Shingyoto Ryu: Strategy and Spirit in Combat

El Shingyoto Ryu is one of ancient Japanese fencing schools or koryu bujutsu, developed in Japan during the Edo period. Founded by the Iba family, this school focuses on the handling of the sabre or katana and is noted for both its focus on combat techniques and its spiritual philosophy, which seeks a balance between body, mind and spirit. Shingyoto Ryu, whose name can be translated as “School of the True Way,” offers a series of unique techniques and strategies, aimed at a deep understanding of the adversary and the practitioner himself.

Next, we will explore the history of Shingyoto Ryu, its technical and philosophical principles, and its relevance in the current context of Japanese martial arts.

Shingyoto Ryu was founded in the 17th century by Iba Josuke Tadaaki, a talented swordsman who had studied other schools of kenjutsu before developing his own style. Tradition holds that Iba Tadaaki had perfected his swordsmanship in Owari Kan Ryu y Nen Ryu, two of the oldest kenjutsu schools in Japan. However, his desire to delve deeper into the strategic and spiritual principles of combat led him to create his own style.

The creation of Shingyoto Ryu is influenced by the idea of shin, gi y to, which represent the concepts of “mind,” “technique,” ​​and “sword.” This implies a fusion of Zen philosophy, a technical understanding of the weapon, and a profound vision of the discipline as a path to spiritual enlightenment. Over time, the school expanded throughout Japan, attracting practitioners and gaining renown among samurai for its effectiveness and depth.

As Shingyoto Ryu grew, the Iba family continued to hone its techniques and teachings. Tadaaki's son, Iba Zesuiken Tadatsugu, took over leadership and established a formal lineage that would endure for generations. The school became primarily associated with the Tokugawa clan, and many high-ranking samurai became its students.

During the Meiji era, when the samurai caste system was abolished, many martial arts faced significant challenges. However, Shingyoto Ryu managed to adapt to modern times without losing its traditional foundations. Today, the school still exists in Japan and has a small but dedicated group of practitioners who study the art in its traditional form.

In Shingyoto Ryu, swordsmanship is not limited to physical strength or manual dexterity; it focuses on strategy, situational awareness, and internal control. This style places a strong emphasis on Fast and precise techniques aimed at neutralizing the opponent in the shortest possible time. These techniques usually involve fluid and natural movements that allow the practitioner to take advantage of both his own center of gravity and that of the opponent.

1. Kiriotoshi: This technique involves a series of downward cuts executed with precision, focusing on timing and fluidity. It is one of the fundamental techniques of Shingyoto Ryu and requires great skill in the control of the katana.

2. Metsuke (The Look): One of the key principles is the ability to read the opponent through the gaze. The technique of metsuke helps the practitioner to remain calm and observe without being observed, a vital component in anticipating the moves of an experienced opponent.

3. Sen no Sen and Go no Sen: Shingyoto Ryu makes use of these strategic concepts to attack or defend depending on the moment. Sen no Sen involves anticipating the opponent's attack, while Go no Sen refers to responding after the attack. Both strategies require a deep understanding of the rhythm and the right moment to act.

Shingyoto Ryu uses several postures or guards (kamae) which allow the practitioner to adapt to different combat situations. Among the most common are:

• Jodan no Kamae: High guard position, where the katana is held above the practitioner's head. It is an offensive and challenging posture.

• Chudan no Kamae: The middle guard, ideal for maintaining a neutral position and ready to attack or defend as needed.

• The Great Kamae: The lowered guard, which serves to attract the opponent to attack, allowing for a quick and precise response.

Every stance in Shingyoto Ryu is designed not only to defend, but to create counterattacking opportunities.

The motto of Shingyoto Ryu, Shin, Gi, To, symbolizes the union between mind, technique and sword. This trinity is fundamental to practitioners, as it indicates that mastery of the sword cannot be achieved without harmonizing mind and technique. The school promotes the idea that true victory lies not in defeating an external opponent, but in overcoming one's own internal limitations, such as fear, doubt and ego.

For Shingyoto Ryu practitioners, the path of budo It is both a physical discipline and a spiritual process. The regular practice of the art focuses on perfecting the character of the individual, promoting values ​​such as humility, discipline, and respect for others. The ultimate goal is to achieve a calm and clear mind, capable of reacting with precision and serenity in any situation.

The influence of Zen In Shingyoto Ryu, this is evident in its teachings on emptiness (or “mu”) and the importance of acting without attachment to the outcome. The practitioner must learn to respond spontaneously and naturally, without the mind being hampered by negative emotions. This Zen approach is not only essential in combat, but in everyday life, where it helps to cultivate a calm and objective perspective.

In contemporary Japan, Shingyoto Ryu continues to be practiced by a select group of individuals who value the preservation of ancient traditions. Although the number of practitioners has dwindled compared to the rise of other arts such as kendo or judo, Shingyoto Ryu remains relevant due to its focus on authenticity and depth of practice. The school is a reminder of the values ​​and disciplines that formed the foundation of feudal Japan and which continue to have application in the personal development of its students.

Currently, several practitioners of kendo y iaido have found in Shingyoto Ryu a valuable complement to their training. The traditional techniques and strategic approach of the school provide a more complete understanding of Japanese fencing, something that is inspiring for those seeking a connection with classical teachings. Some elements of Shingyoto Ryu have been integrated into modern training, enriching the technical and philosophical repertoire of martial arts practitioners.

The transmission of knowledge in Shingyoto Ryu is carried out in a traditional way, through menkyo kaiden (full transmission license), granted only to those practitioners who have demonstrated a deep understanding of both the techniques and philosophical principles. This practice ensures that the art remains true to its roots and its essential teachings are protected.

The practice of Shingyoto Ryu demands total commitment from the student, who must not only hone his technical skills, but also develop the capacity for introspection and self-control. Many practitioners begin with basic posture and swordplay exercises, and then progress to kata (pre-established forms) that simulate real combat situations. As the training progresses, the student deepens his understanding of advanced strategic concepts and the application of budō philosophy.

Shingyoto Ryu Shingyoto Ryu is not just a school of kenjutsu; it is a path to self-knowledge and inner harmony. By focusing on the intersection between technique, mind and spirit, this ancient tradition offers a holistic view of combat and personal development. Although few people practice this art today, Shingyoto Ryu remains one of the jewels of traditional Japanese martial arts, a legacy that allows practitioners to connect with the values ​​and teachings of feudal Japan.

In an increasingly fast-paced world, Shingyoto Ryu’s meditative approach and commitment to excellence is a reminder of the importance of patience, discipline and respect. For those seeking more than just a physical practice, Shingyoto Ryu offers a gateway to a deeper understanding of life and self.