Chain Sickle Arts (Kusarigama-jutsu)

An ancient Japanese martial art originating from battlefield grappling. It encompasses a comprehensive system of practical techniques including throws, joint locks, chokes, and strikes. As the source of both judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, it has been globally reappraised as 'jujitsu' amid the rise of MMA (mixed martial arts).

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.

A collective term for traditional Japanese martial arts established before the Edo period. Encompassing diverse techniques including swordsmanship, spearmanship, archery, horsemanship, and swimming, each school has transmitted techniques through oral tradition and kata. As the source of modern martial arts, it attracts attention from domestic and international researchers as the crystallization of bushido spirit and combat technique.

Classical iaido school established by the Shibata family during the Edo period. It systematized techniques for rapidly drawing the sword from scabbard and executing cuts. Currently preserved by classical martial arts practitioners nationwide, it represents an important school exemplifying Japanese martial spirit and idealized sword methodology.

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 classical Japanese martial technique employing a kusarigama—a chain-and-sickle weapon. Systematized in Edo-period classical martial schools, it features attack and defense methods for both long and short range. Currently preserved through kata and theory by classical martial arts preservation societies and enthusiasts, gaining wider recognition through films and period dramas.