The Samurai Father of Japanese Martial Arts

The world of Japanese martial arts is incredibly rich, and among the most popular forms are disciplines such as karate, aikido, and judo. All these martial arts (excluding sumo and perhaps ninjutsu) have their origins either in traditional Chinese kung fu or in a uniquely Japanese fighting style. This was a style practiced by medieval samurai during the Sengoku period—a time of permanent war between samurai clans. It was during this time that the oldest native Japanese fighting forms were formalized, which over the centuries transformed into modern disciplines. The family of these martial arts is jujutsu (柔術 – literally, "technique of flexibility"). In this context, the oldest school of jujutsu holds a special place: Takenouchi-ryū, which—aside from sumo schools—is the oldest Japanese unarmed combat school and the foundation of many later martial arts.

(jujutsu—also spelled ju-jitsu, is the same; the difference is only in transliteration. However, it is different from (Brazilian) jiu-jitsu).

Founded in the 16th century by the samurai Takenouchi Hisamori, this school is regarded as one of the most important traditions of jujutsu—a martial art that was the basis for unarmed (weaponless) combat training for samurai. In times when warriors had to be prepared for combat both with and without weapons, Takenouchi-ryū gained fame for its effectiveness on the battlefield. It was a school that prepared warriors not only for duels but also for brutal and dynamic combat in war.

Jujutsu is not just an art of physical combat—it is also a moral and spiritual system intended to fully shape the samurai, both in terms of battle readiness and inner strength. The founder, Hisamori Takenouchi, aimed to create a system that combined combat effectiveness with high spiritual discipline. In Takenouchi-ryū, physical strength was just one element—mastery of body, mind, and spirit was also crucial, as these together would bring harmony and effectiveness in any combat situation.

Today, we will take a deeper look at the history of the Takenouchi-ryū school, starting from its legendary origins, through the techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries, to the influence it had on other jujutsu schools and the shaping of modern martial arts such as judo, aikido, or Brazilian jiu-jitsu. We will get to know the figure of Hisamori himself, his vision of martial arts, and how his teachings have survived and gained respect not only in Japan but worldwide.

Life of Takenouchi Hisamori

Takenouchi Hisamori, the founder of the oldest and most influential jujutsu school—Takenouchi-ryū, is both a historical and legendary figure. He was born in 1503, into a samurai family in Kyoto, and his Takenouchi clan descended from the powerful Minamoto clan, which had direct connections to the imperial court. In the turbulent Sengoku period, when Japan was torn apart by constant wars between rival clans, Hisamori, like many samurai, sought effective combat methods that could give him an edge on the battlefield.

The Founder’s Vision

During his youth, Hisamori honed his combat skills and gained experience on the battlefield—during the Sengoku period, large and small battles were almost a daily occurrence. However, he was not satisfied with physical strength or mere combat effectiveness. His goal was to create a complete martial art that would not only provide an advantage in battle but also enable the samurai to develop spiritually and morally. In 1532, at the age of 29, he decided to undertake an ascetic pilgrimage to the Sannomiya shrine, located in the remote mountainous region of Mimasaka, in western Japan. There, for six days and six nights, he fasted, prayed, and refined his combat techniques, seeking inspiration.

Legend has it that during this pilgrimage, he was visited by a mysterious monk who revealed himself to be an incarnation of the deity Atago. This monk supposedly taught Hisamori new techniques of unarmed combat and the use of a short sword, along with grappling moves that could be used in close-quarters armed combat. A key moment of this encounter was Hisamori’s realization that effectiveness did not depend solely on the strength of the attacker or the length of the weapon, but on precision, tactics, and control. It was at this moment, according to tradition, that Takenouchi-ryū was born.

After Returning

After his mystical experience, Hisamori returned to his homeland and began systematizing his techniques, creating the structure of the Takenouchi-ryū school. This system quickly gained recognition not only among samurai but also at the imperial court. His techniques were unique because they combined unarmed combat with the use of short blades, binding opponents with ropes, and other methods of incapacitation that could be effectively applied both on the battlefield and in duels. His techniques became so respected that Emperor Go-Mizunoo himself, towards the end of his life, awarded Hisamori’s son, Takenouchi Hitachinosuke Hisakatsu, the title "Hinoshita Torite Kaisan," meaning "the greatest master of grappling in Japan."

The Family and the Passing of Tradition

Hisamori not only created the techniques but also ensured that his legacy would be passed on. His son, Hisakatsu, continued his father’s teachings, traveling throughout Japan and learning from various masters to further develop and refine the techniques. Like his father, he was an unparalleled warrior who reportedly never lost a duel. His fame was so great that he was invited to perform martial arts demonstrations before the emperor and many feudal lords. It was during his time that Takenouchi-ryū reached the peak of its reputation, becoming a model for other jujutsu schools to follow.

Despite his advanced age, Hisamori continued to pass on his knowledge to his sons until his death. His system has survived the centuries, with each subsequent descendant of the Takenouchi family ensuring the preservation and development of the founder's teachings. Today, 500 years later, at the headquarters of the school in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, the Takenouchi-ryū school is still active, led by the 14th sōke (head of the clan), Takenouchi Toichiro Hisamune. The traditional techniques of this ancient martial art are being passed down to new generations both in Japan and worldwide, with great respect for the original principles and philosophy of the founder.

What characterizes jujutsu and Takenouchi-ryū?

Original jujutsu, especially the Takenouchi-ryū school, was distinguished by its unique blend of techniques tailored to the real needs of samurai on the battlefield. Jujutsu, unlike other martial arts such as karate or kenjutsu, emphasized unarmed combat, where the warrior had to manage without a weapon or with minimal armament, in situations where sword fighting became impossible, such as in close combat or after losing a weapon.

The basic principles and techniques of jujutsu

Jujutsu is based on using the opponent’s strength against them, meaning that the samurai did not need to rely on their own physical strength but rather on precision, technique, and strategy. A key element of jujutsu was the ability to seize the initiative by avoiding and neutralizing the opponent's attacks, as well as the ability to throw and control them in close contact.

One of the most important techniques in the Takenouchi-ryū school was torite koshi no mawari—a system of grapples and throws using a short sword (kogusoku) combined with wrestling, which allowed samurai to deal with armored opponents in close combat. These techniques were considered especially effective against enemies wearing heavy armor, which limited mobility while protecting against traditional strikes or sword cuts.

Unique features of the Takenouchi-ryū school

Takenouchi-ryū stood out among other jujutsu schools with its extensive system of techniques, encompassing not only unarmed combat but also armed combat. It was a complete combat system known as sōgō bujutsu (総合武術 – literally, "comprehensive, integrated martial art"), covering a wide range of techniques—from unarmed combat, to the use of various weapons, to techniques related to controlling and subduing the opponent.

Unarmed combat techniques included:

□ Tehodoki (手解き - literally, "hand untying") – techniques for escaping grips. □ Nagewaza (投げ技 - literally, "throwing techniques") – throws aimed at unbalancing and neutralizing the opponent.

□ Kansetsuwaza (関節技 - literally, "joint techniques") – joint locks and manipulation techniques, which were key in neutralizing opponents, regardless of their physical strength.

□ Atemiwaza (当て身技 - literally, "striking techniques") – precise strikes to the opponent's vulnerable points, which were extremely effective even against stronger or better-armed opponents.

Takenouchi-ryū also included more advanced techniques, such as:

□ Hade (派手 - literally, "strikes to sensitive areas") – attacks on vulnerable points of the body (atemi), which often preceded a throw or joint lock.

□ Shimewaza (絞め技 - literally, "strangulation techniques") – techniques of strangulation, which allowed for a quick end to the fight, often without the need to use excessive force.

□ Kumiuchi (組討 - literally, "grappling combat") – wrestling techniques in armor, which were crucial in close combat, especially on the battlefield.

The Philosophy of Jujutsu and Takenouchi-ryū

The founder of the school, Takenouchi Hisamori, taught that the true strength of a warrior does not come solely from physical power but from the harmony of body, mind, and spirit. Martial arts were not treated merely as a tool for defeating an opponent but also as a path of self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment.

Philosophical Principles of the Takenouchi-ryū School

#1. Gojo no toku (五常の徳 - literally "five virtues")

A key element of the school's philosophy is the "five virtues" (gojo no toku), which are meant to guide a warrior's life:

▪ Jin (仁 - literally "humanity, compassion") – A warrior must be kind and compassionate, even toward the opponent. True strength is the ability to protect the weaker and act with compassion.

▪ Gi (義 - literally "righteousness, duty") – A warrior should act according to the principles of justice, be loyal to their beliefs, and follow moral rules.

▪ Rei (礼 - literally "respect, etiquette") – Respect for others, both friends and enemies, is the foundation of every action. A warrior must act with dignity and respect tradition.

▪ Chi (智 - literally "wisdom") – Gaining knowledge and wisdom through practice, and also developing the ability to understand oneself and others.

▪ Shin (信 - literally "faith, trust") – A warrior must be trustworthy and faithful to their promises. They must have faith in their abilities, but also in justice and the path they follow.

#2. Santoku-sho (三徳書 - literally "Three Values")

In addition to the "Five Virtues," the philosophy of the school also emphasizes the "Three Values," which reflect the essence of its teachings:

▪ Ken (剣 - literally "sword") – The sword symbolizes strength and technique. It teaches the warrior how to wield a weapon but also how to control aggression and act with precision.

▪ Tai (体 - literally "body") – The body is a tool for fighting, but it must be in harmony with the mind and spirit. A samurai should be aware of their body, develop its strength, but also take care of health and fitness.

▪ Do (道 - literally "the way") – The philosophical path that the warrior follows, not only in training but in everyday life. The way of self-improvement and achieving inner harmony.

#3. Hyoho (兵法 - literally "military strategy")

A key concept in the martial art of Takenouchi-ryū is also strategy (hyoho). According to this principle, a warrior should not rely solely on physical strength or skills, but also on cunning and the ability to anticipate the opponent’s actions. As Hisamori taught: "Life and death are decided instantly at the moment you meet the enemy" (時を移さず、たちどころに殺生降伏させる). This principle teaches that in combat, the speed of decision-making, concentration, and seizing every opportunity to end the fight are crucial.

The Role of Spiritual Development

Takenouchi-ryū teaches that the martial art does not end with mastering physical techniques. An important part of training is spiritual development, which includes discipline, humility, and the pursuit of harmony between mind, body, and soul. In this context, the spiritual part of the teachings is called Mushin (無心 - literally "no mind") – a state of mind that is not disturbed by emotions, fears, or doubts. Mushin allows the warrior to act instinctively and respond immediately to situations without the need for prolonged thought.

Equally important is the development of Zanshin (残心 - literally "remaining spirit"), which is a state of continuous readiness. A warrior should never lower their guard, even after the fight is over. Zanshin is the awareness that danger can arise at any moment, and a true martial arts master is always prepared for it.

For practitioners of Takenouchi-ryū, the concept of Seishin tanren (精神鍛錬 - literally "cultivating the spirit") is also significant, which involves strengthening one's character through regular, persistent training. This allows students to develop not only physical strength but also mental fortitude, which is crucial in moments of stress or combat. Training in Takenouchi-ryū is not only preparation for battle but also a path to becoming a better person.

The Evolution of the Takenouchi-ryū School

Sengoku Jidai (Warring States Period, 1467–1603):

The initial development of the Takenouchi-ryū school took place during the Sengoku period, a time when Japan was divided into competing clans engaged in almost constant warfare. It was during this time that Takenouchi Hisamori created his fighting system, focusing on techniques that could be used on the battlefield. This was a period when samurai had to be ready to fight under any conditions, and their martial art had to account for a variety of weapons and combat situations.

Takenouchi-ryū, as a comprehensive sōgō bujutsu (総合武術 - literally "comprehensive martial art"), included both unarmed and armed combat techniques, including sword fighting (kenjutsu 剣術), long staff fighting (bōjutsu 棒術), and techniques for using a short sword and incapacitating the enemy in armor (kogusoku koshi no mawari 小具足腰廻 - literally "techniques around the waist with a short sword"). Also important were techniques for subduing and tying up opponents, known as hojōjutsu (捕縄術 - literally "the art of tying").

Techniques such as torite koshi no mawari (取手腰廻 - "grappling techniques around the waist") or wrestling techniques for armored samurai (kumiuchi 組討) were crucial for battlefield combat, especially in close engagements. It was during the Sengoku Jidai that these techniques gained a reputation for being highly effective in brutal combat conditions.

Edo Jidai (1603–1868):

With the beginning of the Edo period, Japan entered a time of relative peace, which significantly influenced the development of martial arts, including Takenouchi-ryū. In the new reality, where samurai no longer participated in constant wars, martial arts schools began to transform from purely combat systems into methods of personal and spiritual improvement. For Takenouchi-ryū, this meant further development of techniques, but also a greater emphasis on the philosophy and ethics of martial arts.

During this period, thanks to Hisamori’s descendants, such as Takenouchi Hisakatsu and Takenouchi Hisayoshi, the school began to be recognized not only as a combat system but also as a path to spiritual and moral development. Techniques based on inner harmony and precise control of body and mind gained importance, which over time led to the development of more advanced joint locks (kansetsu-waza 関節技), throws (nage-waza 投げ技), and vital point strikes (atemi-waza 当身技).

Meiji Period (1868–1912) and Modern Times:

During the Meiji period, Japan began rapid modernization, which significantly impacted social norms and the perception of traditional martial arts. Faced with industrialization and a changing military system, many traditional schools had to confront the challenges posed by modernity. Although less popular today than modern disciplines like judo, Takenouchi-ryū survived thanks to the dedication of its masters and students who preserved the knowledge passed down through generations. During this time, the school focused on preserving tradition and adapting its teachings to the changing realities.

After World War II, there was renewed interest in traditional martial arts as part of Japan’s cultural heritage. Takenouchi-ryū regained its prestige, and today it continues to function as one of the oldest jujutsu schools, with dedicated students and teachers ensuring that the techniques and philosophy survive for future generations.

Techniques and Training Methodology in Takenouchi-ryū

Basic and Advanced Techniques

Modern practice of Takenouchi-ryū preserves many of the key techniques that were used by medieval samurai during the Sengoku period. Fundamental hand-to-hand combat techniques such as tehodoki (手解 - literally "escape from grips"), nage-waza (投げ技 - literally "throwing techniques"), and kansetsu-waza (関節技 - literally "joint locking techniques") are still present and taught according to traditional methods. Though throws and locks may seem simple elements of modern martial arts, in Takenouchi-ryū, they have a deeper dimension—their goal is not only to defeat the opponent but also to gain full control over the situation.

Advanced techniques such as shime-waza (絞技 - literally "strangulation techniques") and atemi-waza (当身技 - literally "vital point striking techniques") are also key elements of training. Strikes to vital points, or atemi, have been used for centuries to quickly neutralize an opponent without the need to apply great force. Practicing these techniques develops not only physical strength but also precision and intuitive sense of when and how to strike the opponent.

Rope Binding Techniques (Hojōjutsu)

A unique element of Takenouchi-ryū, which distinguishes it from other jujutsu schools, is rope binding techniques, or hojōjutsu (捕縄術 - literally "the art of tying and subduing"). This technique was used both on the battlefield and in the everyday life of samurai, primarily by guards and police during the Edo period. Hojōjutsu allowed for effective immobilization and control of the opponent with minimal risk of bodily harm. In keeping with the school’s tradition, students learn to use a special rope to subdue and bind opponents in a way that allows for both their control and safe transport.

Training Methodology

Takenouchi-ryū maintains a traditional approach to training, which derives directly from the training methods of samurai. One of the fundamentals is continuous repetition of movements, aimed not only at perfecting techniques but also at developing zanshin (残心 - literally "remaining spirit"), a state of constant readiness and alertness. Each technique is practiced hundreds, if not thousands of times, so that the movements become natural, without the need for conscious thought. This combination of repetition and instinctive action allows for full synchronization of body and mind.

Another important element of training is meditation in motion, or the ability to concentrate and maintain mental harmony while performing complex sequences of techniques. Takenouchi-ryū places great emphasis on both physical and spiritual development. Seishin tanren (精神鍛錬 - literally "spiritual strengthening") is an integral part of training, as the school believes that a true warrior must develop not only their body but also their soul and mind.

Training also includes the practice of kata, structured forms of combat that help preserve and transmit traditional techniques. Kata are essential for understanding and mastering techniques not only on a physical level but also as a tool for teaching the deeper philosophical principles of the school. Takenouchi-ryū’s holistic approach to training ensures a balance between combat skills and spiritual development, which makes it unique compared to other traditional Japanese martial arts.

Modern Jujutsu

Jujutsu, as the traditional martial art of the samurai, has come a long way from its origins, evolving over the centuries into various forms that we know today around the world. Modern jujutsu is no longer just a survival art for the battlefield, as it was during the Sengoku period, but has become a broad discipline encompassing different aspects of hand-to-hand combat and self-defense.

During the Edo period (1603–1868), as Japan entered a long period of peace, jujutsu, like many other martial arts, changed its focus. Instead of concentrating solely on survival techniques in wartime conditions, jujutsu schools began to place more emphasis on personal development and the cultivation of spiritual skills. Jujutsu in its modern forms influenced the development of other well-known martial arts, such as:

► Judo – founded by Jigoro Kano in the 19th century, emerged directly from jujutsu, with a focus on throws (nage-waza) and ground techniques (ne-waza).

► Aikido – created by Morihei Ueshiba, draws much from jujutsu techniques, particularly those that focus on harmony with the opponent.

► Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) – evolved from judo, and thus from jujutsu, with a greater emphasis on ground fighting and joint locks.

Today, traditional jujutsu, although less popular than modern disciplines like judo or Brazilian jiu-jitsu, is still practiced by enthusiasts in several countries, primarily in Japan and, beyond it, in small groups around the world. Its original form is not part of mass tournaments like other contemporary martial arts but is mainly preserved in schools (dōjō) specializing in koryū, meaning traditional Japanese styles.

Tournaments of traditional jujutsu are rare, and greater emphasis is placed on private seminars, workshops, and demonstrations, such as those organized in Japan by martial arts federations like the Nippon Budokan or the All Japan Koryu Jujutsu Federation, which aim to preserve and promote classical techniques and philosophy. Interest in traditional jujutsu is more prevalent among lovers of Japanese culture and historical martial arts than among sports competitors.

The Contemporary Takenouchi-ryū School

Although many jujutsu schools have evolved and adopted a more sport-oriented character, Takenouchi-ryū (竹内流) has remained true to its roots as sōgō bujutsu (総合武術 - literally "comprehensive martial art"). Today, it is one of the oldest and most traditional jujutsu schools, still teaching combat techniques that have been passed down for over 400 years.

The headquarters of Takenouchi-ryū, known as the honbu dojo, is located in Okayama, Japan, in line with the school’s historical origins. The current soke (宗家 - literally "head of the lineage") of the school is the 14th soke Takenouchi Toichiro Hisamune, who has held this position for several decades. He is a direct descendant of the school’s founder, Takenouchi Hisamori, and continues the tradition of passing on the school’s techniques and philosophy to his students.

Today, the Takenouchi-ryū school has several dōjō in Japan, but its influence has also spread to other countries. In Japan, there are branches like Bitchū-den, which focus on slightly different variants of teaching, but all retain the essence of the techniques and philosophy developed by the founder.

Around the world, there are several dōjō and training groups that teach Takenouchi-ryū. For example, the Shofukan dojo in Canada, as well as dojos in the United Kingdom, Mexico, and the United States, are some of the few places outside Japan where one can learn this martial art. The total number of active practitioners worldwide is not large, with estimates suggesting there are only a few thousand students globally. However, it is worth noting that due to the exclusive nature of the school and its deep roots in tradition, the number of new adepts is limited. The school focuses more on a deep understanding of the philosophy and techniques rather than on attracting a mass number of students.

Famous Masters

In the modern era, well-known masters of Takenouchi-ryū are not only descendants of the Takenouchi lineage but also martial arts masters who have helped popularize this ancient tradition worldwide. The aforementioned 14th soke Takenouchi Toichiro Hisamune is a highly respected figure in classical martial arts circles.

Other masters who have contributed to the school’s development outside Japan include Wayne Muromoto, who runs a dojo in Hawaii and has been promoting traditional Japanese martial arts, including Takenouchi-ryū, outside of Japan for many years.

Conclusion

For those seeking not only technical skills but also a spiritual path that directly connects to the oldest samurai traditions, this school offers a unique opportunity to delve into the philosophy of harmony, control, and precision. Modern dōjō, both in Japan and abroad, continue to teach techniques that stem from the realities of medieval samurai combat, while also combining them with meditation and spiritual development.

Takenouchi-ryū stands out for its adherence to tradition. Its practitioners deeply value ancient values, directly tied to the spirit of Sengoku warriors. The unchanged methodology of training for centuries, based on repetition, discipline, and spiritual practice, has allowed Takenouchi-ryū to survive as a living example of how martial arts can evolve while still maintaining their roots.

The modern world may see these techniques as exotic or archaic, but their fundamental principles—harmony, control, and spiritual strength—remain relevant. Takenouchi-ryū is not just a martial art but also a path to self-improvement that attracts enthusiasts both in Japan and abroad.

Note:

In Poland, it is possible to train in Takenouchi-ryū. One of the main centers where the techniques of this traditional martial art are taught is the Bu Jutsu Kai Takenouchi Ryu school in Namysłów. The chief instructor is Krzysztof Jankowiak, who received his position directly from the Japanese master soke Takenouchi Toshimichi.

The Bu Jutsu Kai Takenouchi Ryu school offers training in martial arts such as kenjutsu, kyu-jutsu (archery), and jujutsu. There is also the possibility of participating in seminars and training sessions organized in various cities in Poland.

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 A connoisseur of Asian culture with a deep-seated appreciation for various philosophies of the world. By education, psychologist and Korean philologist. By heart, an Android developer and an ardent tech aficionado. In tranquil moments, he champions a disciplined way of life, firmly believing that steadfastness, perpetual self-enhancement, and a dedication to one's passions is a sensible path for life.

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  Mike Soray

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