Renowned budo (martial arts) and ninja grandmaster Hatsumi explains how
Japanese sword fighting embodies the essence of budo and the spirit of
the samurai.
For centures, sword masters like Miyamoto Musashi have been revered, and
have fascinated and inspired people everywhere. Now, in his definitive
work, Masaaki Hatsumi, the world's most famous living budo and ninja
grandmaster, shares his vast knowledge of Japanese sword fighting as
it's been practiced through the ages: its history, techniques, styles,
and core philosophies, along with the deepest secrets of this venerable
martial art.
Hatsumi covers a variety of classical techniques, including ninja kenpo
and two-sword fighting, and also demonstrates applications using the
stick, spear, naginata, and kusarigama. He then explores such secret
techniques as those involving armor, and the mutodori (no-sword) forms,
considered the ultimate samurai skill. Detailed demonstration photos,
works of calligraphy by famous samurai artists, historical scrolls, and
illustrations enhance the text.
Within Hatsumi's technical descriptions and musings on the history of
bushido (the way of the warrior) are sections in which he places budo
and sword fighting in their cultural context, discusses their practical
applications, and conveys his personal philosophy of promoting a world
of peace and tolerance.
