In addition to being a retired SekkotsuiSekkotsui (a.k.a. Honetsugi) are skilled in physical therapy, accupuncture, and the treatment of physical trauma, such as sprains and broken bones., an artist, actor and musician, Hatsumi Masaaki is also lineage holder (Soke) and master-instructor (Shihan) of numerous classical Japanese martial traditions. These traditions form the basis of Bujinkan Budo.
Hatsumi-sensei studied many different martial arts, with many teachers, during his youth and young adult life. By his mid twenties he had achieved high black belt (dan) ranks in Shito Ryu Karate (6th dan) and Kodokan Judo (4th dan) and menkyo-kaidenLit: "License of Complete Transmission".
The recipient has learned everything that the school can teach, and is licensed to pass on all aspects of their training. in another four classical martial traditionsAsayama Ichiden Ryu Taijutsu, Shinden Fudo Ryu Jutaijutsu, Bokuden Ryu Jujutsu, and Shinto Tenshin Koryu Kempo..
Staring Into the Face of Budo
Through one of his early teachers, Hatsumi-sensei met the renowned master-instructor Takamatsu Toshitsugu. In regard to this meeting, Hatsumi-sensei said that he found himself "staring into the face of Budo and found it glaring back". This encounter marked the beginning of his 15 year apprenticeship under Takamatsu-sensei, and his succession as the Soke of the another nine classical martial traditionsHatsumi-sensei is Soke of the following martial traditions; Gyokko Ryu Kosshijutsu, Koto Ryu Koppojutsu, Gikan Ryu Koppojutsu, Hontai Takagi Yoshin Ryu Jutaijutsu, Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakentaijutsu, Kukishinden Ryu Happobiken, Gyokushin Ryu Ninpo, Kumogakure Ryu Ninpo, and Togakure Ryu Ninpo..
For 15 years, from 1957-1972, Hatsumi-sensei made regular trips across Japan by train to study with Takamatsu Toshitsugu. Between visits, he would practice the lessons given to him with a very small group of students. He would also pour over letters and other documents he received from his teacher to help guide his practice until they met again.
Hatsumi-sensei was taught the strategies and techniques of the many martial traditions Takamatsu-sensei had inherited from his teachers. Training focused on what Hatsumi-sensei now calls Jissengata (lit: Real fighting technique) and Shinkengata (Lit: True sword technique). On the surface, these terms refer to training for the realities of violent confrontation (not competition). On a deeper level they imply delving into the 'truth(s)' of life/living; the realities of life, living and dying.
The Next Generation
Hatsumi-sensei spent the years following Takamatsu-sensei's passing deciphering much of what he was taught. In the mid 1970's he formally established the Bujinkan Dojo and dedicated himself to passing on the strategies and techniques as he had learned. The name Bujinkan, "Hall of the Divine Warrior", was chosen to honor the memory of his teacher and the legacy he had passed on.
From the mid 1980's to 2001, Hatsumi-sensei travelled around the world each year teaching special 3-day seminars (Taikai). At the peak he was teaching between five to seven Taikai a year, teaching in as many different countries and to as many people as possible.
During his travels Hatsumi-sensei received numerous requests to give lectures, demonstrations and guidance to international organizations. This web page lists some of his awards, letters of recognition and achievements.
Now in his late 70's, Hatsumi-sensei continues to teach ongoing classes at the Bujinkan Hombu and the Tokyo Budokan. He also continues to produce books and videos highlighting the many aspects of Bujinkan martial arts.
The current series of books
(2004) Way of the Ninja
(2005) Advanced Stick Fighting
(2006) Japanese Sword Fighting
(2008) Unarmed Fighting Techniques of the Samurai
include direct translations of many scrolls from his personal collection. The next book in this series, working title "Budo no Gokui" [The Essence of Martial Arts], is due for publication in 2010.
Future Generations
In early 2009 Hatsumi-sensei announced plans to construct a much larger facility to serve as Hombu Dojo. The goal is to build within 3-5 years. Once complete, the new Hombu will serve as a 'home' for all members of the Bujinkan, and help preserve the heritage of the Bujinkan for future generations.
