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Learn the Higo Ko-ryu of Naginata style of fighting samurai

Kumamoto Prefecture, Japanby Attractive JAPAN

  • 1.5 hours
  • Up to 6 travelers
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
  • Guide: Japanese, English

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Overview

Characterized by a one-sword deathblow, the Higo old-style naginata(Long Sword), which uses weapons as long as 8 shaku (approximately 2.4m) was developed in Kumamoto before the mid-1700s. Since the end of the Meiji era when there were no male instructors, female instructors have preserved the tradition, and currently, Ms. Hirata is the 15th head of the school. When using a heavy and long weapon that is eight shaku (about 2.4m), there are few movements and moves, the form is simple, and although there is no ""flashy"" movement, training in body handling and foot handling is required to move quickly. This is a 90-minute plan where you can experience the authentic Higo old-style naginata directly from Ms. Hirata, the head of the family. Experience the Higo Koryu style straight from the female master who will pass it on to the next generation. Learn the spirit of the samurai through a samurai swordsmanship experience.

What's included

  • Uniform
  • Hakama (a type of divided shirt for men)

    Itinerary

    [10:00] [Change of clothes] Change into clothes that are easy to move in. *No need for those who have already changed. [10:20] [Basics] Learn from the 15th head of the school about the basics such as etiquette, behavior, and sliding feet, and put them into practice. [10:50] [Dance] Appreciate the performance of Higo Koryu Naginata. [11:00] [Swordsmanship experience] Learn swordsmanship with a long sword of about 2.4m. [11:20] [Photography/change of clothes] Take a commemorative photo at the dojo. Learn Kumamoto's original style of naginata (a type of Japanese pole weapon) from the 16th head of the Higo Koryu school. Your lesson will focus on not only how to use the naginata, but also on how to use and balance your body, which are important skills that are applicable to other martial arts and sports. Higo Koryu is focused on defeating an enemy in a single blow, resulting in a style of fighting that is less flashy than other schools but closer to the fundamentals of budo. This lesson is a must for those with previous martial arts experience as it offers a rare insight into a very unique style of fighting.

    Meeting and pickup

    After entering through the front entrance of Nagomi-Machi Central Community Center and changing into slippers, the experience venue will be on your left. Please gather near the long sofas in front of the Hall. 15 minutes by car from “Tamana” Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line

    End point

    After entering through the front entrance of Nagomi-Machi Central Community Center and changing into slippers, the experience venue will be on your left. Please gather near the long sofas in front of the Hall. 15 minutes by car from “Tamana” Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line

    Good to know

    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Please prepare clothes that are easy to move in

    Cancellation policy

    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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    from $107per person

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