GEKIKEN SCHOOL

Gekiken Taisoho (Foundational Training Method)

Gekiken Taisōhō is a structured training program that takes the movements of Japanese jūjutsu as its foundation and incorporates training elements derived from research into the classical manuscripts of Tennen Rishin-ryū and other classical traditions. Its purpose is to provide a systematic pathway through which practitioners, regardless of prior experience, can engage freely in shinai exchange (Gekiken).

The system is organized into three progressive levels:

  • Shoden (初伝) – Development of body control and the fundamental movements required by our club.

  • Chūden (中伝) – Introduction of responding techniques, tsuba-zeriai (close engagement at the guard), and simple throwing methods.

  • Okuden (奥伝) – Refinement of initiating techniques and deeper understanding of the practical flow and exchanges of Gekiken.

Advancement is based on demonstrated technical clarity, applied ability in live exchange, and appropriate conduct. The objective is not rank for its own sake, but the steady refinement of effective and functional skill.

Historically, as Gekiken equipment became standardized, its form gradually came to resemble what is now modern kendo. Our aim, however, is to practice Gekiken in a manner closer to its earlier phase, when movements derived from kata were more directly reflected and each practitioner’s individual movement was fully expressed.

The Gekiken School

The Gekiken School is intended for:

  • Practitioners of gendai budō

  • Individuals without prior martial experience who wish to study Gekiken without entering a traditional ryuha
  • Members of koryū traditions that do not include jigeiko in their curriculum

The Tokyo Gekiken Club is not a ryuha. Participation does not require formal affiliation with a classical lineage, though technical rigor and seriousness of practice are expected.

 

The purpose of the school is to provide a clear and realistic approach to sword training, grounded in classical movement principles while developing the ability to function effectively in live exchange.

 

For beginners, the system offers a progressive path toward competent participation in Gekiken.

 

For practitioners from established traditions, it provides a framework through which free exchange can be explored without altering or replacing their original technical system. The intention is not to modify existing traditions, but to offer a platform where applied interaction can be developed respectfully and independently.

Instruction for Overseas Practitioners

For practitioners outside Japan, the Tokyo Gekiken Club offers a structured three-level program: Shoden, Chūden, and Okuden.

Each level is taught through an intensive two-day seminar where participants learn the required concepts, kata, exercises, and technical principles. After the seminar, the material must be studied and practiced for one full year while maintaining regular contact with the club. Study materials are provided, and technical progress is reviewed online through ongoing guidance and analysis.

At the end of that year, an in-person examination is conducted to confirm technical clarity, applied ability in live exchange, and appropriate conduct. Only upon passing this examination may the practitioner proceed to the next level.

Completion of all three levels signifies that the practitioner has demonstrated sufficient technical competence and understanding within the framework of the Tokyo Gekiken Club, obtaining instructor recognition and the possibility to operate their own club in their country if they choose to do so.

The process is rigorous. Technical quality, realism, and responsible conduct are essential at every stage.