I got up early for a long train ride to 石神井城跡 Shakujiijō ato. I wanted to investigate the ruins of Shakujii castle. This also gave me some time for reflection on my training here in Japan and to add more detail to my training notes.
Bujinkan training in Japan isn't only about training. Sometimes it is about cultural experiences you might have there. And sometimes you might even find healing in the dojo!
My Bujinkan video with the latest training updates from Japan. The Japan training schedule is irregular and I am following my instincts rather than any set schedule.
my Bujinkan Kuden describing my trip to Arizona to study 抜刀術 Battōjutsu with Peter Crocoll. I went to LAX airport at 6 am and took the short flight to Phoenix. My friend Jeff met me at the airport and I teased him about his konbini pancake obsession.
Nagato had some really interesting variations on catching the opponent’s rhythm as you walk past. Some had kamae like a helicopter, picking up the uke’s collar. Another henka had you reverse to walk backwards to catch his hand in a really subtle way.
I was surprised when he asked me to now show another technique. I had no clue what to do, so I just motioned for Peter to grab my lapel. Again, didn’t wait for an attack, I just used Peter’s elbow on the grabbing hand to affect his balance, Then covered his opposite side, before picking that arm up for an omote.
Sunday 5/19/13 I went to Arizona to train with Peter Crocoll. Peter began class by hanging up a scroll that Hatsumi Sensei had painted for him a few years ago. あも一寸の玉 虫 amo issun no tama mushi The scroll reads あも一寸の玉 虫 amo issun no tama mushi. This has been a theme that Hatsumi Sensei has emphasized...