Japanese martial arts are not merely combat techniques but a rich, multifaceted system that embodies deep spirituality, aesthetic values, and traditional culture. In this article, we provide an overview of various martial arts—from the art of the sword and spear to staff techniques, jujutsu, and cavalry tactics—exploring their historical background and distinctive practical features.
Kenjutsu
Techniques Using a Single Sword
Kenjutsu is the art of wielding a single sword. Depending on the school, region, and historical context, it is also known as “kenpō,” “gekiken,” “katōjutsu,” “tachijutsu,” or “uchigatana” techniques. Each school developed its own methods of handling the sword, including stances, cutting techniques, and training methods to maximize the blade’s sharpness. These techniques are deeply intertwined with the warrior’s spirit and etiquette, reflecting a cultural aspect that goes beyond mere combat.
Tachi
- Tachi
The tachi, with a blade length between approximately 2 and 3 shaku, is primarily used while on foot. Different schools developed distinct cutting and stance methods to execute rapid strikes and effective defense in combat. Its training also emphasizes spiritual discipline, embodying the principles of Bushidō. - Ōtachi (No Tachi)
The ōtachi, with a blade longer than 3 shaku, was designed for large-scale battles and cavalry combat. Its long blade enabled wide cutting arcs and long-distance strikes. Historically, its imposing presence on the battlefield and practical effectiveness were highly valued. In certain schools, such as Yakumaru Jiken-ryū, techniques were refined so that the weapon could even be effectively used on foot.
Kotachi-jutsu
Kotachi-jutsu involves the use of a shorter sword (with a blade under 2 shaku), wakizashi, or tantō. Due to its compact size, the kotachi is especially suited for close-quarter combat or surprise attacks. Some schools also passed down techniques that involve wielding two small swords simultaneously, allowing for a balanced offense and defense.
Techniques Using Two or More Swords
- Nitōjutsu (Two-Sword Style)
Nitōjutsu combines the unique attributes of both a tachi and a kotachi by employing them simultaneously. By skillfully handling different swords in each hand, a practitioner can execute both offensive and defensive maneuvers or deliver continuous striking combinations. Historically, this method offered multifaceted attacking options on the battlefield. - Kotachi Nitōjutsu
This style employs two small swords concurrently. Schools like Tendō-ryū and Yagyū Shingan-ryū are renowned for their rapid consecutive cuts and surprise attacks aimed at breaking an opponent’s guard. Using two swords in tandem allows for versatile, multi-directional offensive strategies.
Iaijutsu, Iaidō, and Battōjutsu
Techniques that focus on the swift drawing of the sword, including hidden blades, are central to iaijutsu, iaidō, and battōjutsu. These arts emphasize mental clarity and rapid decision-making in moments of crisis. The precise manipulation of the scabbard and the fluidity of the drawing motion not only serve a practical combat purpose but also reflect an aesthetic and spiritual discipline.
Long-Reach Weapons and Derived Techniques
Staff Techniques (Bōjutsu)
- Bōjutsu, Hanbōjutsu, and Jōjutsu
These arts utilize a staff or rod as the primary weapon. Despite its simple form, the staff offers a wide range of striking and thrusting techniques. Depending on the length, material, and method of use, different schools have developed unique forms and tactical methods. In battle, a well-delivered strike from a staff could effectively break an opponent’s defense.
Kaimoku-jutsu (Using Splintered Wood), Kinsai-bō, Hananesuri, and Bundō-bō (Swinging Staff)
These techniques, derived from the use of long-reach weapons, showcase the ingenuity of practitioners in maximizing the potential of simple implements. For example, kaimoku-jutsu employs short wooden pieces to subdue an opponent swiftly—a skill that reflects the need for on-the-spot tactical decisions in the heat of battle. Similarly, the heavy and uniquely shaped Kinsai-bō and bundō-bō techniques are designed to enhance the impact force delivered to the opponent.
Spear and Naginata Arts
- Spear Techniques
Spear techniques involve thrusting, slashing, and sweeping motions. The spear’s length provides advantages in long-range combat and massed battles. Historically, spear techniques were integral to the battlefield formations of the Sengoku period, where coordinated group tactics were crucial. - Naginata, Nagamaki, and Naginata-like Arts
The naginata and similar weapons combine the features of a sword and a spear. These arts emphasize wide, sweeping cuts and are exemplified by schools such as the Takeda-ryū Yaegama. The weight and length of these weapons were harnessed to break through enemy defenses with powerful, sweeping strikes. - Chain and Sickle Techniques (Kusari-gama)
Kusari-gama involves the use of a large sickle attached to a chain, demanding intricate maneuvers and flexible attacks. Because it can be wielded with both hands, this technique allows for continuous offensive and defensive actions, significantly expanding tactical options on the battlefield.
Jujutsu and Grappling Arts
Unarmed Combat Techniques
Jujutsu is the art of fighting without weapons, using one’s body to subdue an opponent. Performed in everyday clothing or barehanded, it focuses on joint locks, chokeholds, and throwing techniques. Various schools refer to it as “jujutsu,” “taijutsu,” “sumo,” “kakuto,” or other names. Besides its combat applications, jujutsu also developed as a means of self-defense and spiritual training, with practices such as budo-sumo emphasizing both physical strength and technique.
Techniques for Seizing and Binding (Hosetsu-jutsu and Hojaku-jutsu)
- Hosetsu-jutsu
This art involves subduing an opponent without lethal force, using techniques that incorporate tools such as short blades, clubs, or other implements. Precision and coordinated movements are essential to neutralize an opponent without causing fatal damage. - Hojaku-jutsu
Hojaku-jutsu focuses on binding an opponent with rope after immobilizing them. Mastery of this technique requires both dexterity and quick reflexes, and some schools also use the rope as an offensive weapon. - Koppō (Strong Method)
Attached to the Ichijō Funi-ryū tradition, this technique combines hidden weapons with body strikes to execute sudden surprise attacks. It relies on agility and rapid response, often passed down as a closely guarded secret.
Hidden Weapons, Surprise Attacks, and Self-Defense
Concealed Weapons and Shuriken
- Concealed Weapons
These small weapons are kept hidden and are drawn quickly when needed. Items such as sun tetsu (寸鉄), bundō chains, tekken (鉄拳), and kakushin (角指) are used to catch an opponent off guard. Their deployment often plays a crucial role in psychological warfare on the battlefield. - Shuriken
Shuriken are thrown weapons designed for surprise attacks and disruption. By exploiting a brief moment of distraction or hesitation, the practitioner can disorient the opponent and follow up with further strikes. Their use demands high levels of focus and precision.
Kanbari-jutsu, Tekiben-jutsu, and Tessen-jutsu
Kanbari-jutsu (also known as fukin-jutsu or uchibari-jutsu) involves swiftly drawing a concealed weapon to launch an immediate attack. As a self-defense technique, it is effective in both neutralizing an incoming assault and counterattacking. Some schools have even incorporated hidden blades within the sword itself, thereby enhancing the weapon’s offensive capabilities.
Archery, Firearms, and Throwing Weapons
Archery and Shooting Techniques
Archery in the context of Japanese martial arts goes beyond simply aiming and shooting. It encompasses techniques used on horseback, coordinated group attacks on the battlefield, and various methods of drawing and releasing the bow. Every detail—from the type of arrow to the draw and posture—plays a critical role in perfecting the art.
Techniques Using Thrown Weapons and Artillery
- Daikon-jutsu
This technique utilizes throwing weapons for long-distance strikes or simultaneous attacks on multiple opponents. Careful adjustment of the weapon’s shape and balance enables accurate control of its trajectory, thereby turning the tide in battle. - Ōtsutsu (Japanese Cannon) and Firearms Techniques
Incorporating matchlock guns, fired arrows, and inji (印地), these methods introduced a revolutionary change in battlefield tactics. Even before modern times, such firearms techniques were integrated with traditional martial arts, leading to innovative combat strategies and evolving tactics as technological advancements emerged.
Cavalry Tactics
Cavalry and Mounted Combat
Cavalry tactics combine the mobility of horseback riding with combat techniques. Essential for rapidly closing distances with an enemy or executing evasive maneuvers, mounted combat required exceptional balance and coordination. Techniques developed for group engagements while riding were critical to success on the battlefield.
Mounted Archery (Kyasha)
Kyasha involves shooting arrows while riding a horse. With specialized techniques refined by schools such as the Ogasawara-ryū Kyasha-reihō, mounted archery was highly effective in disturbing enemy formations and delivering precise strikes even amidst rapid movement. Mastery of this art demands an extraordinary unity between the rider and the horse.
Aquatic and Amphibious Combat Techniques
Swimming Techniques
Unlike competitive swimming, these techniques were developed for combat or rapid escape in water. Methods such as tachi-oyogi (standing swimming) or silent swimming—designed to avoid creating disruptive waves—allowed practitioners to move stealthily and swiftly in aquatic environments. Known as Nihon Eiyōhō (日本泳法), these methods held significant strategic value.
Naval and Underwater Combat
- Mizu-ken, Mizu-yumi, and Mizu-jū
These specialized techniques enable the effective use of various weapons while afloat or underwater. For instance, the Kobori-ryū Tōsui-jutsu takes advantage of water resistance to launch unexpected attacks, utilizing innovative adaptations suited to the aquatic battlefield. - Sōsen
Beyond direct combat, techniques for maneuvering vessels—developed by schools such as Meii-ryū—played a crucial role in controlling ship movements during naval engagements, contributing to tactical superiority in sea battles.
Armor Techniques (Kacchūjutsu)
Combat Techniques While Wearing Armor
Kacchūjutsu focuses on fighting while wearing heavy armor, which restricts bodily movement considerably. Practitioners had to develop methods that maintained mobility while adapting their attacks and defenses to the constraints imposed by armor. Schools specializing in armored combat—known as kacchū-heihō or kacchū-gumitori—developed unique tactics that increased survivability on the battlefield.
Kaisha Kenjutsu and Kogusadori
- Kaisha Kenjutsu
This sword art is practiced with the assumption that the warrior is wearing armor. It focuses on efficient cutting techniques and exploiting gaps that occur when armored warriors clash, turning the armor’s weight and rigidity into a tactical advantage. - Kogusadori
In close-quarters combat, this technique targets the vulnerable areas of an opponent’s armor using short blades or similar weapons. It is highly valued for its practicality in exploiting the weaker points within a suit of armor.
Jinkasa-jutsu and Kacchū Eiyōhō
Jinkasa-jutsu employs items such as hats or other gear used during field fortification as part of defensive tactics, while Kacchū Eiyōhō (Armor Swimming) enables a warrior to swim while still clad in full armor. Both techniques require ingenuity to minimize the restrictions of heavy gear while maintaining effective mobility and defense.
Conclusion
Japanese martial arts represent a cultural heritage that transcends simple combat techniques. By integrating rigorous physical training, refined aesthetics, and practical battlefield knowledge, these arts continue to be celebrated for fostering self-discipline and personal growth. As each school evolves through the ages, the legacy of these martial traditions remains a vital bridge between history and modern life.
※ This article is based on information from the free encyclopedia ウィキペディア.
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