Kyuzo Mifune Judo Memoir Book (Preowned)

Judo Memoir is the autobiographical account of legendary Kodokan judo master Kyuzo Mifune (三船久蔵), one of the most celebrated technicians in judo history. Mifune reflects on his life in judo while explaining the principles, training methods, and philosophy that shaped his extraordinary approach to the art.

The book discusses the development of judo, its transformation from technique into a do or “way,” fundamental principles of practice, throwing and groundwork, counters, joint locks, chokes, defensive methods, ura-waza (reversal techniques), katsu resuscitation methods, and other aspects of classical Kodokan judo. It also includes photographs and biographical material.

Originally published in 1953, this pictured edition was issued in 1981 as volume 9 of the Sports ni Ikiru (“Living Through Sports”) series. It contains 218 pages.

An important historical work for judo practitioners, martial arts historians, and collectors, offering a firsthand perspective from one of the most influential judoka of the twentieth century.

About the Author:

Kyuzo Mifune (1883–1965), born in Kuji City, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, was a judo legend, revered as the "God of Judo" and considered the greatest technician after Jigoro Kano, judo’s founder. Introduced to judo at 13 in Sendai, he joined the Kodokan in 1903, earning shodan in just 15 months and nidan four months later. Known for his speed, precision, and innovative techniques like the "airplane" throw (kuki nage), Mifune was never defeated in Kodokan’s Red and White tournaments. He reached 10th dan in 1945, one of only 15 judoka to achieve this rank. His 1956 book, The Canon of Judo, remains a definitive work on judo’s history, philosophy, and techniques. Mifune’s small stature—5’2”, 100 pounds—belied his ability to dominate larger opponents, including a 6-foot, 240-pound sumo wrestler. He taught globally, shaping judo’s post-war resurgence, and died of throat cancer in Tokyo.

Length: 218 pages

Language: Japanese

Publication date: 1981