from what I had been used to for the past 35+ years and it took me quite sometime to get a grip of both the mind set of the Northern Ireland people and of course understanding the way they spoke, I do not have any problems now thank goodness!. I have now been here for 10 years and hope to be able to teach my arts for a few years yet and now at 75 years young and slightly over weight, I may just be able to fulfil that dream. I also hope to be able to take the planned trip home to Kent during the spring of 2021 to meet up with “Old friends & teachers for a social meal and of course a bevvie or 3 and to train with those special people I first met back in the day!, 1973 and of course to make new friends with new students I have yet to meet,”. I hope this short bio helps cement links to many of my former fellow students what ever grade you hold, as well as to encourage new and younger students to stay focused in the most exciting journey you could hope to imagine, Stay the course and build great life long friends and great memories you will be glad you did. I hope to meet some of you before I retire to the great Dojo beyond the clouds.
- BUSHIDO-BUDO | Budokan World
1960 - 2023 BUSHIDO & BUDO THE WAY OF THE WARRIOR Bushidō - (Japanese: “Way of the Warrior”) the code of conduct of the Samurai, or Bushi (warrior), class of premodern Japan THE MARTIAL WAY Budo – (Japanese: “Bu – Martial Do – the way. Martial way”) Although the name Bushidō was not used until the 16th century, the idea of the code developed during the Kamakura period (1192–1333), as did the practice of seppuku (ritual disembowelment). Since the days of the Kamakura shogunate (1185 – 1333), the "Way of the Warrior" has been an integral part of Japanese culture. The medieval Japanese military class was attracted to Zen Buddhism, because of the discipline required in its daily practice and its notion of non- attachment, which served each individual well on a practical level as they could achieve an enlightened state which eliminated suffering – the central tenet of all Buddhism. Zen monks occupied positions of political influence in both Kyoto, where the Emperor and the ruling family reigned supreme and in Kamakura, the new seat of the Shogunate, especially when Yoritomo took the title of Seii Taishogun in 1192. Eisai, was a Tendai priest who studied extensively in China and returned to Japan in 1192. He was frowned upon by the Tendai establishment and moved to Kamakura, where he won the support of the newly established Shogunate and set up temples there and in Kyoto. Eisai was generally regarded as being responsible for introducing Zen to Japan and was both politically and artistically influential. The Soto sect of Zen Buddhism was founded by Dogen Zenji with the building of the Eihei Temple in what is now the Fukui Prefecture in 1243. Dogen lost his parents at an early age and was influenced by the impermanence of things. He began to teach Zazen and its central tenet of Shikan Taza or seated meditation as the most effective road to Satori, which can mean personal enlightenment or self-realization. At that time the Minamoto family established Japan’s first military government (bakufu), headed by a hereditary leader called the Shogun. However, the supreme obligation or duty of the samurai was to his Lord, even if this might cause suffering to his parents. The extent to which duty superseded all else is perhaps best exemplified in the story of the 47 rōnin from the early 18th century. These Samurai, who had become masterless (Rōnin) after their Lord had been treacherously murdered, avenged their Lord’s death against the express instructions of the Shogun and afterward were all ordered to commit seppuku. During the Muromachi period (1336–1573) the “way of the warrior” - the Samurai Code of Conduct began to become more refined by adopting selected daily activities, alongside martial training, such as Zen (meaning meditation), ikebana, the tea ceremony, poetry such as the death poem (written by Samurai before suicidal missions or battles) and literature. The sayings of Sengoku-period retainers and warlords such as Katō Kiyomasa (1562–1611) and Nabeshima Naoshige were generally recorded or passed down to posterity around the turn of the 16th century when Japan had entered a period of relative peace. In a handbook addressed to "all Samurai, regardless of rank", Katō states "If a man does not investigate into the matter of Bushidō daily, it will be difficult for him to die a brave and manly death. Thus, it is essential to engrave this business of the warrior into one's mind well”. During the Edo (Tokugawa) period (1603–1867) Bushidō thought was infused with Confucian ethics and made into a comprehensive system that stressed obligation or duty. The Samurai was equated with the Confucian “perfect gentleman” and was taught that his essential function was to exemplify virtue to the lower classes. Obedience to authority was stressed, but duty (“Giri”) came first even if it entailed violation of law. In the mid-19th century, however, the precepts of Bushidō were made the basis of ethical training for the whole of society, with the Emperor replacing the feudal Lord, or Daimyo, as the focus of loyalty and sacrifice. The precise content of the Bushidō code varied historically as the Samurai class came under the influence of Zen Buddhist and Confucian thought, but it’s one unchanging ideal was martial spirit, including athletic and military skills as well as fearlessness toward the enemy in battle. Frugal living, kindness, honesty, and personal honour were also highly regarded, as was filial piety, respect for one's parents, elders, and ancestors. As such it contributed to the rise of Japanese nationalism following the Meiji Restoration (1868) and to the strengthening of civilian morale during the Sino-Japanese War (1937–45) and World War II. Instruction in the code was officially abandoned with Japan’s defeat in 1945. Elements of the code remain, however, in the practice of Japanese martial arts and in the sport of sumo wrestling. Bushido is often referred to as the soul of old Japan and the spirit of the new. Then consider if you would, the similarity between Bushido and Budo. Budo – (Japanese: “Bu – Martial - Do – the way - Martial Way”) As a lifestyle, Budo is known as the The Martial Way Budo philosophy has been developed over time (approximately 400 years) from the teachings of Japanese Bushido. The two concepts, Bushido and Budo, are fundamental to the study of the Japanese martial arts. In essence Bushido is the code of conduct which we, as martial arts practitioners, subscribe to whilst we learn the martial way. In my view it is impossible to practise the one without the other. Miyamoto Musashi said, “The way is in training”. When I started karate at the end of each class, we used to recite the maxims which we were expected to apply both in the in the dojo and in our everyday lives. These were Etiquette, Effort, Respect and Self Control. The study of martial arts requires both the physical aspect and the mental aspect. The training of the body and the training of the mind. To achieve mastery of a single martial art requires a lifetime of dedication and there is no avoiding the physical aspect of the training. We often say, “There is no gain without pain”. At Budokan we expect students to train both within the dojo as well as when in private at home or elsewhere. Progressive skills development is necessary for the attainment of mastery of a martial art and that is why we assess the progress a student makes progressively throughout every year. Students are taught the basics which they are expected to master before they move on to more complex techniques. …. Returning then to the maxims we recited after every class and how they apply to the study of Budo. These require each and every student to observe Dojo etiquette. For example, we always remove our shoes when entering the Dojo. We used to prepare the dojo by washing down the floors at the beginning and end of every class. We bow to each other and to the instructors. We say “please teach me” at the beginning and “thank you” to the instructor at the end of each session. We also meditate for a short time at the beginning and end of each class. The question is why is this necessary? This is an outward manifestation of an inner desire to remind ourselves, and show others outside the martial arts, that we have respect for one and another, the instructors, the dojo, ourselves, and others. One cannot avoid the physical aspect of martial arts training. You have to get on the dojo floor and sweat to achieve progress and it is essential for a student to give the maximum effort on each occasion he practises his skills. This effort is what makes martial arts training worthwhile. The benefits are, I would say self-evident. Exercise is good for one’s health, it helps to rid oneself of negative thoughts and the release of endorphins makes one mentally strong. There is no denying that the practise of martial arts can lead to situations when tempers might flare up. Practitioners must develop self-control and those who don’t soon fall below the estimation of their peers and expectations of their Teachers and Instructors. At the same time as engaging in the physical side of training students learn how to control their breathing, how to focus on what they are doing and what the opponent is doing. We are taught to analyse each technique and what its application might be. They must also engage the mind. We meditate to find a balance within our everyday lives and to rid ourselves of negative thoughts and emotions. It teaches us to focus. Having regard for the aforesaid I must return to the concept of “Giri”! Giri - pronounced ‘Gidi (as most Japanese people cannot roll the “R”’ ) is a Japanese concept roughly corresponding to duty, obligation, justice, and correct action. There is no equivalent word in the English language. It should be a very important rule for practitioners of the martial arts. This concept has attracted a great deal of interest from the rest of the world. What concerns me is how many students of Budo understand the concept of Giri and how few regulate their actions and thoughts in keeping with the concept. Giri transcends limits of right action, duty, courtesy, obligation, and right thinking - which emanate from the Eightfold Path of Buddhist philosophy. Early students of Bushido studied the ‘kashoki’. These are five scrolls with wide-ranging content, including Samurai knowledge with moral precepts, the knowledge of ordinary people, the teachings of Confucian Buddhism, Mencius and others. It contains moral precepts which explain theoretical aspects of Bushido. The fifth scroll has an important definition that was made by a Samurai and is therefore the first known description of morality in Bushido. The Bushido spirit was the Kashoki. The fifth scroll provides that “The essence of Bushidō is: do not lie, do not be insincere, do not be servile, do not be superficial, do not be greedy, do not be rude, do not be boastful, do not be arrogant, do not slander, do not be unfaithful, be on good terms with comrades, do not be overly concerned with events, show concern for one another, be compassionate, with a strong sense of duty”. Being a good Samurai takes more than merely a willingness to lay down one's life." In my view this is Giri. Over the last 100 years modern societies have encouraged their citizens to adopt a social and political doctrine of individualism and wealth creation and I believe we have lost sight of Giri. And with reference to the Kanji of Bushido and Budo (above) it may be the latter that will fade away, whilst we will continue to revere the former. Peter Bush October 2021
- BUDOKAN RANDBURG | Budokan World
THE ZEN HUT 5 MINERAAL STREET JUKSKEI PARK RANDBURG GAUTENG Disciplines KARATE KENJUTSU KOBUDO MEDITATION AND PHILOSOPHY Chief Instructor RAY STRODL 1960 - 2022 Trained at the Budokan Honbo dojo in Durban from early 1978 under Shihan Ray Ryan and achieved Shodan in 1979. Became part of the Budokan teaching team and ran classes at Pietermaritzburg, Montclair and Durban North Dojos for Shihan, before being settled at the Bluff Budokan dojo which he ran with Carol Strodl. Ray participated in Budokan and all style championships over the years, and was part of the Natal all styles team for 5 years, and became the SA Budo Ryu Grand championship in 1986. After this his focus was teaching, refereeing and administration of Karate as assistant to and then secretary for all-style associations and the Budo Ryu Style. Ray always tried to participate in all aspects of Karate but his focus and love was for Kata and weapons particularly Sai, Bo and eventually Kenjutsu. Ray was graded to Sandan at the last Blackbelt grading that Shihan Ray Ryan held in Durban on 11 November 1989. He was very involved with the administration for the Natal all-styles Karate association but after a long period involved in this aspect of sport karate prefers to focus on traditional Budo rather that sport karate, which he believes has ruined many styles as they began to focus on winning competitions rather than effective combat techniques. Ray has been a practicing Buddhist who studies and writes on philosophy, ethics and providing effective financial advice in a high-tech financial services environment. Ethics is a core area of study, his writing and teaching in the financial services industry. Ray has lived in Johannesburg since 1998, where he has run an Education and Training company which has focussed on developing financial advisers and planners since 2000. During the last few years he has been focusing on development of online learning and education. During this time in Gauteng he has trained in Tai Chi, Jeet Kun Do, Kobudo and more recently Kenjustu at the Tombukai BuJutsu dojo in Pretoria where he is focusing on Mugai Ryu. His training was interrupted by a serious illness and he is now focussed regaining strength and suppleness to be able to participate in Karate and Kenjustu for the foreseeable future