Tenzan Dōjō: Japanese Martial Arts in the Heart of Belgium

Tenzan Dojo is a traditional martial arts center located in Leuven, Aarschot and Waarsbeek, Belgium, specializing in classical Japanese disciplines such as Genbukan Ninpo, Kokusai Jujutsu Renmei (KJJR) Jujutsu, Goshinjutsu, Koryu Karate, Chugoku Kenpo and Bukijutsu. Founded with the aim of preserving and spreading Japanese budoTenzan Dōjō is a space where martial technique is integrated with a philosophical and ethical approach. In this article we will explore the mission, disciplines and teaching methodology that make Tenzan Dōjō a reference in the practice of traditional martial arts in Europe.

Tenzan Dōjō's mission is to offer comprehensive teaching of Japanese martial arts, inspired by the principles of budo, which emphasizes both physical development and personal and spiritual growth. Since its founding, Tenzan Dōjō has sought to create an environment where students, known as deshi, can develop technical and ethical skills, as well as greater awareness of themselves and their surroundings. Practice at Tenzan Dōjō does not only focus on self-defense or combat, but also on strengthening character and discipline.

Tenzan Dōjō maintains a collaborative learning environment where deshi from different disciplines support each other in their progress. Community is a fundamental aspect of the dojo, as it fosters a sense of unity, mutual respect, and perseverance. Seminars, special classes, and cultural events organized by Tenzan Dojo seek to connect students with the philosophical and cultural roots of Japan, creating a complete martial experience.

El Genbukan Ninpo is a modern form of ninjutsu, founded by Shoto Tanemura, which is based on traditional techniques of ninja clans. This discipline teaches practitioners to adapt to various situations and to employ stealth, defense and combat techniques in a comprehensive approach. Ninpo at Tenzan Dōjō includes striking, immobilizing, throwing and evasive strategies, with an emphasis on flexibility and adaptability.

Genbukan Ninpo is particularly valued in the dōjō for its profound philosophical approach, which promotes the development of a resilient and adaptable mindset in the face of any challenge. In addition, this practice includes the training of the mind and spirit through meditative exercises and the discipline of body and mind control, fundamental aspects for a true warrior.

The Jujutsu of Kokusai Jujutsu Renmei (KJJR) is a traditional Japanese discipline that focuses on self-defense and the use of control and submission techniques to neutralize an opponent. Unlike other combat systems, jujutsu employs flexibility and the use of the opponent's strength, seeking to disarm and neutralize them without resorting to brute force.

At Tenzan Dōjō, KJJR jujutsu is practiced with a focus on efficiency and refined technique, teaching students to control and redirect attacks with precision. Techniques include locks, levers, throws, and chokes, which are essential to disabling an aggressor. This practice is complemented by ethical training that emphasizes self-control, humility, and respect for one's opponent.

Goshinjutsu Goshinjutsu is a self-defense system that combines techniques from various martial arts to offer an effective solution to potential attacks. Unlike traditional martial arts, goshinjutsu is adapted to modern self-defense situations, providing students with practical and rapid tools to react to attacks in real life.

At Tenzan Dōjō, goshinjutsu is taught in a pragmatic manner, with an emphasis on simplicity and techniques that can be applied by people of all ages and physical abilities. This discipline is especially valued at the dōjō for its focus on personal safety and its usefulness in dangerous situations, helping students to build their confidence and ability to respond.

Koryu Karate It is a traditional form of karate that retains the original teachings of the ancient schools (koryu), in contrast to the modern forms of karate that are commonly seen. This art is characterized by its focus on striking techniques, blocks and postures that strengthen the body and develop a strong and disciplined character.

Koryu Karate practice at Tenzan Dōjō includes kata (pre-established sequences of movements), kumite (combat practice) and kihon (basic techniques) exercises, promoting a balance between technique and mentality. Through constant practice, students develop physical strength, flexibility and a focus on precision. This style is valued for its ability to strengthen both the body and the spirit, becoming a tool for personal development.

El Chugoku Kenpo Chugoku Kenpo is a Japanese martial art style based on techniques from Chinese kenpo. This discipline combines fast and fluid movements with a focus on effective self-defense, using striking techniques, blocks and evasive strategies. At Tenzan Dōjō, Chugoku Kenpo is a dynamic and versatile practice that helps students improve their agility, speed and coordination.

Unlike other more rigid disciplines, Chugoku Kenpo allows great freedom of movement and fosters adaptability. This discipline is particularly useful for those seeking a self-defense practice with efficient and fluid movements, combining strength and flexibility in a style characterized by speed and precision in execution.

Bukijutsu is the discipline that encompasses the use of traditional Japanese weapons, such as the bokken (wooden sword), the bō (long staff) and the tanto (dagger). This practice focuses on armed combat techniques that were developed and used by the samurai in Japan, and which require precision, coordination and great mental control.

At Tenzan Dōjō, bukijutsu is taught with a focus on control, precision and respect for the weapon and the opponent.This discipline not only trains combat skills, but also develops the ability to concentrate and fosters a calm and self-controlled mindset. Students learn stances, cuts and blocks that strengthen their martial ability and improve their spatial awareness and control.

Teaching at Tenzan Dōjō is tailored to the needs and abilities of each student, allowing them to develop their skills at their own pace. Instructors offer close and attentive guidance, ensuring that each deshi understands not only the technique, but also the philosophy underlying each discipline. Gradual instruction allows students to progress safely and soundly, mastering the basic principles before moving on to more complex techniques.

At Tenzan Dōjō, "reishiki" or etiquette is a fundamental practice. This includes respect for one's fellow students and the training space, as well as taking care of one's uniform and weapons. Reishiki strengthens the atmosphere of harmony and discipline in the dojo, reminding practitioners of the importance of respect and order as core values ​​of traditional martial arts.

Tenzan Dōjō organizes regular seminars that include intensive training and special classes taught by international masters. These events are an opportunity for students to deepen their knowledge and improve their technique, as well as to exchange experiences with practitioners from other regions.

In addition, the dojo conducts cultural activities and meetings that bring students closer to Japanese culture, allowing for a deeper understanding of the history and philosophy behind each discipline. These activities range from meditative practices to calligraphy sessions and tea ceremonies, thus complementing technical learning with an enriching cultural perspective.

Training at Tenzan Dōjō strengthens both the body and the mind, allowing students to develop patience, self-control and confidence. The practice of disciplines such as jujutsu and ninpo encourages introspection and inner growth, helping practitioners to overcome their own limits.

Training improves strength, endurance and flexibility, as well as developing better coordination and agility. Disciplines such as Koryu Karate and Kenpo strengthen the body and hone motor skills, providing long-term health benefits.

The community at Tenzan Dōjō is an essential aspect of the experience. Cooperation and support between deshi creates an environment in which each student feels motivated to improve and persevere, forming lasting bonds based on shared dedication and respect.

Tenzan Dōjō is a unique martial arts centre in Belgium that provides comprehensive training in traditional Japanese disciplines. Through an approach that combines technique, philosophy and respect for Japanese culture, the dōjō not only teaches martial skills, but also promotes personal growth and mental discipline. For those seeking an authentic experience in Japanese budo, Tenzan Dōjō is a place where tradition and personal development come together in an atmosphere of respect and dedication.