Sword Kamae Positions Taught by the Bujinkan School
The Bujinkan school, founded by Masaaki Hatsumi, is renowned for its training in ninjutsu and samurai arts, including the use of the katana. Within the school’s curriculum, various sword positions, or kamae, are taught. These postures are essential for adapting to different combat situations and emphasize strategy, timing, and fluidity, allowing practitioners to respond effectively in battle. Below, we explore some of the key sword positions taught in Bujinkan training.
Chūdan-no-Kamae (Middle Guard Position)
Chūdan-no-kamae is one of the most fundamental and commonly used stances in Bujinkan sword training. In this position, the katana is held at waist height, with the blade pointed forward toward the opponent’s chest. This posture is versatile, as it allows the practitioner to easily switch between offensive and defensive moves. It offers balance and flexibility, enabling quick strikes or blocks with precision.
“Chūdan-no-kamae allows for both defense and attack and is central to the Bujinkan approach to sword training” (Hatsumi, 2004).
Jōdan-no-Kamae (High Guard Position)
In jōdan-no-kamae, the katana is held above the head, with the blade angled downward at about a 45-degree angle. This position is primarily used to deliver powerful downward strikes, and it is often the starting point for aggressive offensive techniques. The high guard is effective for attacking the upper body of the opponent while maintaining the option to defend if necessary.
“The high guard position in Bujinkan swordsmanship is crucial for both offensive and defensive capabilities, offering immediate access to a downward strike” (Hatsumi, 2004).
Gedan-no-Kamae (Low Guard Position)
The gedan-no-kamae is a defensive stance in which the katana is held low, near the waist or slightly lower, with the blade pointed downward. This posture is typically used to defend against low attacks, such as strikes aimed at the legs or lower body. It also enables the practitioner to quickly move into upward strikes, catching the opponent off guard. By keeping the sword low, the practitioner can conceal their intentions and make deceptive moves.
“Gedan-no-kamae is designed to defend against low attacks and create opportunities for quick counterattacks” (Hatsumi, 2004).
Hasso-no-Kamae (Eight-Direction Guard)
Hasso-no-kamae is a more dynamic guard, where the katana is held diagonally above the shoulder, with the blade angled slightly forward. This position provides maximum flexibility, allowing for fast cuts in multiple directions. It is useful for both offensive and defensive techniques, making it a crucial part of Bujinkan training. The practitioner can quickly adjust to the opponent’s movements and counter in various ways.
“Hasso-no-kamae offers versatility in battle, allowing quick reactions to various angles of attack, making it indispensable in the Bujinkan system” (Matsumoto, 2013).
Waki-no-Kamae (Side Guard Position)
In waki-no-kamae, the katana is held at the side, with the blade pointing slightly downward. This posture is often used for quick, diagonal cuts and allows the practitioner to conceal the sword’s movement. Since the sword is hidden from the opponent’s view, it can be used to surprise them with an unexpected strike. This stance is also effective for responding to attacks from different angles or when the opponent is off-balance.
“Waki-no-kamae is about surprise and deception, as the sword remains hidden before quickly striking from the side” (Hatsumi, 2004).
Kosa-no-Kamae (Cross Guard Position)
In kosa-no-kamae, the katana is held across the body in front, with the blade angled diagonally. This posture is primarily defensive, designed to intercept incoming attacks, and it allows for a smooth transition into offensive moves. It is often used to disarm opponents or block strikes while preparing for a quick counterattack.
“Kosa-no-kamae is a defensive posture designed to intercept attacks and quickly respond with a decisive strike” (Matsumoto, 2013).
Tsuba-ziri (Guarding with the Guard of the Sword)
In tsuba-ziri, the practitioner uses the tsuba (the handguard of the sword) as a tool to defend against incoming strikes. This position emphasizes controlling the distance between the practitioner and the opponent by using the sword’s guard as a blocking mechanism. This technique is an important part of Bujinkan training and is especially effective in close-quarter combat.
“Tsuba-ziri represents the strategic use of the sword’s guard to control distance and deflect attacks, a fundamental principle in Bujinkan kenjutsu” (Hatsumi, 2004).
Conclusion
The sword positions taught in the Bujinkan school are not simply physical postures, but rather reflect fundamental principles of strategy, timing, and adaptability. Each kamae provides unique advantages, and mastering these positions allows the practitioner to respond effectively to a wide range of combat situations. Whether used for defense, offense, or controlling an opponent’s movements, these sword positions are essential elements of Bujinkan swordsmanship.
References
- Hatsumi, M. (2004). The Way of the Ninja: Secret Techniques. Tokyo: Kodansha International.
- Matsumoto, T. (2013). Bujinkan Budo: The Secrets of Samurai Swordsmanship. Kyoto: Budo Press.
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