Sunday, October 13, 2019

Swordplay at Togami Shrine


After dropping down from the mountains to the river valley that would lead to my hotel for the night in Hayato City, I spied a big red torii across the rice paddies and headed over to investigate. The torii had a chrysanthemum emblem indicating a connection to the imperial clan.


Togami Shrine was established in the early 8th Century after the Yamato sent a 10,000 strong army to subdue the Hayato people who were resisting the Yamato. Following the war the Yamato removed many Hayato to other parts of Japan and moved  non-Yamato settlers into Hayato territory.


While at the shrine some local people were obviously practising some kind of sword-based martial art, though not having much interest in martial arts, nor in swords and samurai and such, I have no idea what the style/art is.



What is obvious is that it was about fighting against multiple opponents. maybe it is a variation on kendo. If anyone knows please let me know,

2 comments:

  1. It's Yakumaru Jigen-ryu.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YniY8SoNF2c

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  2. I just love how they don't have helmets or padding. It takes self responsibility to a new level, plus the bruises would be a good teacher.

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