Kanemaki-ryū Kenjutsu: Secrets of the Feudal Samurai

Kanemaki-ryū It is an old school of kenjutsu (剣術), the art of Japanese swordsmanship, whose history and tradition date back to the feudal era of Japan. Founded in the 17th century, Kanemaki-ryū is one of the many koryū (traditional schools) that focused on training samurai warriors in the effective use of the katana in combat. With a focus on precision, strategy, and martial philosophy, Kanemaki-ryū not only taught sword techniques, but also conveyed the values ​​of discipline, ethics, and spirituality unique to Japanese budo. In this article, we will explore the history, techniques, and impact of Kanemaki-ryū on Japanese martial arts.

Kanemaki-ryū was founded in the 17th century, during the Edo period, by Kanemaki Jisai, a master swordsman who specialized in sword fighting techniques. The school emerged in a time of relative peace in Japan, where armed conflicts between samurai clans were diminishing due to the control of the Tokugawa shogunate. Despite this peace, samurai continued to train in martial arts to maintain their skills and preserve their warrior spirit.

Kanemaki Jisai developed his style based on the principles of precision and economy of movement. His approach was one of direct, controlled combat, designed to neutralize the opponent quickly and effectively. Kanemaki-ryū techniques focus on attacks as well as blocks and deflections, promoting the optimal use of each movement and minimizing physical and mental wear and tear.

Along the centuries, Kanemaki-ryū has remained a highly respected kenjutsu school and is still practiced by those interested in preserving the traditions of feudal Japan. Although sword fighting has fallen out of common practice, the legacy of Kanemaki-ryū lives on through its teaching of budo and the philosophy underlying the art of the sword.

Kanemaki-ryū is known for its focus on the economy of motion, a principle that seeks to maximize efficiency and minimize physical effort in each technique. This concept teaches practitioners to use only the energy and movement necessary to neutralize the opponent, avoiding unnecessary gestures that may expose them to risk. This philosophy is reflected in the simplicity and fluidity of the movements, which seek direct and controlled effectiveness.

The mental state of "zanshin" (残心) is essential in Kanemaki-ryū and in kenjutsu in general.Zanshin represents the ability to maintain complete alertness and concentration, both during and after combat. For the Kanemaki-ryū practitioner, this mindset allows for a keen awareness of his surroundings and a readiness to react at any moment. Zanshin fosters calmness and self-control, qualities indispensable for a samurai, both in combat and in daily life.

Training in Kanemaki-ryū is based on the practice of kata (型), sequences of pre-set movements that simulate combat situations. These kata are an essential tool for internalizing the technique, rhythm, and timing necessary for real combat. Rather than practicing single movements, students learn to integrate attacks, blocks, and counterattacks in a constant flow, reflecting the school's economy of movement and precision.

Some of the most characteristic kata of Kanemaki-ryū include basic defense and attack movements.and kiri otoshi (downward cut), the tsuki (thrust) and advanced techniques for counterattacking and deflecting the opponent's katana. Each kata is practiced with a partner to simulate a realistic situation, and its constant repetition allows the practitioner to perfect the timing and precision of their movements.

Kanemaki-ryū places special emphasis on the kiri or cutting techniques, which consist of a series of katana cuts designed to be fast, precise and lethal. These include vertical, horizontal and diagonal cuts, as well as blocking and deflection techniques that allow the practitioner to maintain control of distance and position in front of his opponent. Cutting techniques are developed with the intention of incapacitating the opponent in the shortest possible time, reinforcing the principle of efficiency and economy.

El kumitachi (組太刀) is a partner practice that allows Kanemaki-ryū students to experience kenjutsu in a dynamic situation. Through these exercises, students learn to apply their techniques in a simulated combat context, where they can develop their ability to read their opponent's movements and react accurately. Kumitachi emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and sword control, and allows the practitioner to experience distance and timing under pressure conditions.

Training in Kanemaki-ryū goes beyond technique and emphasizes the teaching of the principles of Bushido, or "way of the warrior," an ethical code that guides the life of the samurai. Bushidō promotes virtues such as respect, loyalty, honesty, courage, and self-control. For the practitioner of Kanemaki-ryū, mastering the sword is both a physical skill and an expression of these virtues, which must be cultivated in every aspect of one's life.

Practice in Kanemaki-ryū instills a deep respect for the katana and the opponent. Respect for the weapon involves recognizing its power and handling it responsibly, while respect for the opponent reflects the combat ethic of Japanese budo, which values ​​the dignity of all participants in the conflict. This mindset helps develop deep humility and an attitude of care and responsibility in every technique.

Training in Kanemaki-ryū improves physical fitness, coordination and balance. The constant practice of kata and cutting techniques strengthens the muscles and increases flexibility. Correct posture and breathing control also help improve alignment and physical endurance, aspects that are essential for the practice of kenjutsu.

Kanemaki-ryū trains not only the body, but also the mind. The concentration and alertness that training demands develops mental skills such as patience, self-control, and the ability to make quick decisions in times of stress. These skills are applied in all aspects of life, providing greater mental clarity and a balanced approach to challenging situations.

One of the greatest benefits of practicing Kanemaki-ryū is the integration of budo philosophy into each technique. The practitioner not only learns how to use the sword, but also understands the values ​​and ethics that underlie the way of the warrior. This deep understanding makes Kanemaki-ryū more than just a physical practice; it is a path of self-knowledge and spiritual development.

Despite its antiquity, Kanemaki-ryū continues to be practiced by martial arts enthusiasts and koryu around the world. Although no longer used in combat, the school upholds a tradition of discipline, ethics and technique that continues to inspire new generations. Today, Kanemaki-ryū is taught in dōjōs and martial arts schools that seek to preserve the techniques and philosophy of this classic discipline.

For modern practitioners, Kanemaki-ryū offers a direct connection to Japan's samurai past and an opportunity to experience the spirit of kenjutsu in its traditional form. Through practice, students not only improve their technical skills, but also experience a path of personal growth that allows them to apply the principles of budo in their daily lives.

Kanemaki-ryū is more than a swordsmanship school; it is a way of life that teaches its practitioners to seek precision and clarity in every movement. With its focus on economy of movement, respect, and discipline, this school of kenjutsu represents the spirit of the samurai warrior in its purest essence. For those seeking a deep experience in kenjutsu and wishing to develop a comprehensive understanding of Japanese budo, Kanemaki-ryū offers a path of learning that goes beyond technique, toward self-knowledge and spiritual connection to the way of the warrior.