Yagyu Shingan Ryu Books & DVDs

Yagyu Shingan Ryu (柳生心眼流) is one of Japan's historic martial arts schools (koryu), with origins dating back to the early Edo period. Founded by Takenaga Hayato in the early 17th century, the style developed as an offshoot of the famous Yagyu Shinkage Ryu swordsmanship tradition, though it evolved into a distinct system focused on close-quarters combat.

The name "Shingan" means "mind's eye" or "heart's eye," reflecting the school's philosophical emphasis on perception beyond physical sight and developing heightened awareness in combat situations. This principle guides practitioners to sense opponents' intentions before they manifest as physical actions.

Yagyu Shingan Ryu is primarily known for its jujutsu system, which includes unarmed grappling techniques, joint locks, strikes, and throws designed for battlefield effectiveness. The curriculum traditionally includes weapons training such as sword, staff, chain-and-sickle (kusari-gama), and various other implements common to feudal Japan.

The school survived through the generations by being passed down through specific lineages. One prominent branch is Yagyu Shingan Ryu Taijutsu, transmitted through the Sendai region of Japan. Another significant branch is Yagyu Shingan Ryu Heihojutsu, which continued in the Edo (Tokyo) region.

Unlike many martial arts that were modified extensively for modern practice, Yagyu Shingan Ryu maintains many of its traditional training methods, including kata (formal patterns) that date back centuries. The school's techniques often emphasize minimal movement, strategic positioning, and efficient application of force rather than strength.

Today, Yagyu Shingan Ryu remains a relatively rare martial tradition with a small number of authentic practitioners worldwide, primarily in Japan but with some international branches. It represents an important piece of Japanese martial heritage and continues to transmit both combative techniques and philosophical principles from Japan's feudal era.