Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-Ryu is the source tradition of many Japanese martial arts, and as such received the first ever Intangible Cultural Asset designation given to a martial art in 1960. It claims to have never aligned itself with any estate or faction, no matter what stipend was offered. This allowed the ryu to maintain its independence and integrity.

Blood Oath
Historically, before beginning any training, every prospective pupil had to sign an oath of allegiance to the school. The method was to make keppan (blood oath) in support of the following kisho or kishomon (pledge). This oath was a written one with the prospective member being required to sign his name in his own blood. The applicant would prick or cut a finger or sometimes the inner arm and with the blood drawn, sign the following pledge:

On becoming a member of the I herewith affirm my pledge that:

1.I will not have the impertinence to discuss or demonstrate details of the ryū to either non-members or members, even if they are relatives;
2.I will not engage in altercations or misuse the art against others;
3.I will never engage in any kind of gambling nor frequent disreputable places.
4.I will not cross swords with any followers of other martial traditions without authorization.

I hereby pledge to firmly adhere to each of the above articles. Should I break any of these articles I will submit myself to punishment. Herewith I solemnly swear and affix my blood seal to this oath.

Curriculum
It is a comprehensive martial system. This means that unlike modern martial ways such as Kendo or Iaido, which concentrate on one specific area of training, study is made of a broad range of martial skills and the sword is the most essential element of the art. A wide range of other weapons are being taught as part of the curriculum, but the sword remains the central weapon.

The primary curriculum includes:

FIND US ON