Yamate Aiki-budō is a comprehensive tradition of deeply sophisticated jūjutsu (aiki-jūjutsu).

Aiki-jūjutsu is remarkably effective and tactically flexible, making it ideal for personal protection. Properly executed, this art does not rely upon speed or power. Instead, sophisticated technique and perfect timing unite with a dynamic spiritual intensity, immediately unbalancing and dominating an opponent. The creation of this dynamic, spiritual intensity does not happen in a void; it is the result of sustained immersion in the system's teachings and traditions.

 

Observing junior-level practice of Yamate Aiki-budō may resemble modern styles of aikidō, but that similarity is superficial. As the art’s lineage connects directly to the Daitō-ryū (not Ueshiba Morihei’s Aikidō) there are many techniques not seen in more modern arts. Most of these are pure Daitō-ryū or slight variations thereof, and some are unique.

 

A major foundational stone of the tradition is its Gokyō—the “Five Teachings.” These are five groups of techniques that make up the mudansha (pre-black belt) testing requirements. This is learned and performed as a formal, two-person kata (nage and uke). This means that every move, even how one moves between the techniques, is graded. While some may consider the rigidity of the Gokyō restrictive, it undoubtedly leads to faster learning and proprioception.

 

The entirety of the Yamate Aiki-budō syllabus is known as the Sōden (inherited teachings) of which there are more than one thousand teachings. (Note: The techniques featured in the Gokyō are typically “softer” versions of a Sōden waza.) The Sōden also contains:

 

• Jōjutsu (4’ staff)

• Atemi-hō (striking techniques)

• Tachi and tantō-dori (weapon disarms)

• Osae-waza (a multitude of complex pinning techniques)

• Kuden (vitally important oral teachings)

 

Aikijūjutsu was originally developed by, and for, senior swordsmen of the Takeda clan. Yamate Aiki-budō retains the study of the sword as a vehicle to enhance and understand the technical and tactical roots of aikijūjutsu. The spirit and mechanics of cutting are also vitally important in proper execution of the unarmed techniques.  

 

Aikijūjutsu is, without a doubt, one of the most complex and fascinating martial arts. Incredibly beautiful, it can also seem nearly magical. Watch a well-executed technique, and it appears almost effortless—largely because, when performed correctly, it requires remarkably little visible effort.

 

Is it difficult to learn? Of course. And that is part of its enduring fascination. Many of aikijūjutsu’s most renowned exponents continued practicing and teaching well into advanced age, ceaselessly refining and deepening their art until the very end of their lives.