Dear Students, Dojo Families, and Prospective Members,
We have some exciting news to share! Sensei Brian and Senpai Gigi will be traveling to Japan for an intensive professional development training.
Please note: Classes will be CLOSED from September 1st to 12th.
Our regular class schedule will RESUME on September 15th.
NEW STUDENTS: Don’t let this stop you from getting started now! We are giving 50% off 1st month tuition for all new students who sign up in August 2025.
We are incredibly excited about this opportunity to deepen our knowledge and bring back enhanced skills to our dojo. We wanted to share some background on the unique training we’ll be undertaking.
Advanced Study: Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu
We are honored to be studying with Seki Sensei, the 22nd headmaster of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu. This is a rare opportunity to train directly with a lineage holder of an ancient and comprehensive martial art.
What is Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu?
Founded approximately 400 years ago during Japan’s late Sengoku period (a time of intense civil war), Asayama Ichiden Ryu preserves authentic battlefield techniques. Unlike modern sport martial arts, its methods are rooted in practical application, even assuming the practitioner is wearing armor. It’s a truly comprehensive system, encompassing:
- Ju Tai Jutsu: Unarmed combat techniques (Sensei Brian is already proficient in this complete Black Belt curriculum and Senpai Gigi holds Shodan, currently working on Nidan Black Belt material).
- Kenjutsu: Sword techniques.
- Iai: The art of drawing the katana.
- Bokuto: Bo staff techniques.
- And many other traditional weapons.
During this intensive training camp, we will specifically focus on Kenjutsu, Iai, and Bokuto (sword and staff). These aspects of Asayama Ichiden Ryu will be new to us.
The Significance of Kobudo
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is considered one of the few true Kobudo (ancient budo martial arts) that still exist today. This is because it was established before the Edo period (1603-1868), a time when samurai were still active. Martial arts styles that emerged after the Edo period, or following Japan’s Westernization, are classified as Gendai-budo (modern budo martial arts). Studying Kobudo offers a direct connection to the historical and practical roots of Japanese combat.
Continuing a Legacy of Excellence
This training was specifically suggested by Sensei Brian’s own teacher, Sensei Chadwick Minge, as a crucial progression in our martial and professional development. Under Sensei Minge’s continuous guidance, Sensei Brian has already achieved the prestigious rank of 4th Level Instructor’s License in Ninpo Tai Jutsu. This comprehensive rank includes high black belt levels in all of the following Japanese Ryu Ha (disciplines):
- Asayama Ichiden Ryu Ju Tai Jutsu
- Takagi Yoshin Ryu Ju Tai Jutsu
- Shinden Fudo Ryu Ju Tai Jutsu
- Kukishin Ryu Daken Tai Jutsu
- Koto Ryu Koppo Jutsu
- Gyokko Ryu Kosshi Jutsu
- Kukishin Ryu Bo Jutsu (bo staff)
- Kukishin Ryu Ken Jutsu (sword)
We are committed to continuously advancing our skills and knowledge to provide you with the highest quality instruction. We look forward to returning with enhanced knowledge and a deeper understanding of the art, which will undoubtedly enrich your training experience.
Thank you for your understanding and continued dedication.
Sincerely,
Sensei Brian & Senpai Gigi
Reminder Scheduled Closures: Holidays, staff training, and other scheduled closure days are factored into your monthly tuition cost. We do not offer discounts or alter monthly tuition during these periods.
