Takizawa sensei's explanation of kiriotoshi
This video was taken from Takizawa sensei's recent visit. He demonstrates a technique called kiriotoshi This technique is the specialty of the Itto Ryu, which is an old style of Japanese swordsmanship that had a large influence on Kendo. The aim is to cut through you opponent's attack and steal the centre line from them, while they cut you . It is a very difficult and subtle technique. Watching how easy T sensei makes it look might inspire you to give it a try.
Ben, are these kids being taught (or corrected on) bowing technique? I've heard that Westerners "bow with an accent". To what degree is there variation amongst Japanese, particularly regional? In other words, can someone tell roughly which region or socio-economic background you're from by your bow?
ReplyDeleteMy impression is they're probably being taught the basics of bowing, like we teach our beginners in kendo. Most Japanese kids don't know this stuff. BTW you should check out http://www.ogasawara-ryu.gr.jp/english/index.html
ReplyDeleteIt is one of the oldest schools of martial arts but is most famous for its etiquette. In fact I've read that nearly all forms of Japanese etiquette come from this ryu. The old nanna i that in the pic could well be from there.
b