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Tenjin Shinyo-ryu can be classified as a koryu (traditional) form of jujutsu. It was founded by Iso Mataemo Minamoto no Masatari in the 1830s. Once a very popular jujutsu system in Japan, among the famous students Jigoro Kano that gave rise to the modern day art of judo, and Morihei Ueshiba the founder of aikido.
Description
Essentially Tenjin Shinyo-ryu is the amalgamation of two separate systems of jujutsu, the Yoshin-ryu and Shinto-ryu. The distinctive feature of this particular school is the use of atemi or strikes to disrupt the balance of the opponent and, a more flexible and flowing movement of the body. The older school of jujutsu employs large and slower movements, this is to mimick the use of armour in the battlefield, Tenjin Shinyo-ryu was developed after the period of civil war in Japan, thus without armor the movements are faster, more strikes were incorporated, primarily aimed at human vital points and meridians exposed (without armor) are used.
Training methodology
The training methodology, as with all koryu systems, is kata based or a form of pre-arranged fighting. Students learns the specific subtleties, or the more hidden meaning of the form, through the continuous repetitions of the katas. There are over 130 kata of this classical jujutsu, unarmed combat teaching from seated positions, standing positions, weapons defence, and also includes special healing methods and resuscitation (kappo).
Certain katas are subject to secrecy, due to the nature of lethal effects and subject of martial traditions. The kappo or resuscitation techniques, were a secret, however Kubota sensei now teaches at Kodokan (Judo Hombu dojo, Japan) to the leading judo teachers at the seminars. The higher level of katas, not only relates to the aspect of physical movements, but the deeper inner meanings, or link between the philosophy, and mindset of the practitioner. Such katas are taught only to students with many years of commitment and experience.
Toshihiro Kubota sensei
The school is headed by Toshihiro Kubota sensei, residing in Tokyo, Japan. He is the last remaining teacher of Tenjin Shinyo-ryu in Japan, also one of the few surviving leading figures in the koryu based jujutsu teachers in Japan. In his seventies, still actively participates in the teaching of the art, three times a week. Apart from locals, his students are from far ranging countries such as Australia, Germany, Israel, and England. In addition to Tenjin Shinyo-ryu jujutsu, Kubota Sensei holds a 7th dan in judo. Currently there are only two officially recognised branches of the Tenjin Shinyo-ryu by Kubota Sensei outside Japan. These are located in Sydney, Australia and London, England, with teachers who hold the menkyo Teaching License, whom are officially certified by Kubota sensei. However, students of these schools must return to Japan where Kubota sensei holds the single and final voice as the Headmaster of the style for testing and progression.
External link
"Tenjin Shinyo-ryu"