We offer a broad range of instructional books. These books will help you both with the philosophy of training as well as demonstrating proper technique.
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A compilation of writings of many famous samurai covering centuries of the Japanese feudal period. Most of the writings were written to be left to family and clan members as a guide in conduct and behavior. This book offers a deep insight into how the samurai thought and lived thier lives, and what they held to be important. The authors of these writings range in time period from the 12th to the 17th century. Their teaching and admonitions have value for those of us who hold the warrior ideal in modern society. Softcover, 144 pages
An excellent well illustrated how to book on naginata-do. Step by step instruction with illusrations of each step. The book covers basic stances and footwork, attack and defense, and the rules for competitions. Softcover.
Predecessor of Judo and precursor of today's ultimate fighting styles, Jujitsu is a martial art developed by the elite samurai class during Japan's feudal era. For centuries, this method of unarmed self-defense proved so successful in comabt that it was kept secret and taught to a select few. Based on the author's study with instructors of the Tokyo police department, this book features the traditional techniques of Jujitsu, also known as ju jutsu. It addresses and demonstrates Kaisho Goshin Budo Taiho Jitsu ryu. Specific techniques covered include the use of hands, throwing an opponent, attacking vital points with strikes and kicks and the use of weapons such as the staff. Softbound.
Kyudo is a deeply rooted tradition. It not only continues to enjoy wide spread popularity in Japan, it is also attracting the interest of more and more foreigners, in much the same manner as Japan's distinctive sports, such as judo, sumo, kendo and karate. Kyudo: The Japanese Art of Archery offers a concise description of kyudo by an ardent American enthusiast...
This is the best book of its kind in the English language. Kyudo, The Way of the Bow, is the oldest of Japan's traditional martial arts and the one most closely associated with bushido, the Way of the Warrior. Onuma Sensei who died in 1990 was the 15th generation headmaster of Heki Ryu Sekka-ha school of archery...
Calligraphy, along with poetry and painting, has been for centuries in China and Japan a discipline all students of culture had to master. Proficiency in brush writing reflected a high degree of inner character, and this is why many great masters of calligraphy were respected Zen priests, warriors, and emperors. Complemented with over 300 illustrations, this book extensively explores the techniques, history, and philosophy of this exciting art. Visually attractive, highly informative, and written with a special enthusiasm, this is fledging calligrapher's basic reference book. Paperback, 173 pages.
With this beginner's guide, you can create Japanese ink painting landscapes and portraits. Lessons begin with a discussion of equipment, The use of the brush, and the basics of ink-making. The clear line drawings, how-to-photographs, and step-by-step instructions show you how to make each of the twenty traditional motifs included. Examples of finished paintings are aslo supplied. Softcover.
The original purpose of Iaido was to slay an opponent with one stroke of the sword upon unsheathing; today it is practiced as a martial art, one that improves concentration, develops strength and coordination, and cultivates awareness of an ancient culture and its traditions. This manual of Eishin-ryu or "Pure Faith" iaido, teaches the most widely practiced sword style, and is illustrated with step-by-step drawings to help students, from beginners to advanced, hone their forms and techniques. Introductory chapters explain the history and evolution of the art, the Japanese sword and related equipment, and the etiquette and code of the samurai, while an extensive glossary and bibliography are provided for further reference. Softcover, 264 pages. Nicholas Suino
The first book giving the reader everything needed to begin writing or teaching haiku, Japanese poetry. Not only are the four great Japanese masters of the haiku represented (Basho, Buson, Issa and Shiki) but also several major western authors not commonly known to have written haiku. Full chapters are offered on form, the seasons in haiku, and haiku craft, plus background on the Japanese poetic tradition and the effect of translation on our understanding of haiku. Softcover.
This book is the first of it's kind to appear in English that offers a detailed visual introduction to the techniques of Daito ryu tradition. Heavily illustrated with approximately 800 photographs, it gives a clear, complete picture of the steps involved in about 90 techniques. Its substantial section on history and theory takes a close look at the Daito ryu's historical background and philosophy, while a glossary of terms provides a handy list of the most important items. Hardcover, 216 pages.
