Kyūjutsu 弓術: The art of the Japanese bow and its military impact

El Kyūjutsu (弓術), translated as "the art of the bow", is one of the oldest and most revered martial disciplines in Japan. This art focuses on the use of the yumi (弓), the Japanese longbow, distinguished by its asymmetry and large size. Kyūjutsu represents not only technical skill, but also the spiritual connection between the archer, the bow and the target.

Practiced since ancient times, Kyūjutsu was essential in the training of samurai, evolving from a tool of war to becoming a martial discipline that combines precision, strength and philosophy.

The use of the bow in Japan dates back to the Jōmon period (14,000-300 BC), when the early inhabitants of the archipelago used bows for hunting and defense. Over time, the bow became a key military tool, especially during the Heian period (794-1185), when mounted warriors, known as "yabusame," employed the yumi in battle.

During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), Kyūjutsu became institutionalized as an essential part of samurai training. Warriors trained intensively to master the bow in both mounted and dismounted combat.

With the advent of firearms in the Sengoku period (1467-1615), the military use of the bow began to decline. However, Kyūjutsu remained an important martial discipline, evolving into Kyūdō (弓道), the "way of the bow," which emphasizes spiritual development as well as technique.

The Japanese yumi is unique in design and construction, which sets it apart from other traditional bows.

1. Bow body (弓身 - yumino-mi): Made of bamboo, wood and sometimes fiber, it is extremely flexible and durable.
2. String (弦 - tsuru): Traditionally made of hemp or silk, tight to withstand the high tension of the bow.
3. Grip (握 - nigiri): The middle section of the bow, where it is held, slightly offset towards the base to provide balance.
4. Bow tips (末 - sue): Curved outwards to increase the power and stability of the shot.

The yumi, with an average length of 2 meters, is the longest bow in the world, making it a powerful and accurate weapon in the hands of an experienced archer.

Kyūjutsu is governed by a set of formal movements that ensure precision and effectiveness in each shot. These steps are:

1. Ashibumi (足踏み): Position of the feet to establish stability and balance.
2. Dozukuri (胴造り): Alignment of the posture, ensuring that the body is straight and relaxed.
3. Yugamae (弓構え): Preparing the bow and arrow, establishing a mental connection with the target.
4. Uchiokoshi (打起し): Raising the bow above the head to start shooting.
5. Hikiwake (引分け): Opening the bow, bringing the string towards the face.
6. Kai (会): Moment of pause and concentration before releasing the arrow.
7. Hanare (離れ): Releasing the string, sending the arrow towards the target.
8. Zanshin (残心): Continuation of posture and attention after the shot, showing control and composure.

These steps not only ensure correct technique, but also reinforce the archer's mental discipline.

1. Beech (早矢): Rapid shot used in combat or competitions.
2. Otoya (音矢): Deliberate and slow shooting, used in ceremonial practices.
3. Mounted Shot (騎射 – Kisha): Performed from a moving horse, an essential skill in yabusame.

Kyūjutsu has been preserved over the centuries by various traditional schools, each with its own unique approach.

1. Ogasawara-ryū: Famous for its emphasis on yabusame and ceremonial protocol, this school represents the connection between Kyūjutsu and samurai etiquette.
2. Heki-ryū: Known for its practical and technical approach, ideal for precision in combat.
3. Yoshida-ryū: It stands out for its fluidity in movements and its integration with other martial aspects.
4. Takeda-ryū: Combines Kyūjutsu techniques with mounted combat strategies.
5. Katori Shinto-ryu: One of the oldest schools in Japan, it includes Kyūjutsu as part of its comprehensive weapons training.

1. All Nippon Kyudo Federation (全日本弓道連盟): It emphasizes the practice of Kyūdō as a spiritual and technical path.
2. Zen Nihon Kyudo Renmei: Preserves the traditions of Kyūjutsu while adapting them to a contemporary context.

Each school brings a unique perspective to the art of Kyūjutsu, keeping the tradition alive and adapting it to modern times.

Today, Kyūjutsu is practiced both as a traditional martial art and as a personal development discipline.

Kyūdō, derived from Kyūjutsu, emphasizes the archer's spiritual connection to the universe. More than hitting the target, the goal is to achieve harmony between body, mind and spirit.

Events such as yabusame (mounted archery) and Kyūdō tournaments keep the tradition of Kyūjutsu alive, showcasing its cultural relevance and technical beauty.

Although its use in self-defense is limited, Kyūjutsu remains a tool for improving concentration, discipline and coordination. These qualities make it relevant even in non-martial contexts.

Kyūjutsu is not just a martial art; it is a reflection of the history and philosophy of Japan. Yumi symbolizes the balance between strength and precision, technique and spirituality, and is a reminder of the connection between the warrior and his environment.

Today, Kyūjutsu continues to be practiced around the world, both by martial artists and by those seeking a deeper connection to Japanese traditions. Its legacy lives on in art, literature, and cultural ceremonies, highlighting its influence on Japanese identity.