The Kukishin Ryū Bōjutsu Program at Shin Gan Dojo encompasses the comprehensive study of long, medium, and short stick weapons foundational to classical Japanese Budo. This discipline is structured into separate, dedicated classes for each weapon, allowing students to achieve mastery in the specific techniques and body mechanics required for each length.
This program is dedicated to mastering this entire range of tools for defense, emphasizing disciplined movements, controlled power, and the historical techniques designed for genuine application in complex situations.
The Kukishin Ryū Curriculum
Kukishin Ryū teaches that true proficiency comes from understanding how to transition between tactical distances. Mastery in this program is achieved through the study of four distinct disciplines. Students enroll in dedicated classes for each of the following weapons, which are optimized for unique ranges of engagement:
- Rokushaku Bō (Six-Foot Staff):
- Focus: Long-Range defense. Utilizes the full length to control the engagement space, keeping opponents at a safe distance, and delivering powerful strikes (uchi) and thrusts (tsuki).
- Jō (Four to Five-Foot Staff):
- Focus: Mid-Range defense. A versatile tool for sweeping, deflecting, and controlling an opponent’s center line. It requires superior agility and control for fast, close-quarters transitions.
- Hanbō (Three-Foot Staff):
- Focus: Close-Range defense. Often used as an extension of the arm for joint locks, leverage, blocking, and rapid striking. It is effective in crowded or confined spaces.
- Tanbō (Short Stick/Baton):
- Focus: Very Close Range and concealed carry. Applied much like a baton or yawara stick for targeted strikes, pressure point manipulation, and weapon retention techniques.
A Foundational Lineage of Excellence
The integrity and quality of any classical martial art are tied directly to its transmission. Our Bōjutsu curriculum follows a precise, unbroken line of transmission, ensuring students receive authentic and time-tested instruction.
The principles and techniques of Kukishin Ryū are passed down through a respected martial lineage from Shoto Tanemura Sensei, to Sensei Chadwick Minge, to Sensei Brian Simmons, to Senpai Gigi Simmons.
Training Focus at Shin Gan Dojo
Kukishin Ryū Bōjutsu training builds physical strength, coordination, and mental focus. Because the diverse range of weapons requires precise control and full body engagement, it is an exceptional training method for improving foundational martial arts skills.
This training is delivered with a clear emphasis on:
- Structure and Stability: Learning to maintain correct posture and balance to harness the weapon’s momentum without losing control, regardless of the staff’s length.
- Waza (Techniques): Dedicated practice of traditional forms (kata) to understand the combat sequence and underlying defensive applications for each weapon.
- Controlled Application: Partnered drills that practice attacks and defenses in a safe, controlled environment, focusing on proper targeting and effective retraction.
Students will gain not only proficiency with a traditional range of weapons but also superior body coordination that enhances all other forms of defensive training.
Integrating Kukishin Ryū with Modern Readiness
The Bōjutsu curriculum is a perfect complement to the defensive philosophy of the Shin Gan Dojo.
Mastery of the stick arts fundamentally improves the student’s defensive psychology and insight by forcing them to think several steps ahead and manage the tactical space around them critically. The discipline and control developed here are essential foundational skills that translate directly into clear decision-making during high-stress situations.
Furthermore, the size and weight mechanics of the Jō and Hanbō translate directly to modern, everyday defensive tools, such as the walking cane, trekking pole, or hiking stick. Students learn how to effectively employ these common items for self-protection using principles rooted in centuries of classical training.
We welcome students seeking a serious, disciplined approach to traditional Japanese weaponry.
Enrollment and Scheduling
The Kukishin Ryū Bōjutsu Program is currently offered exclusively through Private (1:1) and Semi-Private (2-3 students) Instruction only.
This specialized format allows for highly focused training tailored to your pace and goals. All instruction is scheduled by appointment and subject to our standard private lesson rate. Please contact the Dojo directly to discuss your training objectives and secure an appointment time.
