Choose your membership
Every Sunday from 00:00 am~01:00 am JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu Shunjō (Shunjō) from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, perfect English translation will be provided by Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.6M subs). You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu when samurai fought in armor.
What you can train:
Jō staff skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Shunjō (short & long) swinging exercises
Shunjō Kata, etc.
This is an example of what our lessons are like: https://youtu.be/XygZnj7Olfc
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Short Jō (3.2 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu)
*Ideally, please shorten it to 3.2 Shaku=96.9 cm/38.1 in
Long Jō (5 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu)
*5 Shaku=151.5 cm/59.6 in
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with staff. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the Jō staff regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
To train in Kobudo/Iaido, you need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu). You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
Every Saturday from 10:30 pm~11:30 pm JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.7M subs), will provide a perfect English translation. You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu, which was practiced by samurai who fought in armor.
What you can train:
Iai skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Throw draw techniques
Kenjutsu body and weapon operation
More than 50 Iai Kata
This is an example of what our lessons are like: Click here to watch
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Iaitō (training katana) OR Bokutō with sheath
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, who is a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use?
A: Please purchase an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. According to the standard length Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, for the Asayama Ichiden Ryu and Musō Shinden Ryu training, he uses a 2.6 Shaku long katana that is supposed to be used by someone who is 190cm tall. So we recommend you choose an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. For example, if you are 170cm tall, please use a 2.5 Shaku long katana.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
You need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu) to train in Kobudo/Iaido. You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
Every Sunday from 10:30 pm~11:30 pm JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.7M subs), will provide a perfect English translation. You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu, which was practiced by samurai who fought in armor.
What you can train:
Iai skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Throw draw techniques
Kenjutsu body and weapon operation
More than 50 Iai Kata
This is an example of what our lessons are like: Click here to watch
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Iaitō (training katana) OR Bokutō with sheath
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, who is a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use?
A: Please purchase an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. According to the standard length Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, for the Asayama Ichiden Ryu and Musō Shinden Ryu training, he uses a 2.6 Shaku long katana that is supposed to be used by someone who is 190cm tall. So we recommend you choose an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. For example, if you are 170cm tall, please use a 2.5 Shaku long katana.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
You need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu) to train in Kobudo/Iaido. You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
*For anyone who wants to take both the Ichiden Ryu Katana training on Saturdays and the Shunjō staff training
Every Saturday from 10:30 pm~11:30 pm and Sunday 0:00 am 1:00 am JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu Katana and Jō staff from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, perfect English translation will be provided by Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.6M subs). You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu when samurai fought in armor.
What you can train:
Iai/Kenjutsu and Jō staff skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Throw draw techniques
Kenjutsu body and weapon operation
More than 50 Iai Kata
Shunjō (short & long) swinging exercises
Shunjō Kata, etc.
This is an example of what our lessons are like: Click here to watch
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Iaitō (training katana) OR Bokutō with sheath
Short Jō (3.2 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu)
*Ideally, please shorten it to 3.2 Shaku=96.9 cm/38.1 in
Long Jō (5 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu)
*5 Shaku=151.5 cm/59.6 in
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, who is a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use?
A: Please purchase an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. According to the standard length Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, for the Asayama Ichiden Ryu and Musō Shinden Ryu training, he uses a 2.6 Shaku long katana that is supposed to be used by someone who is 190cm tall. So we recommend you choose an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. For example, if you are 170cm tall, please use a 2.5 Shaku long katana.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
You need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu) to train in Kobudo/Iaido. You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
*For anyone who wants to take both the Ichiden Ryu Katana training on Sundays and the Shunjō staff training
Every Sunday from 10:30 pm~11:30 pm and Sunday 0:00 am 1:00 am JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu Katana and Jō staff from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, perfect English translation will be provided by Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.6M subs). You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu when samurai fought in armor.
What you can train:
Iai/Kenjutsu and Jō staff skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Throw draw techniques
Kenjutsu body and weapon operation
More than 50 Iai Kata
Shunjō (short & long) swinging exercises
Shunjō Kata, etc.
This is an example of what our lessons are like: Click here to watch
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Iaitō (training katana) OR Bokutō with sheath
Short Jō (3.2 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu)
*Ideally, please shorten it to 3.2 Shaku=96.9 cm/38.1 in
Long Jō (5 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu)
*5 Shaku=151.5 cm/59.6 in
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, who is a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use?
A: Please purchase an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. According to the standard length Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, for the Asayama Ichiden Ryu and Musō Shinden Ryu training, he uses a 2.6 Shaku long katana that is supposed to be used by someone who is 190cm tall. So we recommend you choose an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. For example, if you are 170cm tall, please use a 2.5 Shaku long katana.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
You need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu) to train in Kobudo/Iaido. You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
*For anyone who wants to take both the Ichiden Ryu Katana training on Saturdays and the Sundays
Every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 pm~11:30 pm JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.7M subs), will provide a perfect English translation. You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu, which was practiced by samurai who fought in armor.
What you can train:
Iai skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Throw draw techniques
Kenjutsu body and weapon operation
More than 50 Iai Kata
This is an example of what our lessons are like: Click here to watch
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Iaitō (training katana) OR Bokutō with sheath
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, who is a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use?
A: Please purchase an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. According to the standard length Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, for the Asayama Ichiden Ryu and Musō Shinden Ryu training, he uses a 2.6 Shaku long katana that is supposed to be used by someone who is 190cm tall. So we recommend you choose an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. For example, if you are 170cm tall, please use a 2.5 Shaku long katana.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
You need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu) to train in Kobudo/Iaido. You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
*For anyone who wants to take all three lessons we provide
Every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 pm~11:30 pm JST and Sunday from 00:00 am~01:00 am JST (some weeks may be irregular), you can participate in the Zoom lessons of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu Iai and Jō from the 22nd headmaster Seki Nohuhide Sensei. No previous martial arts experience is required; you are always free to join.
Even if you do not speak Japanese, Shogo, the owner of the YouTube channel Let's ask Shogo (1.7M subs), will provide a perfect English translation. You will also have full access to the archive videos of the lessons in case you can't make it.
How the Online Lessons are Held:
The link and password for the Zoom meeting will be shared through the membership-limited posts on Patreon every week
Use the link and password to join the online lessons
The archived video of each lesson will be posted on Patreon ASAP
What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu:
Asayama Ichiden Ryu is an ancient Japanese Budo martial art style with 400 years of history. It strongly reflects the art of Kenjutsu, which was practiced by samurai who fought in armor.
What you can train:
Iai and Jō skills of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu (which you can practice independently at home).
Throw draw techniques
Kenjutsu body and weapon operation
More than 50 Iai Kata
Shunjō (short & long) swinging exercises
Shunjō Kata, etc.
This is an example of what our lessons are like: Click here to watch
Equipment you need to take part in the online lessons:
One of Japan's best budo goods-producing companies Tozando
Iaitō (training katana) OR Bokutō with sheath
Short Jō (3.2 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu) *Ideally, please shorten it to 3.2 Shaku=96.9 cm/38.1 in
Long Jō (5 Shaku, White Oak, 8 Bu) *5 Shaku=151.5 cm/59.6 in
Why you should choose us:
★A Rare Ancient Style with 400 Years of History
Asayama Ichiden Ryu was born at the end of the Sengoku war era (1467~1615) in Japanese history. It’s a rare style that strongly reflects the fighting methods in samurai armor.
★Earning Official Dan ranks and the right to open your own dojo
By passing exams held two times a year (March and September), you can earn official Dan ranks (first to fifth) and certificates to prove it. You can also participate in the annual training camps held in Japan.
★Shogo interprets everything perfectly in English
Shogo from “Let’s ask Shogo (1.6M subs)”, who is a student of this Ryuha himself, will interpret everything in English perfectly. If you have any questions for Seki Sensei, he will be happy to help anytime.
★Archived Videos are Free to Rewatch Anytime
Even if you miss a class or the regular lesson time doesn't fit your schedule, every lesson will be recorded for you to rewatch as many times as you like. Whenever you join our online lessons, you can access all the previous lessons to catch up to the classes anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up?
A: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the previous lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback.
Q: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use?
A: Please purchase an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. According to the standard length Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, for the Asayama Ichiden Ryu and Musō Shinden Ryu training, he uses a 2.6 Shaku long katana that is supposed to be used by someone who is 190cm tall. So we recommend you choose an Iaitō that is two blocks longer than the standard length. For example, if you are 170cm tall, please use a 2.5 Shaku long katana.
Q: I don’t have the training gear yet. Can I start training?
You need the Dōgi, Hakama, and inner Obi (and outer Obi in Asayama Ichiden Ryu) to train in Kobudo/Iaido. You just need the Obi, Iaitō, or Bokuto (wooden katana) to start the training. However, if you don’t have the full training gear, you cannot participate in the online performances, Shōdan Dan promotion exams, tournaments, and training camps. Be sure to purchase everything before events are held.
Q: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style?
Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing.
Have other questions?
- Weekly 60min Zoom Lessons
- Full Access to Videos of Previous Lessons
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