Time-honoured tradition and clear new directions: From 1 October 2026, the foundations of Tatsu-Ryu-Bushido will be further developed in a targeted manner. Four training profiles, a more clearly structured system of ranks and graduations, and a reorganised sequence of weapons will enable even more personalised and transparent training in future. Tatsu-Ryu-Bushido will remain a Japanese-influenced martial art based on principles. The tried-and-tested values, fundamentals and technical principles will be retained. The main innovation is the structure that allows different people to follow their own personal path within a shared system. The image shows Himeji Castle in Japan from a striking perspective along the historic stone walls. The white castle buildings, with their traditional dark tiled roofs, are framed by trees. The architecture and the imposing natural stone walls powerfully convey the historic character of the complex. Himeji Castle has been a feature of the Tatsu-Ryu-Bushido design for many years.
Four training profiles based on a common foundation
People train with different backgrounds and goals. The four training profiles take these differences into account without dividing Tatsu-Ryu Bushido into separate martial arts.
Kizzu: training tailored for children
Kizzu offers children an age-appropriate introduction to Tatsu-Ryu Bushido. The focus is on movement, coordination, concentration, self-confidence and treating one another with respect. A dedicated, easy-to-understand belt system for children makes progress visible and motivates them, without subjecting them to unnecessary exam pressure at an early stage.
Jitsugi for technical practice
Jitsugi forms the technical core of the training. Techniques, movement sequences, forms and bunkai are systematically taught, practised and developed further. This programme is aimed at anyone wishing to deepen their technical skills on a clear and comprehensible basis.
Oyo for practical application
Oyo applies the principles and techniques learnt to realistic situations. The focus is on applicability, adaptability and acting appropriately under changing conditions. The regular roll-out of this training profile will begin in April 2027 at the earliest. The pending binding regulations, as well as the training and examination content, will be incorporated into the relevant guidelines and published in good time before the official launch.
Yūwa for harmonised practice
Yūwa enables training that is adapted to age, health and individual physical capabilities. The principles underlying movements and techniques remain intact, but their intensity and execution can be modified. This ensures that older people in particular, or those with physical limitations, have safe and long-term access to Tatsu-Ryu Bushido.
Further development of the belt and title system
The belt and title system will also be structured more clearly. Belt grades will continue to indicate an individual’s level of development. Titles, on the other hand, will increasingly denote specific tasks, qualifications and responsibilities within the organisation. This will make the distinctions between the roles of Joshu, Shidoin, Sensei, Shihan and Sōke more transparent. Achievements already made and existing belt grades will be respected. This development is not intended to disadvantage existing pupils. Adapted systems, tailored to the respective requirements and objectives, apply to children and the Yūwa training programme.
A pedagogically reorganised sequence of weapons
Traditional weapons remain a central component of Tatsu-Ryu-Bushido. However, their sequence within the training programme is being restructured. In future, the path will be more strongly oriented towards a methodologically coherent progression: from fundamental principles of movement and longer distances through to more complex applications, shorter weapons and specialised situations. The weapons are not merely regarded as individual disciplines; they convey overarching principles such as distance, timing, control, adaptation and responsible action.
Development without breaking with tradition
The changes do not replace the existing path. Rather, they organise, clarify and expand upon it. The aim is a system that preserves the origins and values of Tatsu-Ryu Bushido whilst, at the same time, providing a suitable approach for a diverse range of people. Children, adults, experienced budoka, older people and those with specific physical conditions will continue to train on a common foundation. The changes will be introduced gradually from 1 October 2026. Supplementary training materials, overviews and examination guidelines will be published as they are implemented.
The full video and the new e-books
A detailed video presentation of the changes explains the four training profiles, the revised belt and title system, and the new order of weapons.
To ensure that even young pupils can easily understand the changes, the content has also been adapted in a child-friendly format in a dedicated Kizzu e-book and an accompanying video. The full video, the child-friendly Kizzu version and the accompanying e-books are available on our website:
www.tatsu-ryu-bushido.com/ebook/
The tradition remains. The structure continues to evolve. The journey continues.
Mombasa
