Secrets of Itto Ryu: Book Four by Junzo Sasamori

Secrets of Itto Ryu: Book Four by Junzo Sasamori

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The First and Only English Translation of a Once Secret Samurai Swordsmanship Manual

For the first time, the foundational scrolls of one of Japan’s most elite samurai sword schools are revealed to English-speaking readers.

Secrets of Ittō-ryū: Book Four is the fourth volume of the first and only English-language translation of Ittō-ryū Gokui, originally published in Japan in 1965. This book explores the inner teachings—the once secret core philosophy—of Ono-ha Ittō-ryū, a school of kenjutsu that shaped the development of modern martial arts including kendo, Daitō-ryū aikijūjutsu, and aikido.

Written by Sasamori Junzō, the 16th headmaster of Ono-ha Ittō-ryū and a renowned expert in kendo (8th Dan, Hanshi), this volume distills over 70 years of study and practice into a clear, detailed exposition of the school’s most closely guarded teachings.

What You’ll Find in This Volume:

  • A full translation of the four secret scrolls of Ono-ha Ittō-ryū—revealed in English for the first time
  • Detailed commentary on each scroll, based on the author's personal interpretation and research
  • The dimensions, fittings, and specifications of the long and short swords used in the tradition
  • The author’s concise summary of the key lessons of these scrolls distilled into ten lessons
  • Insights into how these teachings influence today’s martial arts, offering valuable perspective for practitioners of kendo, aikido, Daitō-ryū, and related disciplines


With annotations by Mark Hague, the highest-ranking non-Japanese practitioner of mainline Ono-ha Ittō-ryū and direct student of Sasamori Takemi, this book offers not just translation but context—making complex classical teachings accessible and relevant.

Whether you're a martial artist, historian, or student of Japanese culture, this book offers unparalleled access to a foundational school of samurai strategy and swordsmanship.

About the Author

Sasamori Junzō (1886-1976) was the headmaster (sōke) of the ancient Japanese martial arts of Ono-ha Ittō-ryū, Chokugen-ryū naginata, and Shinmusō Hayashizaki-ryū iado. He also achieved the rank of 8th dan in kendo. He gained fame within Japan's martial arts community for his work in keeping the authorities under General Douglas MacArthur from completely banning the practice of kendo during the U.S.' postwar occupation of Japan, efforts that cemented his place in the annals of Japanese history as one of the saviors of Japan's martial arts. His life was much more than just the sword, however. He worked as a reporter for newspapers and political magazines in Japan and the U.S., served as the chancellor of two educational institutions, was a statesman, serving in the legislature, the cabinet, and ministerial posts for over two decades, and founded his own Christian church in Tokyo. Born into a samurai family a little over a decade after the samurai class was abolished, Junzō was a key link between the modern world and Japan's samurai past.

Language: English

Length: 272 pages

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