Araki Ryu DVDs

Araki-ryū (荒木流) s a traditional Japanese martial art system (koryū) with roots dating back to the late 16th century. Here's an overview of this historical martial tradition:

Origins and Founding

Founded by Araki Mujinsai Minamoto no Hidetsuna in the late 1500s
Originally established during Japan's Sengoku period (Age of Warring States)
The founder is said to have studied various martial arts before developing his own comprehensive system

System and Curriculum

Comprehensive martial system that originally included a wide range of weapons and unarmed techniques
Notable focus on battlefield weapons including the spear (yari), halberd (naginata), and staff (bō)
Contains distinctive iaijutsu (sword-drawing) techniques
Features unique kogusoku (grappling with light armor) methods
Incorporates both armed and unarmed combat approaches

Historical Development

Split into numerous branches (ha) throughout its history
Different lineages preserved different aspects of the curriculum
Some branches emphasized weapons training while others focused more on grappling
Several notable branches include Araki-ryū Gunyo Kogusoku and Araki-ryū Torite Kogusoku

Modern Preservation

One of the less commonly practiced koryū in modern times
Preserved by a small number of practitioners in Japan
Considered an important part of Japan's martial heritage
Some branches have been documented through densho (transmission scrolls)

Characteristics

Known for practical, direct techniques developed for battlefield application
Emphasizes efficient movement and decisive action
Contains distinctive strategic principles for combat
Features a comprehensive approach that integrates various weapons and empty-hand methods

Araki-ryū represents an important part of Japan's martial heritage, offering insights into combat methods from Japan's warring periods. While less widely practiced than some other traditional martial arts, it continues to be preserved by dedicated practitioners committed to maintaining this historical tradition.