Tennen Rishin-ryū: (天然理心流) The Divine Natural Reason School

Tennen Rishin-ryū is a classical Japanese martial tradition (koryū) with significant historical importance, particularly during Japan's turbulent late Edo and early Meiji periods. Here's an overview of this influential martial system:

Origins and Founding

• Founded by Kondō Kuranosuke Nagahiro in the late 18th century (circa 1789)
• Developed in the Edo period, centered in the Tama region west of Edo (Tokyo)
• The name translates approximately to "Divine Natural Reason School"
• Evolved from earlier martial traditions with influences from various sword schools
• Formalized during the relatively peaceful middle-to-late Edo period

Technical Characteristics

• Comprehensive martial system focusing primarily on swordsmanship (kenjutsu)
• Also includes jūjutsu (unarmed techniques), bōjutsu (staff), and other weapons training
• Known for practical, direct techniques suitable for actual combat
• Features distinctive striking methods and footwork patterns
• Emphasizes rapid, decisive techniques with minimal telegraphing
• Contains various kata (forms) organized in progressive sets

Historical Significance

• Rose to prominence through its association with the Shinsengumi, the famous police force of Kyoto
• Kondō Isami, the commander of the Shinsengumi, was a master of this style
• Many Shinsengumi members trained in this tradition
• Played a significant role during the tumultuous bakumatsu period (end of the Tokugawa shogunate)
• Represented the martial skill of the pro-shogunate forces during Japan's transition to the modern era

Notable Figures

• Kondō Isami (1834-1868), the famous leader of the Shinsengumi, was a master-level practitioner
• Hijikata Toshizō, vice-commander of the Shinsengumi, also trained in this tradition
• Several other prominent Shinsengumi members were exponents of this style
• The Kondō family maintained the tradition through multiple generations

Modern Preservation

• Continues to be practiced in Japan, though less widely known than some other koryū
• Maintains traditional training methodology and curriculum
• Preserves important technical aspects of Edo-period swordsmanship
• Often studied by those with interest in Shinsengumi history
• Represents an important link to Japan's martial heritage during a critical historical period

Tennen Rishin-ryū stands as both a sophisticated martial system and a living connection to one of Japan's most dramatic historical periods. Its association with the Shinsengumi has cemented its place in Japanese martial and cultural history.