Overview

Ono Ha Itto Ryu

Principles, Techniques and Strategies

of Old Japanese Swordsmanship

In Section One the authors very briefly describe the history of Ono Ha Itto Ryu. History is not the focus of the book. The book is practical and analytical.

In Section Two the authors identify the fundamental principles of this school of Japanese sword fighting, such as distance, footwork, stances, cutting technique, attack and defence, speed, timing, breathing etc.

In Section Three, which consists of the greater part of the book, the authors describe in great detail the movement and thinking processes involved in the seventy-six (using their numbering system, but traditionally counted at 150 or so) combat engagements. These are presented in easy-to-read tables in a large high-quality hard cover book. They disaggregate this school of Japanese Swordsmanship by stripping out the romance and poetry to present the core features as something that is practical and achievable.

In Sections Four and Five the authors re-assemble the sword school in two unique ways.

In Section Four the sword school is re-assembled with an overview of the techniques of each combat engagement. e.g. counter-attacking, thrusting, deception, pressure application and release, enticing movement, distance and much more.

In Section Five the school is re-assembled with an analysis of the frequency of use of the core strategies discussed in sections Two, Three and Four. Uniquely, they suggest commonalities between Japanese and non-Japanese sword fighting. For example, what are the most popular kamae? What is the common response to the popular kamae? Which engagements use the core techniques most frequently etc.

Section Six briefly explores the inter-relationship between Ono Ha Itto Ryu and modern sport kendo, and argues that they are complementary.

Section Seven is a brief Epilogue.

Hardback
408 pages, Crown Quarto
107 illustrations, mostly in colour (examples below)