Kyudo : Essence et pratique du tir à l'arc japonais

by Hideharu Onuma, Dan De Prospero, Jackie De Prospero

Kyudo-the Way of the Bow-is the oldest of Japan's traditional martial arts and the one most closely associated with bushido, the Way of the Warrior. After the Second World War Eugen Herrigel introduced the concept of kyudo to the West in his classic Zen in the Art of Japanese Archery. But
until now, no Japanese kyudo master has published a book on his art in English.

In Kyudo: The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery, Hideharu Onuma and his American co-authors, Dan and Jackie DeProspero, explain in detail both the spiritual and practical aspects of kyudo. Written with both novices and advanced students in mind, the book is presented in simple,
straightforward language and features hundreds of detailed illustrations, supplemented by rare photographs of Master Onuma, clearly demonstrating the fundamental techniques and daily practice of this form of "standing Zen."

Including chapters on equipment and kyudojo construction, Kyudo: The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery is the most comprehensive reference work on the subject available. Special sections on problem solving and shitsu (errors) also make it a unique teaching and learning resource, and the
concluding shiteimondo (teacher-student dialogue) provides unparalleled insights into the thoughts and teachings of a true master of the martial arts.

Genres: Japan, Martial Arts, Nonfiction

175 pages, Hardcover

First published July 15, 1993

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This falls under the heading of "books about things that you can't learn to do from a book." That being said, it's an excellent overview of the practice of Kyudo. To understand the history, terminology, and basic concepts of practice, there is much that this book can provide. With detailed descriptions and numerous illustrations it provides a solid understanding of the technology of Kyudo.

Still, Kyudo isn't a sport. It's a discipline, a meditation, a practice, and while one can easily learn the techniques from proper instruction, one can never master it to perfection. This is why a kyudoka can practice an entire lifetime and still learn something new.

My favorite passages are at the end of the book and comprise conversation between Dan DeProspero and Onuma Sensei. Almost poetic in their nature, they illustrate the experience of one who has lived a lifetime of Kyudo, and leave the reader wanting more.

I didn't give a full five stars because I didn't want the reader to believe that this book will teach them Kyudo. (No book ever could.) I did give it four, however, because it does teach the reader ABOUT Kyudo, and it does that very well.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I plan on studying kyudo if all goes well.

[Cristiane · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Because of its subtlety, advanced technique cannot be completely and clearly presented in written form. Therefore, you may need to rely on the help and guidance of a qualified instructor to fully understand the teachings in this section.”

As expressed inside this book, the intention is clear: to teach kyudo as much as the written form allows and be a reference book for those seeking to learn the history and beauty of this art.


The book is short and straightforward, yet it gives us beginners a complete view of what kyudo is. Inside you’ll find material enough to understand the history and evolution of the art of kyudo, a very detailed explanation of its rules, terminologies and ceremonies with numerous photos and illustrations to help. It ends with a collection of questions and answers extracted from conversations the authors had with master Onuma, which they thought could hold important lessons to the students.

I gave it 5 stars because I’m evaluating the book for what it holds, the great care demonstrated in explaining as much and as clear as possible and its authors intentions.

[David Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book to improve my creative writing. :-) As in many creative acts, a Zen approach can improve one's skills.

However: DO NOT BUY FROM AMAZON--- the book is images-only, and exceptionally difficult to read. I suggest one download the PDF file instead.

[Malcolm Zachariah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book that touches most aspects of this martial art, with some great quotes from Onuma sensei in the interview section at the end. However, like another reviewer said, kyudo can't be taught solely from a book (it's like looking at a sculpture through pictures); a serious student should consider finding a kyudo dojo or at least someone to give hands-on training. I got this mainly because I was moving far from my teacher, so this is most useful as a reference into aspects that I slowly forget.

I would also suggest getting the Kyudo Kyohon Vol 1, which is the official manual for the All Japanese Kyudo Federation (ANKF). It is a little difficult to source.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to Kyudo.

[Tim Weakley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a very good general overview of Kyudo. It lets you know what you need about the sport to decide whther or not it's something for you.