Kata are choreographed, in so far as both uchidachi and shidachi know the sequence of techniques. But kata is not dancing. What are the essential elements that make kata so different?

 

External form is the entrance. The main issue is how one will become aware of the difference between form and mental attitude. This is the same as recognising the difference between Jutsu (technique) and Michi or Do (way). When beginning, I don't think it matters if one cannot recognise the difference. However, one will naturally start to vaguely feel the difference between Gyo (study/practice) and Gyo (spiritual progress). After that you will find that you feel the need to choose the right words.

 

Once you start to recognise these 'invisible' ideas through the 'visible' techniques, you will understand the eternal truth in the variety. The eternal truth would be found in the basics. It is, however, impossible to understand these ideas directly. So kata (sequenced sets of movements) have rules and a sequence which makes it look choreographed... like dancing.

 

In the practice of kata (set movements), I think the purpose of following the sequence is to teach the correct mental attitude. To stretch this point, the mindset found within the movements teach the spirit which enables us to see how to protect ourself in an instant. I have come to this understanding. This is thanks to Shimizu Takaji Katsuyasu Sensei.

 

Bujutsu is like that, and dancing/choreography is worlds apart.

.

 

 

In the Meiji Restoration, Bushi in the leading class of Japan set aside their swords, and up until today, even Japanese people abide by these rules but don’t have a clear understanding of the complexity of the situation and events during that time. The word ‘budo’ still remains, but I think there is now some misunderstanding about ‘bujutsu’. Koryu bujutsu is contuining to crumble and pass away. However, this is only my feeling, and the fact is there are many people who don’t realise this.

 

In this age of the 21st century, I feel I must pass on the ‘kata geiko’ (kata practice) and spirit of SMRJ. I think there is value in passing it on, so after the passing of Shimizu Sensei I made an independent organisation, Sei Ryu Kai. I think the ‘kata geiko’ of uchidachi and shidachi must remain, otherwise I think Japanese budo will disappear. I want to pass on the spiritual and practical aspects found within the spirit of kata geiko to the next generation. I have to make a few people come to understand and carry these things on to the next generation, and until that happens I can’t say my work is finished.

 

So, has this reply answered your question? I’m not sure. So you’ve read this answer, but I expect you will ask me more questions to really understand these ideas.

 

Kiri-otoshi and other discussion - Jodojo Nov 04

 

Interview with Nishioka Sensei - Jodojo Sept 04

 

My Thoughts on Honte and Gyakute - A discussion by Nishioka Sensei. Jodojo 11 Apr 04

 

Knowing the ‘suigetsu’ by the round stick. – Jodojo 10 Feb 04

 

What is the opinion of SMRJ about fighting with multiple enemies at the same time?    – Jodojo 18 Oct 03

 

What are the essential elements of kata practice? - Jodojo 18 Oct 03

 

How does training in koryu differ to other, more widely available, martial arts such as karatedo, aikido or judo? - Jodojo 16 Oct 02

 

What do you think training in the traditional Japanese martial arts means in today's world? What kind of attitude do you expect a person studying kobudo to have? - Jodojo 6 Sept 02

 

Interview with David Dangerfield, Jan 02