Hontai Yoshin Ryu is recognised as an authentic ryu with a verified lineage by the Japanese goverment's Nihon Kobudo Kyokai (or the Japanese Classical Martial Arts Association, which is part of the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo Japan). Hontai Yoshin Ryu have been not only been members of this body since its establishment but were also instrumental in it's founding.
Unlike many koryu arts, Hontai Yoshin Ryu is a 'Sogo Bujutsu' art or composite art. The teachings of the ryu include both empty handed and weapons ares alongside each other.
The teachings include Jujutsu, Chobo (6' staff), Kodachi (short sword), Tanto dori (knife taking), Hanbo (3' staff), and Kenjutsu / Iaijutsu (long sword), with the core teachings of the ryu being Jujutsu, Bojutsu and Kodachi. In order to be proficient in Hontai Yoshin Ryu all of these aspects are studied.
The techniques of Hontai Yoshin Ryu use the principles of gyaku (joint locks), kuzushi (breaking balance), nage (throwing techniques), atemi (striking), taisabaki (body movement) and irimi (entering).
For more info on Hontai Yoshin Ryu visit their website, www.hontaiyoshinryu.com.
(Pictured to the left is the 19th headmaster of Hontai Yoshin Ryu, Soke INOUE Kyoichi Munenori.) |