INSIDE THE SHINOBI TOOLBOX

NINJUTSU
INSIDE

NINJUTSU, BUJINKAN & JAPANESE MARTIAL ARTS MAGAZINE | ISSUE #2 | SUMMER 2024

Ninjutsu By Numbers

Budo Snaps

Samurai Strongholds

THE ART OF
SUIJUTSU

NAMI RYU
DOJO
EXCLUSIVE!

PAGE 34

RARE SAMURAI
LETTER DISCOVERED
PAGE 14
NINJA QUEST | 40 | SHINOBI SERIES LAUNCHES

TRAINING MANUAL + DEVELOP SUPERHUMAN EYESIGHT

 INSIDE NINJUTSU

EDITOR'S NOTE
EXPANDED SECOND ISSUE

Welcome to the second issue of Inside Ninjutsu!

We're thrilled to bring you an even bigger and
more packed edition, filled with the latest news,
captivating features, and insightful articles. Our
community is growing, and with it, our
dedication to exploring the rich world of
ninjutsu and martial arts.

In this issue, we delve into the heated online

debate surrounding Yasuke, the African samurai.
Was he truly a samurai? We examine historical
evidence to draw informed conclusions about his
intriguing role and status.

Our expansive eight-page section on Japanese

fortresses invites you to uncover the ingenious
defenses samurai constructed and guides you
through the most notable sites to visit today.

Popular features from our debut issue return,

including 'The Toolbox', where we explore the
weapons and tools wielded by ninja and samurai.
This edition also sees the return of 'Budo Snaps',
our stunning photo section, and 'The Manual', your
essential training guide. This time, we focus on
developing superhuman vision, body conditioning,
and mastering the iconic shuriken.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope

you find inspiration, knowledge, and a deeper
connection to the martial arts within these pages.

Chris EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
INSIDE NINJUTSU

24 CREDITS
Published by INSIDE NINJUTSU
All rights reserved
(C) 2024
 INSIDE NINJUTSU

CONTENTS
73
40

46 16 42

06 BUYU BULLETIN DISCLAIMER

The articles presented in this magazine
Stay informed with the latest news and stories
are intended for informational,
from the thriving ninjutsu community around
historical, and entertainment purposes
the world.
only. The authors and publishers do not
22 GET MORE STUDENTS condone or endorse any criminal acts,
and readers are encouraged to
Discover proven strategies to attract more approach the content with a
students to your martial arts club and grow responsible and ethical perspective.
your dojo's community. Prior to engaging in any physical
activity or attempting techniques
24 THE ART OF SUIJUTSU discussed in this magazine, it is
strongly advised to consult a qualified
Explore the ancient swimming techniques of medical professional or trained
the samurai and how these methods have instructor to ensure your safety and
evolved into a sophisticated modern art form. well-being.

42 SAMURAI STRONGHOLDS Readers are welcome to freely

distribute this magazine, keeping in
The ingenious defensive strategies behind mind the importance of responsible
Japanese castles. sharing and the adherence to legal and
ethical standards. The content herein is

53 TRAINING MANUAL meant to inspire curiosity, knowledge,

and appreciation for martial arts and
Elevate Your Martial Arts Skills with Inside related subjects.
Ninjutsu's Comprehensive Training Section.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 3

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News Stories Blogs

Your Stories Excited about a new book or video related

to ninjutsu? Whether it's your creation or a
recommendation, we want to feature it. Let

Wanted! us know about the latest releases that

captivate the essence of ninjutsu.

As we continue our journey through the Have you stumbled upon a historical gem
shadows, "INSIDE NINJUTSU" invites you to related to ninjutsu? Whether it's a
become an integral part of our vibrant newfound scroll, artifact, or an insightful
community. We are thrilled to announce an open discovery, share your historical revelations
call for contributions from passionate individuals with the community. Let's collectively
like you, who embody the spirit and dedication of unravel the secrets of the past.
the ninjutsu tradition.

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a

How to Contribute:
martial arts club leader, or an avid researcher,
Feel free to submit entire articles,
we welcome your stories, insights, and
accompanied by captivating pictures. Your
discoveries to grace the pages of our esteemed
contributions can cover a wide range of
publication. "INSIDE NINJUTSU" is more than just
topics—personal experiences, training
a magazine; it's a platform for the global ninjutsu
methodologies, historical insights, or any
community to share, connect, and celebrate our
other aspect that fuels your passion for
shared passion.
ninjutsu.
Share the achievements and milestones of your
martial arts club. Whether it's a recent InsideNinjutsu.com
accomplishment, a unique training approach, or
a special event, we want to showcase the diverse admin@insideninjutsu.com
and thriving ninjutsu communities around the
world.

Are you organizing a seminar or workshop? Let

the community know! Share details about your
upcoming events, imparting knowledge and skills
to fellow practitioners. It's an opportunity to
connect and enrich the ninjutsu experience for
everyone.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 7

 IRELAND
NOGUCHI
TAIKAI

WORKSHOP
MENKYO KAIDEN

SHOGUN SEASON 2

JAPAN KAWAKAMI
COURSE
The Japan Ninja Council is
offering a unique opportunity
Ishizuka Tetsuji Sensei has to learn under the esteemed
been presented with a printed guidance of Jinichi Kawakami
copy of his inaugural book, Sensei. This immersive
'Gyokko Ryu: Legacy & educational experience will
Techniques.' This milestone, cover basic martial arts and
announced via a heartfelt ninjutsu skills as transmitted in
Facebook post from Ryugi traditional scrolls like the 'Inpei
Shuppan, marks a significant Jiken No Maki'.
achievement in Ishizuka
Sensei's journey—a Training sessions will take
culmination of years of place at the historic Aekuni
dedication, study, and Jinja over the summer.
profound insights into the
Gyokko Ryu tradition.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 9

INSIDE NINJUTSU

South West
Martial Arts Show
Bristol's vibrant martial arts scene is set to
come alive this September as the South West
Martial Arts & Wellbeing Show returns with an
impressive line-up of talent and activities.

A
mong the highlights of this
eagerly anticipated event is the
addition of Inyo Dojo to the
roster, promising an
unforgettable demonstration of Bujinkan
techniques led by instructor Raj Bhakerd
and his dedicated students.

Following their successful public display at

last October's Japanese Cultural Day
hosted at the M Shed, Raj Bhakerd and his
team are gearing up to showcase the
intricacies and power of Bujinkan martial
arts at Thornbury Leisure Centre.
Attendees can expect to witness the grace,
precision, and effectiveness of these
ancient techniques firsthand, as the Inyo
Dojo contingent takes the stage to
demonstrate their mastery of the art.

However, the excitement doesn't end

there. The South West Martial Arts &
Wellbeing Show boasts an eclectic mix of
martial arts celebrities, experts, and local
clubs, ensuring there's something for
everyone.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 10

 Avengement alongside martial arts icon
Scott Adkins, Charles promises to
dazzle audiences with his dynamic
presence and impressive skills.

But the South West Martial Arts &

Wellbeing Show isn't just about star
power – it's an interactive and
immersive experience for attendees of
all ages and skill levels. From live
demonstrations and workshops to
One of the standout names on the bill autograph signings and exclusive
is none other than actor Mark Strange, interviews, the event offers a unique
renowned for his roles in blockbuster opportunity to engage with martial arts
films such as Batman Begins, in all its forms.
Avengement, and Ip Man 4. Having
played a lead role in the action-horror Mark your calendars for September 21st
flick Redcon-1, Strange brings his 2024, and get your tickets for a day
wealth of experience and on-screen filled with excitement, inspiration, and
charisma to the event. celebration of martial arts and
wellbeing.
Adding to the star-studded line-up is
stuntman and World Kickboxing
Champion, Lee Charles. With credits in
major Hollywood productions like The
Expendables 4, The Batman, and

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 11

Chris Crudelli, host of
'Mind, Body & Kiss Ass
Moves' gives a workshop
at the inaugural event
INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 13
INSIDE NINJUTSU

Rare Samurai Letter

Discovered
In a recent discovery reported by NHK News & Samurai History & Culture,
a significant artifact from Japan's medieval period has emerged: a letter
penned by the renowned Viper of Mino, Saito Dosan (1494 – May 28,
1556).

This missive, addressed (now Gifu Prefecture), of surviving letters from

to a neighboring feudal reveals his sentiments Dosan and the rarity of
lord and authenticated towards Nobunaga, references to Nobunaga
by experts, sheds new whom he had within them, making this
light on the relationship strategically married to artifact a valuable
between Dosan and his his daughter Nohime to addition to our historical
son-in-law, the forge alliances between knowledge.
legendary Sengoku their respective clans.
warlord Oda Nobunaga. Despite Nobunaga's This newly unearthed
youth and perceived letter offers a glimpse
The privately owned shortcomings, Dosan into the personal
letter, recently expresses his hope that dynamics between two
deposited at the Mito the recipient of the influential figures of
City Museum, has letter will continue to Japanese history. It
undergone rigorous support him—a serves as a poignant
examination by testament to Dosan's reminder of the
Associate Professor concern for his son-in- complexities of feudal
Murai Yuki of the law's welfare and the society and the enduring
Historiographical stability of their political bonds that shaped the
Institute of the alliance. course of events during
University of Tokyo. this tumultuous era.
According to Murai, the The significance of this
letter likely dates back discovery lies not only in
to around 1552, a pivotal its rarity but also in its
period in Japanese implications for our
history marked by understanding of
political intrigue and medieval Japanese
shifting alliances. politics and familial
relationships. Associate
Dosan's letter, written Professor Murai
during his rule over emphasizes the scarcity
central Mino Province

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 14

BUJINKAN NEWS 2024

The Next
Chapter: Sean
Askew's New
Endeavors
Photo: Antonio Rodriguez

Renowned Bujinkan teacher and

researcher Sean Askew is not one
to rest on his laurels. With a rich
history of training under Hatsumi
Sensei and the Bujinkan Shihan
during his decade-long residence
in Japan, Askew has become a
prominent figure in the martial arts
community. Now, he's gearing up
for some exciting new projects
that promise to deepen our
understanding of ancient martial
traditions.

A graduate of Sophia University

with a degree in Japanese
Language & History, Askew brings
both academic rigor and practical
experience to his work. His latest
collaboration with fellow Bujinkan
instructor Alex Esteve involves the
creation of a groundbreaking book
on Koto Ryu. Set to be released in
February/March 2025, this book
will offer unprecedented insights
into this ancient martial arts
tradition, including previously
unreleased material and a detailed
exploration of the life and
teachings of Noguchi Sensei, the
current head of the school.

But that's not all. Askew is also hard at work on a follow-up to his acclaimed book, Hidden Lineage, which
delves into the hidden history of the Bujinkan. Additionally, he's undertaking the formidable task of
translating a rare Japanese military text dating back to the 1770s. This nearly 300-page encyclopedia,
focusing on the martial arts of Natori Ryu, is a treasure trove of knowledge with only three known copies
in existence. Of particular interest is a section known as the Shinobi no maki, or ninja scroll, offering
invaluable insights into the secretive world of the ninja.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 15

CLUB PROFILE

Nami Ryu Dojo: A

Legacy of Martial
Mastery in Dublin
Under the guidance of
seasoned instructor Alex
Meehan, students delve into
nine ancient martial
traditions, gaining insights
into the deep cultural
heritage and rigorous
training that define this
unique practice. Learn about
the club's history, the
profound journey of its
instructor, and the vibrant
community that brings these
timeless arts to life.

Japanese calligraphy, inked with graceful Gyokko Ryu, Koto Ryu, Togakure Ryu, arts community in Dublin during the 1990s.
strokes, adorns the walls. Adjacent, diplomas Kukishinden Ryu, Takagi Yoshin Ryu, Shinden
hang with quiet pride, each bearing the Fudo Ryu, Gikan Ryu, Kumogakure Ryu, and Alex's dedication led him to Japan in 2000,
revered signature of the grandmaster. Gyokushin Ryu. The dojo, now in its 26th year, where he has since made over 50 visits,
Wooden swords and razor-sharp blades, continues to impart these age-old disciplines training extensively with Hatsumi Sensei,
meticulously crafted and displayed in custom to new generations of martial artists. Noguchi Yukio Sensei, and Nagato Toshiro
stands, speak of an age-old art steeped in Sensei. His primary mentor, Someya Sensei,
precision and respect. A vast window bathes Alex Meehan, the dedicated instructor at has been instrumental in deepening Alex's
the dojo in natural light, casting a soft, golden Nami Ryu Dojo, is a seasoned martial artist understanding of the ryuha and the intricate
hue over the tatami mats where students with a profound connection to the Bujinkan weapons of the Bujinkan. This deep reservoir
move with practiced grace, embodying the arts. "I'm one of the second generation of of knowledge extends to Japanese swords,
timeless techniques of their forebears. Here, western ninjutsu students," Alex shares. His armour, and art, enriching Alex's martial
in this sanctuary of learning, the ancient journey began in the late 1980s, during a time journey.
ways come to life in every measured step and when Dublin experienced a 'ninja boom.'
fluid motion. This is the Nami Ryu Dojo. Inspired by ninja movies, Jackie Chan, and
The Karate Kid, Alex's early enthusiasm for "I've spent just under 20 years
The training centre is part of the martial arts was fueled by a desire to find training with Someya Sensei on
International Bujinkan Dojo organization, strength through skill and discipline. His first
the specifics of the ryuha and the
founded in the 1970s by Masaaki Hatsumi, the instructor, Steve Byrne, introduced him to
weapons found with the Bujinkan
‘Soke’ or lineal inheritor of nine distinct prominent visiting teachers like Peter King,
martial traditions with histories spanning Pedro Fleitas, Arnaud Cousergue, and Dojo. He's a remarkable teacher, a
several centuries. These traditions include Sveneric Bogsater, fostering a vibrant martial walking encyclopaedia of the
contents of the schools."

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 16

CLUB PROFILE

Reflecting on his experiences, Alex notes the

dichotomy within Bujinkan training. "The
Bujinkan is a very unusual martial arts
organization," he explains. "It's possible to
have quite a shallow experience of training,
learning quite a basic martial art, depending
on the teacher you find. But it's also possible
to have an incredibly deep experience,
learning about culture and history to an
extraordinary degree, with extremely skilled
people." This depth and complexity are what
have kept Alex dedicated to his practice for so
many years, finding endless layers of learning
and growth within the martial arts that
Takamatsu Sensei imparted to Hatsumi
Sensei.

Alex's commitment to high standards and

continuous learning is shared by a network of
like-minded instructors worldwide.
Collaborations with martial artists like Alex
Esteve from Spain, Sean Askew from the US,
and Javier Morla from Spain have fostered a
research group called 'Bufu Kenkyosho,'
dedicated to sourcing, translating, and
interpreting historical records related to
their arts. These efforts, along with
friendships with instructors like Holger
Kunzmann in Germany and Duncan Stewart
in Tasmania, contribute to a vibrant and
rigorous martial arts community.

"I'm lucky to be friends with a

STILL AVAILABLE
group... who pursue training in
similar ways to me."

ISSUE #1
At Nami Ryu Dojo, Alex is supported by
dedicated students who have grown under
his tutelage, such as Tom Clements and
Stiofan Conlon, both Daishihan, and long-
time practitioners like Ali Martinez and Joe
Dunne. Together, they uphold the dojo's
legacy of excellence, embodying the
principles and skills of the Bujinkan Dojo.

Nami Ryu Dojo remains a beacon of martial Ninja Myths Busted

mastery in Dublin, inviting practitioners to Elevate Your Home Training
delve deep into the rich traditions and
The Art of Kyudo
rigorous training of the Bujinkan arts.
7 Shinobi Disguises
Mike Stone: Movie Ninja
Budo Snaps
Visit the dojo Nutrition
website

www.InsideNinjutsu.com
happobiken.com/

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 17

 It was against this backdrop
that the iconic 'Original
THE RISE OF Ninja' magazine emerged,

NINJA blazing a trail for

enthusiasts hungry for
MAGAZINE IN knowledge of the shadowy
art.
THE 1980S
Published by Condor Books
from 1983 to 1995, 'Ninja'
Exploring the magazine was more than
Iconic Publication just a publication—it was a
gateway to the clandestine
world of ninjutsu. Its
In the heyday of the 1980s,
striking cover art, featuring
when neon lights flickered and
colorful ninjas in dramatic
hair reached dizzying heights,
poses, beckoned readers
there was another
into a realm of history,
phenomenon sweeping
techniques, and news
through popular culture:
articles. Stars of the martial
ninjas. These enigmatic
arts world like Masaaki
Japanese warriors captured
Hatsumi, Stephen K Hayes,
the imagination of the western
and Jack Hoban graced its
world, igniting a fascination
pages, sharing their wisdom
with their mysterious ways and
and insights with eager
deadly skills.
practitioners.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 18

But it wasn't just the fetching hefty sums on
content that made 'Ninja' eBay and serving as
magazine a beloved staple nostalgic reminders of a
of martial arts enthusiasts— bygone era.
it was the adverts. A
veritable treasure trove of
weapons, from sickles to
shuriken, adorned its pages,
alongside catalogues of
shinobi books available for
order by mail. For many,
these adverts were a
window into a world of
possibilities, sparking
dreams of mastering
ancient arts and honing
ninja skills.

But as they say, every

ending is a new beginning.
Enter 'Inside Ninjutsu'
magazine—a contemporary
publication that pays
homage to its predecessor
As the years passed, 'Ninja' while catering to modern
magazine inspired a legion martial artists and shinobi
of copycats and spin-offs, researchers alike. With
each seeking to capture the insightful content, 'Inside
allure of the ninja craze. Ninjutsu' is a testament to
Today, vintage copies of the the enduring legacy of the
original publication are ninja and the continued
prized possessions, fascination with their art.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 19

 Dive into the
depths of ninja
lore with the
Bansenshukai, a
pivotal document
chronicling the
clandestine arts of
the shinobi. Crafted
by Fujibayashi
Yasutake in 1676, this
manuscript stands as a
testament to the enduring
legacy of ninja warfare
during the tumultuous
epochs of Japanese
history.

Bansenshukai
 Historical Ninja
Manuscript
Into the Shadows: Ninja
Tools Revealed

Delve into the arsenal of

Preserving the Legacy the ninja with the
Bansenshukai's vivid
In an era marked by descriptions of clandestine
ceaseless conflict, tools and techniques. From
Fujibayashi Yasutake sought bamboo ladders to
to safeguard the wisdom grappling hooks, each
cultivated by the clans of instrument was
Iga and Kōga regions. The meticulously crafted to
Bansenshukai emerged as a facilitate the stealthy
beacon of knowledge, traversal of enemy terrain
meticulously compiled to and the covert infiltration
immortalize the martial of fortifications.
traditions honed amidst the
chaos of feudal Japan. Unlocking the Mysteries

Deciphering the Text While the original

manuscript may have been
Spanning 22 volumes, the lost to time, modern
Bansenshukai serves as a translations by scholars like
compendium of ninja Don Roley and Antony
expertise, dissecting every Cummins have breathed
facet of clandestine new life into the
warfare. From the intricate Bansenshukai. Through
mindset of a shinobi to the their efforts, contemporary
strategic deployment of readers can peer into the
espionage tactics, each shadows of history and
section unveils the intricate glean insights from the
tapestry of ninja philosophy enigmatic world of the
and methodology. ninja.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 21

Get More 1. Optimize Your Website: Your
martial arts website serves as the
hub of your online presence.
Students Ensure it's properly optimized for
local SEO to improve visibility in
Savvy marketing search engine results. Utilize
simple URLs for key landing pages,
strategies tailored
such as free trial offers or adult
for success class registrations, to make it easy
for potential students to find and
Running a successful martial arts navigate your site.
club involves more than just
teaching classes; it requires
effective marketing strategies to
attract new students and retain
existing ones. By combining digital
and traditional marketing
methods, you can maximize your
reach and grow your club while
keeping costs low.
 2. Create Engaging Landing Pages: Design dedicated landing pages
with no navigation to funnel visitors towards specific offers, such as
free trials or introductory classes. Craft compelling headlines that
clearly convey the value of your offerings, and use persuasive,
conversational copy to encourage sign-ups. Incorporate strong, clear
calls-to-action (CTAs) throughout the page to prompt action from
visitors.

3. Tailor Offers for Adults: 4. Leverage Content Marketing:

Instead of promoting both Utilize content marketing to
adult and children's programs provide valuable and relevant
simultaneously, create content that resonates with
separate landing pages for your target audience. Publish
each to target specific blog posts, articles, or videos
audiences effectively. addressing common questions
Highlight the unique benefits about ninjutsu training. Share
of adult martial arts training, this content on your website
such as self-defense skills, and social media platforms to
stress relief, and physical engage and educate
fitness, to attract potential prospective students.
adult students.

5. Utilize Social Media:

Leverage social media 6. Host Free Demonstrations: Organize free
martial arts demonstrations at local schools,
platforms to showcase
community events, or social gatherings to
your club's offerings
showcase your club's expertise and attract
and engage with your potential students. Offer special promotions
community. Share or discounts to attendees who sign up for
short videos of classes on the spot to incentivize immediate
customer testimonials, action.
behind-the-scenes
glimpses of classes,
7. Implement Email Marketing: Develop an
and promotional
email marketing strategy to nurture
giveaways to generate
relationships with current and prospective
interest and
students. Send regular newsletters with
excitement. Encourage
updates on class schedules, upcoming events,
current students to
and special promotions. Provide valuable
share their
content, such as training tips, success stories,
experiences on social
and exclusive offers, to keep subscribers
media to expand your
engaged and informed.
reach organically.
INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 23
The Art of
SUIJUTSU
The ancient art of
samurai swimming
I
n the annals of
martial history, tales
of the samurai's
prowess on land are
legendary—but what Rooted in the From swimming in full
about their skills in the turbulent warring armor to treading
water? Enter the world states period, Suijutsu water while firing
of Suijutsu, the ancient emerged as a strategic arrows, samurai were
art of Japanese combination of trained to perform a
swimming, where swimming and combat myriad of tasks while
warriors navigated techniques, designed submerged—a
rivers, moats, and to gain an edge in testament to their
oceans with the same battle scenarios versatility and
precision and finesse involving water. adaptability on the
as they wielded their battlefield.
swords. In this
exploration of the
samurai's aquatic
arsenal, we delve into
the methods,
techniques, and
strategic importance
of Suijutsu in the
warrior's toolkit.
 Yet, it is precisely this various aquatic
challenge that hones environments, from
their abilities, lakes to rivers,
preparing them for the mastering techniques
rigors of battle where to conserve energy
every movement could and navigate
mean life or death. treacherous
conditions with ease.
Among the traditional
strokes of Suijutsu is In the tumultuous era
the 'Ina-tobi' or flying of warfare, Suijutsu
mullet—a unique was indispensable for
technique that propels clans situated near
the swimmer's upper bodies of water,
body out of the water, providing them with
allowing for enhanced the ability to cross
visibility over long rivers swiftly,
distances. Similarly, approach enemy
'tachi-oyogi' enables camps undetected,
warriors to stand and and navigate the perils
swim, facilitating tasks of the battlefield with
such as firing arrows or confidence. And while
engaging in combat the need for such skills
Central to the art of while in the water—a waned in more
Suijutsu is the concept testament to the peaceful times,
of 'Katchu Gozen ingenuity and Suijutsu lives on as a
Oyogi'—swimming in adaptability of samurai cherished art form,
full armor—a skill warriors. evolving into Nihon
passed down for over But Suijutsu is not Eiho—the techniques
three centuries. merely about physical still practiced by
Mastering this prowess—it is also a modern martial artists
technique requires not testament to the today.
only physical strength samurai's mental
but also mental discipline and focus.
fortitude, as warriors Emphasizing the
navigate the water's importance of a calm
depths encumbered mind, practitioners of
by armor weighing Suijutsu train in
over 20kg.
INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 27
BOOKS ESSENTIAL READS

RECCOMENDED
4 Books you
need in your
collection

F
Unarmed Fighting
or practitioners Techniques of the Samurai
seeking mastery in by Masaaki Hatsumi
the Takamatsu-den
arts, a journey through the As the current Soke
literature surrounding (Grandmaster) of the Bujinkan
these revered martial organization, Hatsumi sensei
traditions is an essential provides a comprehensive
exploration of the main schools
aspect of their quest for
taught within the Bujinkan.
knowledge and skill.
Beyond mere technique, this
seminal work delves into the
From the timeless wisdom of spiritual essence of Japanese
ancient combat techniques to budo, guiding readers through
the profound philosophy that the intricacies of combat
underpins these arts, a treasure methods passed down through
trove of insight awaits those generations. With step-by-step
who delve into these essential explanations and hundreds of
reads. Here's a closer look at photographs, including ancient
four indispensable books that scrolls, this book offers a
every student of the profound understanding of the
Takamatsu-den arts should martial arts taught within the
explore: Bujinkan.

INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 30

Ninja Master of the 20th mastering the art of ninjutsu.
Century by Dr. Kacem With detailed step-by-step
illustrations, Tanemura sensei
Zoughari
guides practitioners through
Dr. Zoughari's scholarly the fundamental principles and
examination sheds light on the techniques that define this
life and legacy of Toshitsugu ancient martial tradition.
Takamatsu, offering a
meticulously translated series Kiso No Kaizen by Stephane
of articles from a Japanese Meunier
newspaper. Beyond historical
accounts, this book unravels Meunier's guide serves as a
the hidden meanings behind practical companion for
Takamatsu's teachings, aspiring ninjutsu practitioners,
providing essential context and offering invaluable advice on
insight into the mindset of a every aspect of training. From
true martial arts master. With finding the right teacher to
facsimiles of original articles developing the correct mindset
and comprehensive notes, this for practice, this book provides
work is a must-read for anyone readers with essential guidance
seeking a deeper understanding for embarking on their martial
of Takamatsu's profound arts journey. With sections on
influence. improving flexibility, mastering
basic stances, and refining
Ninpo Secrets by Shoto striking techniques, Meunier
Tanemura offers readers a comprehensive
roadmap for achieving mastery
in the Takamatsu-den arts.
As the head of the Genbukan,
Tanemura sensei offers a
comprehensive exploration of
ninjutsu, spanning its history,
philosophy, and practical
applications. From the silent
walking methods of the ninja to
the intricacies of hand-to-hand
combat, this book provides
readers with invaluable insights
and practical techniques for
INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 31
Japan's Dating back to 1532, Takenouchi-
ryū stands as one of the oldest
jujutsu koryū in Japan, steeped in
Oldest tradition and revered for its
holistic approach to combat.

Jujutsu
Tradition Beyond its renown for jujutsu,
Takenouchi-ryū encompasses
a diverse array of disciplines,
Exploring the including staff, sword, glaive,
iron fan, rope, and
Timeless Art resuscitation techniques. Its
influence reverberates
In the rich tapestry of Japanese through the annals of martial
martial arts, few schools boast the history, with its jujutsu
historical pedigree and techniques serving as the
comprehensive curriculum of foundation for numerous
Takenouchi-ryū. other schools across Japan.
One distinguishing feature of These techniques, known as
Takenouchi-ryū is its inclusive kogusoku koshi no mawari, are
approach to discipleship. Unlike foundational to the school's
many martial arts schools of its approach to combat, offering
time, Takenouchi-ryū welcomed practitioners a strategic
practitioners from all walks of advantage against armed
life, transcending hereditary opponents. It is through these
classes to embrace farmers, techniques that the essence of
townsmen, and samurais alike. Takenouchi-ryū's martial
This ethos of accessibility prowess is truly realized.
contributed to the widespread
dissemination of Takenouchi- In addition to its core
ryū, extending its influence far curriculum, Takenouchi-ryū has
beyond the realm of nobility and spawned several descendant
warriors. schools. From Takenouchi Santo-
ryū to Bitchū Den Takenouchi-
At the core of Takenouchi-ryū's ryū and Araki-ryū, these
curriculum lies its renowned offshoots pay homage to the
jujutsu techniques, which legacy of their progenitor while
encompass a wide spectrum of exploring new avenues of martial
unarmed combat skills. From expression.
grip breaking to tumbling,
throwing, joint dislocation, As practitioners continue to
choking and ground techniques, delve into its teachings and
Takenouchi-ryū jujutsu offers a unlock its secrets, Takenouchi-
comprehensive toolkit for ryū remains a beacon of martial
medieval warfare. These excellence and a testament to
techniques are meticulously the timeless wisdom of Japan's
preserved and transmitted martial heritage.
through kata, providing
practitioners with a structured
framework for training and
advancement.

While unarmed jujutsu forms the

cornerstone of Takenouchi-ryū,
its armed grappling techniques
using the short sword kogusoku
are equally noteworthy.
INSIDE NINJUTSU | Issue 2 | 33