The Art of Kenjutsu

Описание: History of Kenjutsu (剣術)
The Art of the Sword in Feudal Japan

Overview:
Kenjutsu, meaning “technique of the sword,” is the classical Japanese martial art of swordsmanship. It was developed and practiced by the samurai class of feudal Japan and forms the foundation for modern kendo, iaido, and many other sword-based arts. Unlike kendo, which emphasizes competitive sport, kenjutsu is focused on combat techniques, strategy, and dueling skills with real or wooden swords.

Historical Timeline:
1. Heian Period (794–1185): The Early Origins
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Swordsmanship was primarily a battlefield skill.
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Early techniques focused on tachi (curved swords worn edge-down) and cavalry combat.
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Martial skills were part of a broader bujutsu (warrior arts) tradition.
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Sword use was secondary to archery and spear warfare during this time.
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2. Kamakura Period (1185–1333): Rise of the Samurai
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The samurai class gained political power under the shogunate.
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The sword became increasingly symbolic of the warrior's status.
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Early schools of kenjutsu, such as the Kage-ryū, were founded.
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3. Muromachi Period (1336–1573): Systemization
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Warring States Period (Sengoku Jidai) saw widespread conflict and refinement of martial arts.
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Many kenjutsu ryūha (styles/schools) were founded, including:
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Katori Shintō-ryū (est. 1447) – one of the oldest extant martial traditions.
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Kashima Shintō-ryū – emphasizing strategy and philosophy.
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Kenjutsu techniques were passed on through kuden (oral transmission), kata (forms), and scrolls.
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4. Edo Period (1603–1868): Peace and Codification
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With the Tokugawa shogunate establishing peace, warfare declined.
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Swordsmanship became more ritualized and philosophical.
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Hundreds of kenjutsu ryūha flourished.
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Notable figures:
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Miyamoto Musashi (1584–1645) – creator of Niten Ichi-ryū, known for using two swords (katana and wakizashi).
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His book, The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin no Sho), remains influential.
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Practice shifted from battlefield technique to dueling, self-perfection, and spiritual development.
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5. Meiji Period (1868–1912): Decline and Modernization
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The samurai class was abolished, and the carrying of swords was banned.
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Kenjutsu saw a decline, but martial arts were preserved through organizations and private dojos.
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Transition to modern martial arts began:
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Kendo, a sport-based evolution of kenjutsu using bamboo swords (shinai), was developed.
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6. Modern Era (20th Century–Today): Preservation and Practice
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Kenjutsu continues as part of koryū bujutsu (old martial traditions).
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Practiced by enthusiasts, historians, martial artists, and cultural preservationists.
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Often taught alongside kendo, iaido, and other martial arts.
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Schools such as Kashima Shinryū, Katori Shintō-ryū, and Hyoho Niten Ichi-ryū are still active.
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Global interest has grown, with dojos around the world preserving ancient sword techniques.
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Characteristics of Kenjutsu:
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Kata-based training: Pre-arranged forms to simulate combat scenarios.
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Weapons: Primarily katana, bokken (wooden sword), and sometimes two swords.
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Focus: Precision, timing, distance (maai), and mental strategy (heijōshin – calm mind).
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Some schools also integrate:
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Spear (yari)
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Staff (bō)
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Short sword (kodachi or wakizashi)
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Legacy and Influence:
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Kenjutsu influenced many modern arts:
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Kendo (sport fencing)
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Iaido (sword drawing)
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Aikido (philosophy and movement)
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Its philosophy and techniques are embedded in Japanese culture, literature, and bushidō (way of the warrior).