Is kobudo a martial art?

Kobudō (古武道, Old martial arts) is a collective term for Japanese traditional techniques for the use of armour, blades, firearms, and techniques related to combat and horse riding. The kanji 古流武術 (Old-school martial arts) and 古武術 (old martial arts) are other ways of writing it.

Does kobudo have a belt system?

Kodokan Martial Arts Belt Systems: It is measured by examination at set intervals. Below the black belts are Kyu grades, meaning level, and normally starts at white belt, 9th Kyu (KuKyu). Each style will have their own coloured belts to recognise this, but may differ from school to school.

What style is Okinawa karate?

Uechi-ryu
Uechi-ryu. Uechi-ryu (上地流) is a traditional style of Okinawan karate. Uechi-ryu means “Style of Uechi”. Originally called Pangai-noon, which translates to English as “half-hard, half-soft”, the style was renamed Uechi-ryu after the founder of the style, Kanbun Uechi (1877-1948).

Who invented kobudo?

The actual origin of Kobudo is very difficult to pinpoint. According to history, perhaps the two most documented individuals traced are Sakagawa Kanga (1733-1815) and Chatan Yara (1740-1812). It is believed that Sakagawa had learned much of his martial arts from China, much like his contemporary Chatan Yara.

How long does it take to get a black belt in kobudo?

Minimum training times between each Kyu grading examination are 6 months up to 1st Kyu and then the minimum period to Shodan (Black Belt) is normally 12 months.

What weapons are in kobudo?

The five principle weapons of Okinawa Kobudo include the Bo, Sai, Nunchaku, Kama and Tonfa. Some other lesser known weapons are Ekku, Nitan Bo, Surichin, Tekko and Tenbei. Incidentally, in mainland Japan, kobudo refers to the weapons of the Japanese samurai.

How long does it take to get a black belt in Kobudo?

Why did Okinawa ban weapons?

In 1429, a decree was issued when the three kingdoms of Okinawa were united under King Sho Hashi, beginning the first Sho Dynasty. All weapons were banned so as not to provoke disunity. In 1470, the new Sho Dynasty came into power, again prohibiting the carrying of weapons.