Ogasawara Ryu Books & DVDs

Ogasawara Ryu (小笠原流) is one of Japan's oldest and most prestigious traditional schools (koryu) specializing in archery and etiquette. Founded in the 12th century by Ogasawara Nagakiyo, a retainer of the Minamoto clan, the school has maintained an unbroken lineage for over 800 years.

Originally established as a comprehensive martial system for mounted samurai, Ogasawara Ryu developed specialized teachings in kyujutsu (archery techniques), bajutsu (horsemanship), and most notably reihō (formal etiquette and ceremonial protocol). During the peaceful Edo period (1603-1868), the school became particularly renowned for its instruction in proper etiquette and ceremony for the warrior class.

The Ogasawara family served as official etiquette instructors to the Tokugawa shogunate, codifying many of the formal protocols that became standard throughout Japanese society. Their teachings encompassed everything from proper posture and movement to the correct procedures for formal events, tea ceremony, and even daily activities like sitting and standing.

The school's archery traditions include both ceremonial shooting (reisha) and practical combat techniques (busha). Ogasawara archery is characterized by its emphasis on proper form, ritual precision, and spiritual composure rather than merely hitting targets.

Following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, when samurai society was disbanded, Ogasawara Ryu adapted by focusing more on preserving cultural traditions. Today, the school continues under the 31st generation headmaster, maintaining instruction in traditional Japanese archery, horseback archery (yabusame), and classical etiquette.

Ogasawara Ryu is recognized as an Important Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government and continues to play a significant role in ceremonial events at imperial courts and Shinto shrines. The school represents one of Japan's most enduring cultural institutions, connecting modern practitioners to centuries of samurai tradition.