Koryu: The 25 Legendary Schools of Japan and their Martial Legacy

Japanese martial arts are known for their depth and rich history, especially the "koryu", traditional schools that have endured through the centuries. Are martial schools They not only teach combat techniques, but also instill values ​​such as respect, discipline and spirituality. In this article, we will explore the 25 most famous koryu in Japan, each with its unique history and significant contribution to the martial arts.

Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu, founded in 1447 by Iizasa Choisai Ienao, is a revered school of Japanese martial arts. With almost 600 years of history, it stands out for its focus on the use of swords and traditional weapons. This ryuha has influenced many other schools, such as Yagyu Shinkage-ryu and Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryu. Their practices focus on spiritual development, precision and combat skill with katana, naginata and other ancient weapons. Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu has left an indelible mark on the world of Japanese martial arts, being a bastion of tradition and excellence.

Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryu (鹿島神伝直心影流) is a venerable Japanese school of martial arts that dates back to the Edo era. Founded by Matsumoto Bizen-no-kami Naokatsu in the 17th century, this ryuha is notable for its emphasis on the use of the katana and naginata, as well as the spiritual development of the practitioner. The tradition of Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryu It has influenced other kenjutsu schools and has maintained its focus on precision and combat efficiency. This school has become a pillar of Japanese martial arts, transmitting valuable knowledge about weapons handling and samurai philosophy.

Yagyū Shinkage-ryū (柳生新陰流) is a distinguished school of Japanese martial arts that has been around for centuries. Founded in the 16th century by Yagyū Munetoshi, it specializes in kenjutsu (the art of the sword) and the use of the katana. This ryuha is characterized by its focus on efficiency and precision in combat, as well as the spiritual and philosophical development of its practitioners. Yagyū Shinkage-ryū has had a significant influence on the world of Japanese martial arts and has left a lasting mark on sword training, being appreciated for her tactical wisdom and samurai ethics.

Asayama Ichiden-ryū (浅山一伝流) is a respected school of Japanese martial arts that originated in the 17th century. Founded by Asayama Ichidensai Shigetatsu, this ryuha specializes in the use of the katana and other traditional Japanese weapons. Its focus is on simplicity, effectiveness and adaptability in combat, making it a school appreciated for both its technique and its philosophy. Although less well known than some of the larger schools,Asayama Ichiden-ryū has maintained its heritage and continues to transmit valuable knowledge about the art of the sword, contributing to the rich heritage of Japanese martial arts

Musō Jikiden Eishin-ryū (無双直伝英信流) is a renowned school of kenjutsu (the art of the sword) that has its roots in feudal Japan. Founded by Hōjo Awa no Kami Eishin in the 17th century, this ryuha focuses on katana handling and is known for its focus on direct and effective cutting techniques. Musō Jikiden Eishin-ryū has remained true to its traditions throughout the centuries, teaching both technical skills and samurai philosophy. He has influenced other Japanese fencing schools and remains a valuable source of knowledge about the art of the sword.

Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, an ancient school of Japanese martial arts, was founded by Sokaku Takeda in 1930. This koryu (traditional school) is characterized by its focus on Aiki techniques, which involve the harmonization of energy and control of the opponent. Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu It is based on fluid movements and the efficient application of force. Throughout its history, this ryuha has influenced other martial arts schools, such as Aikido founded by Morihei Ueshiba and Korean Hapkido. With its rich heritage and emphasis on self-defense, Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu remains a relevant and respected discipline.

Hōki-ryū (伯耆流) is an ancient school of Japanese martial arts that dates back to the Edo era. Founded by Shichirōzaemon Fujii in the 17th century, this ryuha specializes in Jujutsu and Kenjutsu. Hōki-ryū stands out for its hand-to-hand combat techniques and the efficient use of weapons such as the katana. Over the years, it has influenced other ryuha, including the Shingyōtō-ryū and the Kage-ryū. Its focus on strategy and precision makes Hōki-ryū It is a valuable tradition within the world of Japanese martial arts, retaining its relevance over time.

Tatsumi-ryū (立身流) is an ancient school of Japanese martial arts that originated in the Kamakura period, founded by Tatsumi Sankyo, and focuses on Kenjutsu (sword art) and Iaijutsu (sword drawing art). This ryuha is distinguished by its emphasis on sword techniques and the ability to react quickly in combat situations. Along its history, Tatsumi-ryū has influenced other ryuha, such as Musō Jikiden Eishin-ryū and the Mugai-ryū. His legacy endures as a valuable tradition in Japanese martial arts, preserving his teachings of strategy and precision.

Shinkage-ryū (新陰流) is a respected koryu (traditional school) of Japanese martial arts that has its roots in the 16th century. Founded by Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (art of the sword) and Iaido (art of drawing the sword). Shinkage-ryū It is distinguished by its focus on speed and efficiency in sword combat, as well as its emphasis on strategy and mental control. He has influenced other koryu schools, such as Ittō-ryū and Jikishinkage-ryū. His legacy endures as a valuable tradition in Japanese martial arts, with a rich history of teaching skill and discipline.

Takenouchi-ryū (竹内流) is an ancient koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that originated in the 16th century. Founded by Takenouchi Hisamori, this ryuha focuses on Jujutsu and Kenjutsu, standing out for its emphasis on grappling, throwing, and hand-to-hand combat techniques. Takenouchi-ryū It has influenced other ryuha, such as the Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū and the Yagyū Shinkage-ryū. Its rich history and teachings of strategy and control remain a valuable part of the Japanese martial arts heritage, maintaining its relevance over time.

Maniwa Nen-ryū (馬庭念流) is a distinguished koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that originated in the Sengoku period. Founded by Maniwa Nenami, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (sword art) and Iaijutsu (sword drawing art), emphasizing speed and precision in sword combat. Maniwa Nen-ryū It has influenced other ryuha, such as the Musō Shinden-ryū and the Mugai-ryū. His legacy endures as a valuable tradition within the world of Japanese martial arts, with a rich history of teachings encompassing strategy and control, continuing to be relevant throughout the centuries.

Kashima Shin-ryū (鹿島新流) is a venerable koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that originated in the 17th century. Founded by Tsukahara Bokuden, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (sword art), Iaijutsu (sword drawing art), and Jujutsu (hand-to-hand combat art). Kashima Shin-ryū It is known for its emphasis on efficiency, precision, and strategy in combat. She has influenced other ryuha, including the Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū and the Yagyū Shinkage-ryū. Her legacy endures as a valuable tradition in Japanese martial arts, transmitting centuries of martial wisdom and skills.

Sekiguchi-ryū (関口流) is a distinguished koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts with origins dating back centuries. Founded by Sekiguchi Yūshin in the 18th century, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (art of the sword) and Iaijutsu (art of drawing the sword). Sekiguchi-ryū He is noted for his fluid and precise sword techniques, as well as his emphasis on strategy and a combat-focused mind. Throughout its history, it has influenced other ryuha within Japanese martial arts. Their legacy lives on as a valuable tradition, passing on centuries of martial knowledge and skills to future generations.

Nen-ryū (念流) is a distinguished koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts with a rich history dating back centuries. Founded by a visionary master, this ryuha specializes in various disciplines, including Kenjutsu (art of the sword), Iaijutsu (art of drawing the sword) and Jujutsu (art of hand-to-hand combat). Nen-ryū is known for its focus on mastery of techniques, strategy, and the mind-body connection in combat. Throughout her illustrious history, she has left a mark on other ryuha in the world of Japanese martial arts, passing down martial wisdom and skills through the generations. Her legacy endures as a valuable tradition, enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts.

Hyōhō Niten Ichi-ryū (兵法二天一流) is a prominent koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that has its roots in the 17th century. Founded by the legendary Miyamoto Musashi, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (sword art) and is known for its focus on using two swords simultaneously, a technique known as "Nito-ryu." Hyōhō Niten Ichi-ryū It stands out for its emphasis on strategy, versatility and precision in combat. Throughout its history, it has influenced other ryuha and left a lasting mark on Japanese martial arts. His legacy remains a valuable tradition, passing on Musashi's teachings through the generations.

Shintō Musō-ryū (神道夢想流) is a venerable koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts with a legacy that spans the centuries. Founded by the skilled and visionary warrior Musō Gonnosuke Katsuyoshi in the 17th century, this ryuha specializes in the art of Jojutsu (the use of the short staff) and Kenjutsu (art of the sword). Shintō Musō-ryū It stands out for its deep focus on strategy, precision, and controlling the opponent with a single stick. Throughout his illustrious history, he has left a lasting mark on the world of Japanese martial arts and has influenced other ryuha. His legacy endures as a valuable inheritance, transmitting the skills and wisdom of Musō Gonnosuke through the generations, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts.

Tamiya-ryū (田宮流) is a venerable koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts dating back centuries. Founded by Tamiya Heibei Narimasa in the 16th century, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (art of the sword) and Iaijutsu (art of drawing the sword). Tamiya-ryū It has left a profound influence on other ryuha, such as the Shinkage-ryū and the Nakanishi-ha Ittō-ryū, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts. His legacy persists as a valuable inheritance, transmitting the skills and prowess of Tamiya Heibei Narimasa through the generations, contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.

Yoshin-ryū (楊心流) is a koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts with roots dating back centuries. Founded by Akiyama Yoshin-ryū in the 17th century, this ryuha specializes in Jujutsu, focusing on grappling, dislocation, and throwing techniques. Yoshin-ryū has left a profound influence on other ryuha, such as Shingyōtō-ryū and Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts. His legacy endures as a valuable inheritance, transmitting the skills and principles of Akiyama Yoshin-ryū through the generations, contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.

Kurama-ryū (鞍馬流) It is a koryu (traditional) Japanese martial arts that has endured throughout the centuries. Founded in the 17th century, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (sword art) and Iaijutsu (sword drawing art). Kurama-ryū She is known for her emphasis on speed and precision in sword combat, as well as her focus on strategy and mind control. Throughout her history, she has left a mark on other ryuha, influencing the development of schools such as the Hokushin Ittō-ryū and the Yagyū Shinkage-ryū. Her legacy remains a valuable tradition, transmitting centuries of wisdom and martial skills through the generations, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts.

Hontai Yoshin-ryū (本體楊心流) It is a koryu (traditional) Japanese martial arts that has survived through the centuries. Founded in the Edo period by Takagi Oriuemon Shigenobu, this ryuha specializes in Jujutsu, standing out for its grip, dislocation and projection techniques. Hontai Yoshin-ryū has had a profound influence on other ryuha, such as the Shingyōtō-ryū and the Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, thus enriching the legacy of Japanese martial arts. His tradition endures as a cultural treasure, passing down the skill and wisdom of Takagi Oriuemon Shigenobu from generation to generation, and contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.

Shojitsu Kenri Kataichi-ryū (初實剣理方一流) is a koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that has endured through the centuries. Founded in the Edo period, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (sword art) and Iaijutsu (sword drawing art). Shojitsu Kenri Kataichi-ryū is known for its emphasis on efficiency, precision, and strategy in sword combat. She has left a deep mark on other ryuha, influencing the development of schools such as the Musō Shinden-ryū and the Mugai-ryū. Her legacy endures as a valuable tradition, transmitting centuries of wisdom and martial skills through generations, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts.

Jigen-ryū (示現流) is an ancient koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that has maintained its relevance throughout the centuries. Founded in the Edo period, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (sword art) and Iaijutsu (sword drawing art). Jigen-ryū is known for its emphasis on precision, speed, and strategy in sword combat. She has left a lasting influence on other ryuha, such as the Musō Shinden-ryū and the Tamiya-ryū, enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts. His legacy persists as a valuable tradition, transmitting centuries of martial knowledge and skills through generations, contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.

Kukishin-ryū (九鬼神流) is a venerable koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that has endured through the centuries. Founded in the Sengoku period by Izumo Kanja Yoshiteru, this ryuha specializes in a variety of disciplines, including Jujutsu, Kenjutsu, and Shurikenjutsu (the art of throwing shuriken). Kukishin-ryū She is known for her focus on agility, versatility, and strategy in combat. She has influenced other ryuha, such as Togakure-ryū and Gyokko-ryū, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts. Her legacy endures as a valuable tradition, transmitting centuries of wisdom and martial skills through generations, contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.

Ittō-ryū (一刀流) is a prominent koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts that has left a lasting mark on history. Founded in the Edo period by Itō Ittōsai Kagehisa, this ryuha specializes in Kenjutsu (art of the sword) and Iaijutsu (art of drawing the sword). Ittō-ryū is known for its focus on efficient use of the sword, with techniques that focus on precise and devastating attacks. It has influenced other ryuha, such as Hokushin Ittō-ryū and Shintō Musō-ryū, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts. His legacy persists as a valuable tradition, transmitting centuries of martial skills and wisdom across generations, and contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.

Suiō-ryū Iai Kenpo (水鷗流居合剣法) is a respected koryu (traditional) school of Japanese martial arts dating back centuries. Founded in the Edo period, this ryuha specializes in Iaijutsu (art of drawing the sword) and Kenjutsu (art of the sword), focusing on precise and efficient sword techniques. Suiō-ryū It has influenced other ryuha, such as the Musō Shinden-ryū and the Mugai-ryū, thus enriching the heritage of Japanese martial arts. His legacy endures as a valuable tradition, transmitting centuries of wisdom and martial skills through generations, contributing to the continued development of Japanese martial arts.