Japanese Sword Fighting

Renowned budō-ka (martial artist) and ninja grandmaster Hatsumi explains how Japanese sword fighting embodies the essence of all martial arts and the spirit of the samurai. By learning and understanding the philosophy and techniques found in these pages practitioners will enter the path of Mastery, whatever their chosen discipline might be.

Grandmaster Hatsumi covers a variety of classical techniques, including ninja kenpō and two-sword fighting, and also demonstrates multiple methods and applications using the stick, spear, naginata (bladed pole weapon), and kusarigama (sickle and chain). He then explores such secret techniques as those involving armour, and the mutōdori (no-sword) forms, considered the ultimate samurai skill. Detailed demonstration photos, works of calligraphy by famous samurai artists, historical scrolls, and illustrations enhance the text.

Within Hatsumi’s technical descriptions and musings on the history of bushidō (the way of the warrior) are sections in which he places budō and sword fighting in their cultural context, discusses their practical applications, and conveys his personal mission of promoting a world of peace and tolerance.

All that Hatsumi conveys in this book is richly supported by, and arguably driven by, the hundreds of photographs contained – including many sequential – which serve to very clearly demonstrate how the kata and the techniques should be learned and performed.

Dimensions: 19.1 x 1.52 x 26.04 cm