Koryu

A basic definition of koryu is "old flow", or “traditional school”. The term is used in Japanese to refer to old styles, schools, or traditions in many disciplines. It is a term used for Japanese martial arts that predate the Meiji Restoration in Japan’s history.

The practice of a koryu martial art is normally quite different from a modern martial arts tradition. Koryu arts will generally not be competition or sport focused, but will instead pursue combat effectiveness, discipline, moral/ethical teachings, and spiritual development.

In the case of the Bujinkan, the practice is focused on 18 traditional disciplines, or areas of study, and nine schools that have been inherited by our Soke, Masaaki Hatsumi.

“Complete mastery of budo in ancient times allowed warriors to make flying birds drop by using kiai (spirit shout) and could also use this against the enemies. This power was the result of training in the martial virtues. Training with the essence of breaking evil and allowing just to prevail. If I paraphrase this you could say, the way to attain the summit is to follow the laws of nature.”

— Kukishinden Ryu, Amatsu Tatara Hibun
(historical teaching from one of the nine Bujinkan schools)