Q. What do you think training in the traditional Japanese martial arts/budo means in today's world?

 

Every person has various ideas about the meaning of budo, however, I have come to believe as follows. Budo is spirit, so the eye cannot see it. We can only see the form (kata), in which remains martial techniques (bujutsu). I think that techniques (jutsu) become 'a way' (michi or do), and this is the process of practice. Traditional Japanese budo contains important teachings common to all mankind. I think it is necessary for these teachings to be passed on to future generations, and that we make good use of those teachings. I think this is the menaing of "Keikoshokon".

 

 

 

Q. What kind of attitude do you expect a person studying kobudo to have?

 

It is necessary to practice repeatedly with a humble heart, so you must choose a good teacher. When you are asked 'Who is your teacher?', your answer must be clear. It is important to keep having a sensei whom you can name, in the same way that you can name your parents. This is the way to know the basics of life. I think this is the meaning of "Shurikosei".

 

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