Yoshinori Kono Books & DVDs

Yoshinori Kono (甲野 善紀) is a renowned contemporary Japanese martial arts master known for his unorthodox approach and profound technical insights. Born in 1950 in Japan, Kono began his martial journey studying traditional styles including Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu and classical Japanese swordsmanship.

What distinguishes Kono is his research-oriented approach to martial arts. Rather than adhering strictly to any single tradition, he has devoted decades to analyzing and decoding the underlying principles common to effective martial techniques across different systems. His methodology involves meticulous study of historical texts, old scrolls, and direct experimentation.

Kono gained significant recognition in the 1980s when he published his findings in martial arts magazines, challenging many conventional teachings and demonstrating alternative interpretations of classical techniques. His writings on body mechanics, internal power, and practical application have influenced practitioners across numerous disciplines.

Unlike many traditional teachers, Kono does not claim lineage to any specific ryu (school) or emphasize hierarchical rankings. Instead, he focuses on his ongoing research and discoveries, which he shares through seminars and his private dojo near Tokyo. His teaching style emphasizes principles rather than forms, encouraging students to develop sensitivity and understanding rather than merely replicating movements.

Kono is particularly noted for his expertise in subtle body mechanics, the use of connected power (often called internal strength), and his remarkable ability to neutralize force with minimal movement. Though somewhat reclusive compared to more commercially oriented martial artists, he has attracted serious students from around the world seeking his unique insights.

Through his research and teaching, Kono represents a bridge between classical Japanese martial traditions and modern biomechanical understanding, preserving essential knowledge while encouraging critical thinking and personal discovery.