Koryu Bujutsu (Classical Martial Arts Systems)

A ninjutsu tradition developed in the Iga region of Mie Prefecture. Systematized diverse skills including intelligence gathering, covert operations, and assassination techniques. Valued by feudal lords during the Sengoku period, producing famous ninjas like Hattori Hanzo. Served the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period. Today, ninja experience facilities and tradition carriers preserve and research historical ninjutsu techniques.

A modern martial art founded by Jigoro Kano from classical jujutsu. He established the Kodokan in Tokyo in 1882, systematizing judo as a means of physical education and personal development. Characterized by comprehensive techniques combining throwing methods and groundwork, with ethical ideals of 'maximum efficiency' and 'mutual benefit.' Adopted by the Meiji government's educational policies and internationally disseminated, becoming an official Olympic sport in 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Now practiced in over 200 countries and territories worldwide.

A ritualized form of suicide representing samurai honor and the code of bushido, practiced from the Nanboku-Cho period through the Edo era as a way of taking responsibility. Recognized as demonstrating samurai pride and loyalty. Now studied as historical phenomenon reflecting traditional warrior values.

A martial art rooted in Japanese swordsmanship, practiced with bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bogu). Its philosophy centers on character development through the disciplined study of the sword, emphasizing etiquette and mental cultivation alongside technique. Led by the All Japan Kendo Federation, it is practiced in over 60 countries.

A martial art systematized from traditional Japanese archery. Using a Japanese longbow approximately two meters in length, it combines shooting technique with spiritual discipline. Under the principle of 'seisha hicchu' (correct shooting always hits the target), emphasis is placed on the beauty of the eight stages of shooting form and the unity of mind.

A Japanese martial art that trains the complete sequence of drawing the sword from its scabbard, cutting, and resheathing. Evolved from practical swordsmanship, it emphasizes the unity of mind and body and spiritual cultivation. The act of drawing the sword in an instant from stillness embodies 'stillness within motion, motion within stillness,' pursuing the essence of martial arts.

A Japanese martial art using the naginata, a polearm with a curved blade. Used as a warrior's weapon since the Heian period, it developed as a women's martial art from the Edo period onward. While practiced by all genders today, it is notable for its many female practitioners and is valued as a martial art that emphasizes etiquette and grace.

A collective term for classical Japanese martial arts transmitted from before the Edo period. It encompasses diverse weapon arts and unarmed techniques including swordsmanship, spear arts, staff arts, and shuriken-jutsu, with each school preserving its unique traditions and techniques. Many organizations are affiliated with the Japanese Budo Association, and an annual Kobudo demonstration is held at the Nippon Budokan.