Koryu Bujutsu

by Diane Skoss

Koryu Bujutsu is the first new book on the arts of the Japanese samurai to appear in over twenty years. Written by the foremost Western practitioner/writers, these eight essays are based on experiences with authentic Japanese traditions and teachers gained during decades spent living, researching, and training in Japan. Together they offer a fascinating, literate, and insightful view into the classical warrior ways of feudal Japan. Compiled and edited by Diane Skoss (herself licensed in Toda-ha Buko-ryu naginatajutsu, an ancient warrior tradition), the book also contains thirty-three photographs, bibliographical references, a Japanese glossary with kanji, and a detailed index. TABLE OF Foreword by Major George H. Bristol Preface by Diane Skoss Keiko Shokon by Diane Skoss The Koryu Bujutsu Experience by Hunter B. Armstrong The Meaning of Martial Arts A Conversation with Sawada Hanae by Meik Skoss Field Guide to the Classical Japanese Martial Arts by Diane Skoss Buddhist Influences on Combative Behavior by David A. Hall Tenjin Shinyo-ryu Jujutsu by Meik Skoss Kato Reflections of the Tatsumi-ryu Headmaster by Liam Keeley Koryu Meets the West by Ellis Amdur Glossary Index

Genres: Martial Arts, Nonfiction, Japan

Paperback

First published September 1, 1997

Reviews

[Dorum · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is one of the only books on Japanese koryu. Unfortunately it simply is not good enough.

Parts of it are really great. First of all there is a thorough essay on Tenjin Shin'yo Ryu. This was really good. There is also a really great essay by Ellis Amdur. Also the very first essay has some great points, but it is otherwise pretty wrong (and it is also contradicted in other parts of the book itself!!).

All in all this is not a comprehensive introduction to koryu, and not a really great book. I guess what you can say about it is that "it's better than nothing".

I don't want to be an asshole and criticize a book without proposing an alternative. If you want an introduction to the subject of koryu, I guess the best you can do is Old School: Essays on Japanese Martial Traditions.

Anyways,... if you already have this book, I guess you can read just the essay on Tenjin Shin'yo Ryu and the "Koryu goes west" essay.

[Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some very interesting essays into the ancient Japanese martial arts, the Koryu. Definitely an good read for people interested in these arts.

[David Hickey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good essays in here, worth reading in chunks rather than all at once.