Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu (天真正伝香取神道流)

Tenshinsho-den Katori Shinto Ryu was founded in 1447 by Iizasa Choisai Ienao in the Katori region of Shimosa province (present-day Katori city, Chiba prefecture), and is the source from which many Japanese martial arts have evolved. Although known for its kenjutsu, it is a comprehensive martial art with many disciplines. At approximately sixty years of age, Iizasa undertook a thousand days of prayer and austere training devoted to the deity of the Katori Shrine, within its grounds. It is said that the deity then presented him with a divine scroll on the warrior arts. Since the art was received through divine transmission, Iizasa named it “Tenshinsho-den” (direct and authentic transmission from the deities) Katori Shinto Ryu. The tradition has been handed down to the present day and taught at the Shinbukan dojo in Narita, Japan.

​Shinbukan Dojo’s practice of Katori Shinto Ryu follows the teachings passed down from Hayashi Sakuichiro Shihan to Hayashi Yazaemon Shihan, who was then succeeded by Otake Risuke Shihan (Shinbukan Dojo founder). Practice at the Shinbukan is currently led by Otake Nobutoshi Shihan, with the support of several shihandai.

In 1960, through the efforts of Hayashi Yazaemon Shihan and Otake Risuke Shihan, Katori Shinto Ryu was awarded the status of Intangible Cultural Asset of Chiba Prefecture by the Chiba Prefecture Office of Education, Department for the Promotion of Education, Section for Cultural Assets. The tradition was the first martial art in Japan to be designated as such. Otake Nobutoshi Shihan holds the official title of Guardian, as designated by the authority of the Chiba Prefecture Office of Education. ​

Joining the tradition

Even today, those interested in joining the tradition must sign an oath to the deities of the Katori Shrine. This blood oath is a tradition that has been transmitted for generations. It ensures that aspiring students understand the correct attitude with which they are expected to approach entry to and study within the tradition.

Those joining the Melbourne Shibu will eventually need to travel to the Shinbukan dojo to formally join the tradition.

Applicants pledge to uphold the following rules:​

Oath to the Supreme Deities

On becoming a member of the Tenshinsho-den Katori Shinto Ryu, which has been transmitted by the Great Deity of the Katori Shrine, I herewith affirm my pledge that:

– I will not have the impertinence to discuss or demonstrate details of the ryu to either non-members or members, even if they are relatives;

– I will not engage in altercations or misuse the art against others;

– I will not engage in any kind of gambling or frequent disreputable places;

– I will not cross swords with any followers of other martial traditions without authorization.

I hereby pledge to firmly adhere to each of the above articles. Should I break any of these articles I will submit to the punishment of the Great Deity of Katori and the Great Deity Marishiten. Herewith I solemnly swear and affix my blood seal to this oath to these Great Deities.

Melbourne Shibu

In January 2026, the Melbourne group was given official status as a shibu and instructs the art as is taught at the Shinbukan dojo. The Shidosha and members maintain regular communication with the Shinbukan dojo and regulary visit Japan for further training.