Kyudo: The Way of the Bow

by Feliks F. Hoff

The Way of the Bow is the authoritative guide to the technique and philosophy of the ancient art of Japanese archery. Originally a samurai discipline, kyudo integrates technical skill with the development of a completely focused and disciplined mind. Influenced by Shintoism and Zen, kyudo is a path of self-development and meditation that requires the archer to cultivate precision, a clear mind, and freedom from fear.

This detailed, clearly written guide is an indispensable reference for kyudo students and an excellent sourcebook for anyone interested in the history of archery or warfare. The author, Feliks Hoff, a kyudo practitioner for over thirty years, gives a historical and philosophical view of the art and offers practical exercises for cultivating the proper mindset for each shot; detailed instruction on proper form and technique; an overview of the etiquette, dress, and ceremonial aspects of kyudo; and a survey of the various types of equipment used.

Hoff presents the basic techniques of the Heki school of kyudo in step-by-step photographs. He also provides exercises for aiming and target shooting and lists common mistakes in form, technique, and concentration along with pointers on how to correct them. For more advanced students, Hoff includes a list of examination requirements and offers advice on teaching beginners.

Genres: Martial Arts, Japan, Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published May 14, 2002

Reviews

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good chunk of this book is detailed instruction on shooting the yumi (Japanese bow). Some of it was quite interesting--the physics involved and why technique is so important, and the history. But with all the information on correcting common mistakes, it's probably most useful to a experienced kyudo student, which I am not. Had I known ahead of time what the focus of the book was, I'd have probably tried a different book.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than the DeProspero book in that it offers a lot of advice on how to fix your mistakes. Worse in that the diagrams are not particularly helpful, especially when an idiot like me who can't even tie his yugake properly reads the book. Still, I found it useful.

[Hana · Rating 5 out of 5]

thanks

[Leif Bagge · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is the best book written about Heki To Ryu Insaiha kyudo style in a non-japanese language. Each kyudo style has its own books as there are differences between the styles. Mr Hoff is among the first kyudo practitioners in Europe. The book is very well built and proceeds detailed and chronologically. I sincerely suggest this for people interested in Japanese archery.

[Paul A · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good technical overview of the form, as well as ways to correct mistakes. I particularly enjoyed the summaries of different shooting competitions- I'd love to set up something similar at my own kyudojo in the future!