Tendō-ryū

Tendō-ryū
(天道流)
Foundation
Founder Saito Hangan Denkibo Katsuhide
Date founded November 21, 1582
Period founded Late Muromachi period
Current information
Current headmaster Kimura Yasuko
Arts taught
Art Description
Naginatajutsu Glaive art
Kenjutsu - ōdachi, kodachi, nitō, tantō, kaiken Sword art - long sword, short sword, two swords, dagger
Jōjutsu Short staff art, used to simulate a broken naginata
Kusarigamajutsu Chain and sickle art
Ancestor schools
Kashima Shintō-ryū
Descendant schools
None identified

Tendō-ryū (天道流) is a koryū (school of traditional Japanese martial arts) founded in 1582 by Saito Hangan Denkibo Katsuhide.[1] It originally specializes in the use of the kenjutsu but now shift to naginata. Current headmaster (as in 2014) is 17th sōke Kimura Yasuko. Its name appears to translate to "Heavenly Path School."

In addition of naginatajutsu, Tendō-ryū includes kenjutsu (either with katana or kodachi or both at once) and techniques performed with kusarigama. Also taught are methods of combat with a broken naginata i.e. stick fighting with just the shaft of a naginata.

References

  1. Skoss, Diane (1997). Koryu Bujutsu. Classical Warrior traditions of Japan, Volume 1. New Jersey, Koryu Books. p. 81. ISBN 1-890536-04-0.