Kenjutsu, the art of the Japanese sword, is far more than combat technique—it’s a living tradition shaped by centuries of philosophy, warfare, and aesthetic refinement.
What Is Kenjutsu?
Kenjutsu is an umbrella term for all schools of Japnese swordsmanship, in particular those that predate the Meiji Restoration. Some modern syles of Kenod and Iaido that were established in the 20th century also included modern forms of kenjutsu in their curriculum.
Kenjutsu originted with the Samurai of feudal Japan and means "metods, techniques, and the art of the Japanese sword". This is opposed to kenod, which means "the way of the sword" and uses a bamboo sword and protective armour.
The Origins of Kenjutsu
It was during the Heian period that the curved Japanese sword, now known internationally as the Katana, was developed. The oldest martial arts schools still in existence today originated during the Muromachi period, a time characterised by extended periods of inter-state warfare. Three major schools emerged during this period.
- Kaga-ryu
- Chujo-ryu
- Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu
These schools form the ancestors for many descendant styles, for example, from Itto ryu has branched into Ono-ha Itto ryu and Mizoguchi-ha Itto-ryu.
During the Edo period, schools proliferated to a number of more than 500, and training techniques and equipment advanced. The 19th century led to the development of the bamboo practice sword, the shinai, and protective armour, bogu. This allows practice of full-speed techniques in sparring, while reducing the risk of serious harm to the practitioner. Before this, training in Kenjutsu had consisted mainly of basic technique practice and paired kata, using solid wooden practice swords or live blades.
Beginning in 1868, the Meiji Restoration led to the breakup of the military class and the modernisation of Japan along the lines of Western industrial nations. As the Samurai class was officially dissolved at this time, kenjutsu fell into decline, an unpopular reminder of the past. This decline continued for approximately 20 years, until rising national confidence led to an increase in the uptake of traditional sword arts again, particularly in the military and the police.
The Styles of Kenjutsu
Kaga-ryu
This is a traditional school of swordsmanship founded by Aizu Hyuga-no-Kami Iko. This school is also sometimes called Aizu Kage-ryu after the name of its founder. The founder was also known as Aizu Ikosai Hisatada, and his surname is sometimes written as “Aisu” instead of “Aizu”. Today, the Kaga-ryu of Aizu Hyuga-no-Kami Iko exists only through its influence of later schools of swordsmanship, such as Yagyu Shinkage-ryu and Kashima Shinden Jikishinkaga-ryu, and the many schools that they in turn influenced.
Chujo-ryu
This is a koryu martial art founded in the 14th century by Chujo Nagahide, who studied under Nenami Okuyama Jion and his Nen-ryu style of swordsmanship. Having benefited from the good graces of being on the right side of the Kenmu Restoration, Chujo Nagahide’s family had prospered, allowing him to study the Chujo clan’s style of swordsmanship in a time when swordsmanship was surpassed by the bow and arrow and spear. Eventually, he came to Nenami Jion’s dojo.
Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu
This is one of the oldest extant Japanese martial arts and an exemplar of bujutsu. It was founded by Lizasa Lenao, who lived near Katori Shrine at the time. The Ryu is purported to have been founded in 1447, but some scholars state that it was about 1480.
Benefits of Training In Kenjutsu
Mental Discipline and Focus
Kenjutsu allows you to enhance concentration through precise, deliberate movements. Training also helps sharpen awareness and intuition, especially during kata and sparring.
Physical Conditioning
Training in kenjutsu also helps build core strength, balance, and coordinated reflexes. Kenjutsu also helps improve posture, stamina and spatial awareness.
Cultural Connection and Historical Insight
Training in Kenjutsu connects you to centuries-old samurai traditions and philosophies that also teach you the evolution of sword arts, weapons, and strategic combat.
Kenjutsu is not merely about wielding a sword—it’s about inheriting a way of life forged in precision, respect, and quiet resilience.
