Living Under Constant Witness Modern discussions of samurai ethics often focus on Bushidō, loyalty, or the sword itself. Yet beneath all of these sat a

Among the many figures that inhabit Japanese folklore, few are as closely intertwined with the martial path as the tengu. Part deity, part demon, part

In Japanese culture, the sword has never been merely a weapon. It is an object of reverence, symbolism, and spiritual weight. To understand Iaijutsu properly—beyond

In the landscape of traditional Japanese martial arts (koryū bujutsu), no licence carries more weight, responsibility, or historical significance than Menkyo Kaiden (免許皆伝). Often translated

Across many koryū martial arts the curriculum is structured into three progressive layers: Shoden, Chūden, and Okuden.These are more than just labels for technique lists.They

Before you approach Menkyo or Menkyo Kaiden, there is a foundational stage in the traditional licensing system: the Mokuroku (目録).Often misunderstood as “a rank,” Mokuroku

In classical Japanese martial arts, progress was not marked by belts or grades but by access. The first major shift in your journey — the

  Seiza — sitting neatly on the heels with a straight spine — is one of the most recognisable elements of Japanese etiquette and martial

In Japanese culture, language is more than a communication tool—it is a system for maintaining harmony, respect, and social balance. Among its many nuances, one

Preventing Over-Rotation, Blade Drift, and Instability During Turns In Iaijutsu, few moments feel as vulnerable as the instant your sword crosses your centreline. For a