Niten Ichi-ryu Heiho Kenjutsu

Translated as the “Way of Two Heavens as One style,” Niten Ichi-ryu is the tradition of swordsmanship established by the famous swordsman Miyamoto Musashi before his death in 1645.  Famous for participating in more than sixty duels and never having been defeated, Musashi is known as Kensei, or as a “sword-saint” in Japan.  The art is famous for its unique method of dual wielding the short and long swords in unison, a method which Musashi used to gain his fearsome reputation.  Fiercely proud and pragmatic, Musashi dismissed what he perceived as useless actions or flamboyant brandishing of the sword, as Niten Ichi-ryu demonstrates through its tradition of strictly practicing Kenjutsu. ​

Curriculum 

The art contains Itto Seiho techniques for using the long sword or Katana, Shoto Seiho for the short sword known as the Wakizashi, and Nito Seiho or techniques for using the two in conjunction with one another.  Although rigid and simplistic in appearance, there are many subtle movements to master in the techniques; and a deep underlying spiritualism or psychology for one to study through Musashi’s preserved writings for those interested.  The Gorin no Sho, Musashi’s famous treatise on tactics and swordsmanship, (or translated as the Book of Five Rings here in the West,) remains an inspiration to the martial arts practitioners and businessmen a like still today. ​

Starting your training

New bugeisha and experienced a like are welcome to watch a class, and if interested begin their own training.  All that is required are bokuto or bokken (wooden swords) produced in the unique Niten Ichi-ryu geometry, and plain colored athletic clothing, (please no distracting designs or flamboyant colors.)