(Contributor: Al Bowers - bowers@wilbur.dfrf.nasa.gov) Intro: The combative use of a sword. Origin: Japan History: The origins of this art are lost in the midst of history. It probably has its origins in 12th century or 11th century Japan. It is famous in myth and story from people like Miyamoto Mushashi in the 15th century. There are 4 root systems, Cujo-ryu, Nen-ryu, Kage-ryu and Shinto Ryu. These probably all have roots prior to the beginning of the 16th century. In the 16th century, there was an explosion of styles, with many being formed between then and the present. Modern kenjutsu schools trace from either the monk Jion (Nen ryu or Cujo ryu) or from Iiosai, the founder of the Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu. Description: This is a hard, weapon style using the Japanese sword. It involves powerful, high commitment strikes to selected targets in order to kill the opponent. There is a strong side of spiritual and philosophical study, similar in a way to that of Aikido. Training: There is a large amount of two-person work, mostly with wooden swords (bokken). Some schools use the fukuru shinai, an ancestor of todays weapon (Shinkage ryu, Nen-ryu). Sparring is a developed student activity. Sub-Styles: Kage, Shinkage, Yagyu Shinkage Cujo, Itto-ryu, Nen-ryu, Katori Shinto Ryu, Kashima shin-ryu, Niten-ichi-ryu, Jigen-ryu. Shinkage was a royal school - for the Shogun.

The secret to good Kenjutsu is to first have good Taijutsu. When you can move your body well your katana/bokken will move well. Seek out a knowledgeable instructor and bring this quest(ion) of yours to his attention. Taijutsu is the key.