2 comments about The Martial Arts: Swordsmanship, Kendo, Aikido, Judo, Karate.

1. [Review written Jun 2005]
   
   It's a shame that this book is out of print, because it offers a nice overview (along with some engrossing photos) of many different martial arts: Swordsmanship (Kendo/Iaiado), Aikido, Judo, Karate, Ninjitsu, Kyudo, etc. The author does a fair job of leading the reader though the major historical branches of the martial arts ... although (if I recall) with a strong page count bias towards the Japanese branches.
   
   The material that's there is still fairly current, but recent developments pertaining to things like the "Unlimited Fighting Championships" {aka 'MMA'}, and various big budget Hollywood movies (Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, recent movies by Jet Li and Jackie Chan, etc.) have had a noticeable effect on the martial arts landscape in recent years ... causing interest to peak in areas like Brazilian JuJitsu and various sub-styles of Chinese Kung Fu.
   
   In any case, it's still recommended, if you can find it ... particularly if you're on a journey of self discovery in the hobby, and you're looking for philosophical signposts and various stylistic spoor to help guide you on your way (in the direction of additional research and exploration). Case in point - I originally started out dabbling in hard styles, like Kenpo (and others), but after several years, I gravitated towards the "softer" styles styles, like Aikido and Tai Chi. They were a better fit for me, both physically, and spiritually. Everyone is different, and to each their own ... but that's what worked for me.
   
   Anyway, it's a good book, if you can find it.



2. Perfect book for those who have a broad interst in Martial Arts. Very nice pics and elaborate information.
   A must have

5 comments about Kendo: Elements, Rules, and Philosophy (Latitude 20 Book).

1. Jinichi Tokeshi provides a succinct albeit comprehensive guide to Kendo and all that is entails. It begins with a short history of Kendo in an effort to familiarize the reader with the origins of the "sport". Tokeshi then spends some time on the necessities such as equipment and the correct manner in which to wear the kendogi and bogu! He also pays strict attention to appropriate etiquette and behaviour. The book deals with the movements, strikes, general philosophy, rules, regulations and ends with short biographies on historically significant samurai/Kendo masters! All in all the book amicably demonstrates the "elements, rules, and philosophy" of Kendo and as a new student to the Japanese art of fencing it has proved indispensable.



2. Dr. Tokeshi's book is great. It covers everything from the philosophy and history behind kendo to waza (techniques) and the basics of equipment care. Not to mention the comprehensive section on nitto ryu and the Nihon Kendo Kata. Using Dr. Tokeshi's book I've learned to take apart and maintain my shinai and how to fold my keikogi and hakama. I especially like the sections where he explains the reasons behind the different kamae and what the different kata is supposed to teach you.



3. The book is exactly as the title states. It explains the philosophy, history, and rules of Kendo. It also has illustrations for the techniques so you can learn them. You still need to study Kendo in person to learn it, but this book is good as a reference book in case you haven't practiced something in awhile. It also has the terminology, which is useful to know as a student.



4. I am a beginner in Kendo so take this all with a grain of salt.
   
   I thought this was a tremendous book. Well written, clear, and thorough. I think it rivals "Kendo: the Definitive Guide" as one of the two best Kendo books. Particularly interesting, though not useful unless you're already a sandan or so, are the sections on Nito and Jodan. I haven't seen info on those kamae in English anywhere else.
   
   Good book and a worthy addition to your library.



5. Jinichi Tokeshi's book is a great supplement to the modern kendoka. However, I would recommend getting Kendo: The Definitive Guide by Hiroshi Ozawa since Kendo: Elements, Rules, and Philosophy is not as thorough with its waza and keiko.
   
   This book has concise and understandable vocabulary, making it easy for many people to read. It simplifies most of the concepts in the book. Tokeshi-sensei starts off with the history of kendo, which was rather segmented. He then proceeds to introduce the equipment necessary for kendo: the shinai, gi, hakama and bogu. For each equipment, illustrations are provided on how to maintain them or wear them.
   
   The waza and keiko in this book are explained in paragraphs, only giving the reader an overview. There are illustrations in many waza and keiko that can help one reference back. Tokeshi-sensei also provides some insight and tips on waza.
   
   Just like the rest of the book's contents, the philosophy was concise. He cut straight to the chase, and I have yet to see any personal bias he wrote regarding the philosophy.
   
   In all, this book is a great reference.

No comments about ASIAN FIGHTING ARTS.

5 comments about This is Kendo: The Art of Japanese Fencing.

1. nothing can replace dojo when it comes to learning kendo, however, this book provides good over view about kendo. i do have number of different kendo books in my collection at this point.. however, this was my first book in english on kendo, and i still find it endearing.



2. Outstanding book, both for advanced kendoists and begginers. Pay close attention to everything those two authors and masters kendoists have written and you'll not regret.



3. Being a new kendo enthusiast I found this book very good in presenting all the basic information. Excellent history backgrounder too, how kendo developed and what it means in Japan. Precise information on all major aspects, such as equipment, etiquette, forms and practice.



4. This is a good book if you are interested in the "sport" of fighting with shinai. If your are more interested in the "art" of Japanese sword fighting; I would go with "Flashing Steel" or a book on Kenjutsu.



5. This was the first book I ever purchased on the Kendo. At that time this book was the only text in English on this sword art. Now there are numerous excellent books on Kendo. From my own experience studying Kendo, this book really helped to clarify some important points in this wonderful martial art. The material covered is clear and highly informative. It explains how Kendo began, how it developed into an art, the role of the Bushi and bushido, the refinement of Kendo, the equipment and basic rules of the sport. This fully illustrated text shows the various sparring techniques and practice sessions involved in the art of Kendo. It only hints at the work it takes to achieve any level of skill. I can tell you that it is a very grueling and exhausting sport. I wished I would have been younger when I began my training in Kendo. In conclusion, this is a great basic guide when combined with actual hands-on training in Kendo with an instructor(Sensei). Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Samurai Aerobics: The Kendo/Kenjustu workout, Tanto-Jutsu Manual, Wakizashi-Jutsu Manual, Monadnock Defensive Tactics (MDTS) System, Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques, Martial Art Myths).

5 comments about The Way of Kendo and Kenjitsu: Soul of the Samurai.

1. Mr. Craig has again written another fine book and I can recommend it as a enjoyable read. It maintains the traditional Craig writing style that integrates authentic personal stories, but written around completely new information and insight into one of the more mysterious of the martial arts - kendo. This book is as good as, and in many ways much better, than Mr. Craig's previous books. If you don't read it for the diagrams and technical depth, it certainly should be read for his historical reflections. I found it particularly interesting to understand that the martial experience Mr. Craig has gained - enough to write an authoritative book on the subject, comes from his long relationship with a family in Japan that has been practicing kendo in one form or another for almost 800 years.

   I only will point out an observation that Craig gets slowly around to making. He describes that kendo has a very pragmatic modern application. In spite of the list of ranks, skills and titles that Mr. Craig has (l)earned, he writes that the marital samurai is not a person brute bristling with weapons and bravado, but rather a courteous, indifferent person who carries within himself, unseen except when called to action, a martial spirit and a courage to battle for a right.




2. Here's another informative, instructive, and inspiring book by Darrell Craig - a great addition to your library if interested in kendo, iaido, kenjitsu, or simply martial arts in general.
   
   Thanks to the helpful reviews below, I've gratefully added this book to my collection. One reviewer complained that the author was arrogant, which I was unable to determine from reading the text. To the contrary, the stories reveal a kind and generous man. If the author is arrogant, so what? His book is a great buy!
   
   And so is "The Heart of Kendo," which I rate at 5 stars for being not only educational but also exceptionally beautiful.



3. Samurai seem to be everywhere. From the Oscar-nominated films The Twilight Samurai and Tom Cruise's The Last Samurai to anime marital arts sagas and the hit Emmy-winning Cartoon Network series, Samurai Jack, the robed, inscrutable, unstoppable warriors conquer our hearts with their martial arts and their dignity. The illustration of a black-robed Japanese gentlemen seated in a meditation pose with a katana by his side, one in his lap, sets the tone for Kendo and Kenjitsu practitioner Darrell Max Craig. Although Craig, like so many martial arts devotees, is a gai-jin (foreigner), he displays a reverence and knowledge of Japanese culture, samurai in particular, that is to be respected and admired. Craig goes into great detail about the katas, combat, clothing, equipment, and most of all, the swords of his art. He writes of the details with the same intricate deftness of a skilled samurai dueling with an adversary, and his strokes of the keyboard baffle and enlighten us as much as the strokes of the katana, or the other sword Craig introduces us to, the shinai.
   
   Those readers who, like this reviewer, have not read Craig's previous book, The Heart of Kendo, and are not familiar with Kendo and Kenjitsu, may find the details difficult to master. This is not a casual read, but if you truly desire to learn martial arts, or at least collect Japanese swords, a pastime to which Craig devotes the last two chapters (perhaps recognizing, wisely, that some of his audience for the book may be Japanophiles and collectors), The Way of Kendo and Kenjitsu is a worthy place to start.



4. Reviewed by Bob Spears
   Publisher and Chief Reviewer
   Heartland Reviews
   
   The author has written a definitive work on the subject. Kendo, using padded armor and split-bamboo swords, is a sport. He covers its essentials. Kenjitsu is the much older code of sword fighting, which has no rules and uses real, metal swords for practice.
   
   The book is remarkably well illustrated and the text provides excellent information on the topic. The author provides not only the movements, descriptions, and customs, but what to look for in collectible swords and other equipment.
   
   
    



5. This is a great book: enjoyable, entertaining, and enlightening. Craig's basic premise is that the way of kendo is something different to each and every student who picks up a Japanese sword. While traditional Kenjitsu had no rules per se, modern (sport) kendo does. He has fascinating insight into the differences and similarities between the two, asserting that to learn kendo properly practitioners must not think of it (or practice it) as a sport. If you don't already know, kendo uses bamboo shinai and padded armor for practice while kenjitsu uses live steel. To get the most out of these arts, Craig believes that you must think of them as a way of life, a perspective promulgated by most of the leading sword arts practitioners such as Dave Lowry as well.
   
   Craig's writings will advance your sword skills imparting knowledge of equipment, exercises, applications, and kata (including the last three kata of the All Japan Kendo Federation, which use the wakizashi short sword). More specifically, topics include kendo clothing, equipment and care thereof, fundamental movements, advanced waza, and kodachi katas. There is also great information about samurai sword collecting, care, maintenance, and terminology. The illustrations enhance the text and facilitate the reader's ability to understand and internalize Craig's excellent points. I think that the target audience is experience practitioners so it might be a bit beyond some beginners though. Regardless, this is a great book, a worthy addition to any martial arts library.
   
   Darrell Craig really knows his stuff. He holds a exceptionally impressive list of black belt ranks in several different martial arts, including kendo (renshi), karate (kyoshi), jujitsu (kyoshi); iaido (godan), kobudo (godan), judo (yodan), and aikido (yodan). He has worked as a martial arts choreographer on a number of feature films and is the author of several other martial arts books as well.
   
   Lawrence Kane
   Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction

No comments about Bamboo Blade, Vol. 2 (v. 2).

2 comments about Bamboo Blade, Vol. 1 (v. 1).

1. and I bought the collective volume.
   Perhaps this is one of the overlooked titles in Yen Plus, but it certainly one of the best.
   
   I actually really dislike manga involving kendo(the type of swordplay sport in this book thats common in japanese schools) and swords, but this was such a cute story that I loved it.
   The characters are funny and cute and the story really picks up after this volume. Its very carefree and the art is interesting. Anyone who is a fan of kendo or just wants to read a funny manga, pick this up.



2. This is a review of Volume One of "Bamboo Blade" published by Yen Press.
   
   "Bamboo Blade" follows the story of the (mostly female) members of a kendo club in Muroe Private High School in Japan. One day the club's coach, impoverished Toraji "Kojiro" Ishida, is challenged by his senpai Ishibashi: "If Kojiro's all-female team beat his in the competition, Kojiro can have a one-year supply of sushi at the sushi restaurant Ishibashi's father runs. Of course, Kojiro accepts. (Sushi is pretty expensive in Japan.) To get the prize, however, Kojiro needs five female members now and has to train them very quickly.
   
   Luckily he and Kirino, the only female member of the club, find Tamaki, a small, quiet girl student whose father is a kendo master. (Oh, kendo is Japanese martial art of sword-fighting using bamboo swords, just in case if you don't know.) Tamaki herself, as it turns out, is a very strong kendo practioner. The problem is, she is not interested.
   
   The author of the comic is Masahiro Totsuka (storyboards written by him) and the illustration is by Aguri Igarashi. The strength of her artwork lies in drawing of characters (especially girls in a slightly shojo manga fashion), not the swordfights. Actually like most Japanese comics based on sports, the comic is not just about sports. If you are looking for realistic kendo fights, this is not the place.
   
   Though the kendo club's easy-going instructor Kojiro is the character who furthers the manga's storyline, it is the attractive female students - Tamaki (nicknamed Tama-chan) and Kirino especially - that are the reason you should read "Bamboo Blade." Unfortunately, the story of Volume One is a tad slower than it should be with several flashbacks explaining Kojiro's background. We have to wait for the next volume to know more about Tama-chan, Kirino, and other interesting characters.
   
   The hit comic has been serialized in seinen magazine "Young Gangan" targeting young adult males, published by Square Enix since December, 2004. At the time of writing, 11 volumes (plus one volume of spin-off "Bamboo Blade B") have been published in Japan.
   
   [BOOK / TRANSLATION] The English edition has the same color page. FX, signs, afterword by author and illustrator are also translated. The Yen Press edition has one-page translation note.
   
   Finally you must keep this in mind. Some Japanese comics take time for characters to develop. Reading only the first volume isn't often enough to fully enjoy long-running series. If the kendo coach Kojiro is pathetic, he is made so intentionally, and more discerning readers will notice that he will change. The series has spawned eleven volumes (and spin-off and anime adaptation) and they are no fluke in highly competitive Japanese comic industry.

No comments about Bamboo Blade, Vol. 3.

5 comments about The Demon's Sermon on the Martial Arts.

1. Interesting and enjoying to read. This book is for the serious martial artist who enjoys a slightly esoteric approach to training and philosophy of the arts. I started out my training in traditional arts before adding many other modern styles such as boxing and submission grappling to my skill set and I believe yet to this day that I was served well by applying the "old school" frame of mind to modern, scientific training. The Samurai and other elite warriors of history became legendary for a reason...discipline and a complete devotion to mastering not only their weapons, but themselves and their minds. Read alongside The Book of Five Rings and others this will be a welcome addition to your library.
   
   Take care,
   Lance



2. Where it's not, it's excellent. The actual Demon's Sermon is a superb discussion of everything to do with fencing except how to use the weapon. There is no discussion of parries or cuts, but of preparation to train, preparation to fight, the conduct of combat, and the mind of the person holding the sword. All this is imparted to a swordsman as he eavesdrops on a discussion of fencing among Tengu, the demons who taught humans to fence, according to Japanese legend.
   
   The Mysterious Technique of the Cat was also a delightful and clear story on stages of learning and human nature. Again, good points, clearly articulated.
   
   A very enjoyable and thought provoking treatise on the spirit of martial disciplines.
   
   E. M. Van Court



3. I feel that this is not a book for beginners in the martial arts. The sermon remarks on this point as well. However, if you are at instructor level or higher, this book will change some concepts about yourself and your Self, especially for those beyond their thirties. This book points out that it is pointless to hold on to ephemeral things as body power, stamina, even technique, rank or wisdom, since all these are a reflection (a delusion / distraction) of the Mind and Self. I will also point out an exquisite translation and aesthetic quality of the book. A book for the rest of your lifetime.



4. This book doesn't just jump into the "Sermon" but builds into it by offering insights to certain nuances born of Eastern thought. You may not clearly understand the anecdotes, but you may become a bit less prejudiced, a bit more educated on the "Way" which pervades much of Asia's day-to-day. If you spend anytime in Asia, esp. Japan, this book may be a good choice to start out with.



5. This is a masterpiece of warrior philosophy. It is not a casual read and nor is it a story that will provide entertainment value. This is essential reading for martial artists and practitioners of eastern medicine as one of the fundamental lessons involves the cultivation of Qi. The "Demon" in this case refers to the Tengu, which are legendary throughout Japan.
   
   The Tengu is many things and comes in many forms. It is known as a mischievous and malevolent spirit that brought terror to the Japanese. The ninja made use of these legends and often impersonated Tengu to strike fear. But the Tengu is also a respected and revered symbol and is associated with Shugendo, or the Way of the Aesthetic. In this role the Tengu can be a teacher, and a protector of Buddhism who punsihed evil-doers.
   
   Practitioners of Shugendo often live alone in the mountains and are known as Yamabushi (Shinto), meaning "Mountain (Yama) Warrior (Bushi) Aesthetic" in the deeper sense. They view nature as possessing powerful Qi; in the mountains, rocks, and streams. In the wilderness they train and cultivate their energy. Their ancient roots come from China and the Taoist traditions, which is very evident in this book:
   
   "The Demon said, 'The Way cannot be seen or heard. What can be seen or heard are just traces of the Way.'
   
   The Tengu, the Yamabushi, and the ninja are all connected. Togakushi is a small village high in the Japanese alps that claims a ninja heritage that is 900-years old. There are 3 shinto shrines in the valley, and countless sacred spots throughout the mountains, which have many small waterfalls and streams. The Tengu of Togakushi takes the form of a raven. Tengu are also common in many other ninja villages like Yagyu-zato.
   
   What's incredible about this book is its really the only one on this subject in english. While sitting high on a precipice in the mountains above Togakushi, I watched a raven high above tuck its wings into a steep dive and it sounded like a katana slicing the air as it passed 15-feet away before continuing another 1000-feet down and leveling off just over the tree line. It was an odd display and there was something really powerful about it. That spirit is alive in this book, and it sheds light on where these ideas originated.
   
   The Tengu are also high techers, but only to the select few. They often took a keen interest in people who retreated to the mountains for extended training. Morihei Ueshiba, the Aikido founder learned some of his martial arts from a Tengu in the 1920's. Sword master Yagyu Muneyoshi had an epic sword duel with a Tengu during a violent lightning storm in the mountains above the village. There is rock there where supposedly his sword cut through the stone after the Tengu dodged him that is now known as Itto Seki, or "one sword stroke rock".
   
   This book deals a lot with the movement of a warrior, but perhaps a more powerful message relates to the Shugendo concepts or more specifically the cultivation of Qi. This was fundamental to the ancient Taoist masters who created powerful martial arts such as the highly advanced Ba Gua Zhang. Chozanshi is clearly advocating that we work endlessly to cultivate Qi, and through this process both our lives and our practices will excel.
   
   This book is a rare treat. It offers some very advanced material, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is a serious practitioner of the arts. Be prepared to study.

5 comments about Kendo: The Definitive Guide.

1. When it comes to martial arts, kendo is my second choice after karate. If you plan to enter a kendo dojo, read this book first. It introduces you to the world of this great art and makes you want to practice it even more. I recommend you the both: to read the book and to perform the art.



2. Having lived in Japan for 13 years and studying at a Dojo in Okinawa, I can honestly say that this book is the real deal. Ozawa-san presents the information in a no-nonsense, easy to understand format. Beginners in this time honored sport will find all they need to know to get started. Advanced Kendoists will even find this book useful, especially if they are thinking about teaching their skills to others. From simple stretching techniques to Kata, practice sessions to match refereeing, proper Gi (uniform) storage to honorably overcoming your opponent...this book has it all. If you are going to practice Kendo, you need to have this book!



3. This book presents all kendo basics and some interesting techniques. Further, it shows each kata with details. I gave it 4 stars cause I would like to see more wazas.



4. Great book. Hard to do on your own. You relly need a class and a great teacher it is all just self-taught, poor technique that will get you disqualified.



5. Excelent book. It contains all the basics of etiquette as well the Kendo techniques and katas.
   
   The book is plenty of good drawings and explanations, and it covers the way to put the bogu (armor) on,
   how to tie it, how to behave in a Dojo, the current rules, a japanese glossary, and so on.
   
   A perfect reference book for a kenshi and for a sensei.
   A great work of Mr. Hiroshi Ozawa. I consult it every time.