Hakko Ryu Jujutsu
Hakko Ryu Jujutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art with a rich history and distinct characteristics. Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:
History and Background:

• Founder: Hakko Ryu was founded in 1941 by Okuyama Ryuho (1901–1987).
• Origins: It is a school of jujutsu descended from Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu. Okuyama Ryuho was a student of Sokaku Takeda, a prominent figure in Daito-ryu.
• Establishment: The formal founding ceremony, the Hakko-ryu Kaiso Hokokusai, took place on June 1, 1941, in Tokyo.
• Development: Okuyama Ryuho synthesized his extensive martial arts training and knowledge of traditional Japanese medicine, including shiatsu, to create Hakko Ryu.
• The effects of world war 2 caused Okuyama to relocate, and eventually he set up the Hakko ryu So Hombu Dojo, in what is now Saitama city, which is where the head quarters remains to this day.

Founder:

• Ryuho Okuyama, had a very broad martial arts background, and also deep knowledge of traditional Japanese medicine. This combination is what makes Hakko ryu so unique.

Curriculum and Technique:

•  Hakko Ryu makes extensive use of kyusho, or vital points. These points are located along the body's meridians, as understood in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine.
•  Hakko Ryu practitioners learn to apply precise pressure to these points to cause varying degrees of pain, disrupt an opponent's balance, or even render them unconscious.
•  This focus on kyusho allows for effective self-defense against larger and stronger opponents.
  

       
      Instruction in Hakko Ryu heavily relies on kata, which are prearranged sequences of movements.

•  These kata serve as a vehicle for learning and practicing the art's fundamental principles and techniques.
•  The core curriculum typically includes kata at the Shodan, Nidan, Sandan, and Yondan levels, each building upon the previous one.
• These kata are the core way in which the techniques, and principles are passed down.

 
     Waza (Techniques):
      Within the kata, practitioners learn various waza, or individual techniques, including:

•  Atemi-waza: Striking techniques targeting vital points.
• Osae-waza: Immobilization and control techniques.
•  Joint locks and throws.
•  The techniques are designed to utilize the opponents energy, and momentum, against them.
  

      Medical Integration:

• Okuyama Ryuho's background in traditional Japanese medicine is deeply ingrained in Hakko Ryu.
•  Practitioners gain an understanding of anatomy and the body's energy pathways, which enhances their ability to apply techniques effectively.
• This also leads to a more controlled application of the techniques, with the aim of control, rather than simply causing damage.

Principles and Philosophy:

• "Hakko" (Eighth Light):
• The name "Hakko" symbolizes the art's emphasis on subtle yet powerful techniques.
• Just as infrared light is invisible but potent, Hakko Ryu techniques aim to control an opponent with minimal outward force.
  

 
Humanitarian Approach:

•  While effective for self-defense, Hakko Ryu emphasizes controlling an opponent without causing unnecessary harm.
• This principle reflects the art's connection to traditional medical ethics.
• Emphasis on relaxation and centering:
• A large portion of the art focuses on the practitioners ability to remain relaxed, and centered, so that the techniques can be applied effectively.

Rank and Lineage:
Traditional System:

• Hakko Ryu maintains a traditional Japanese ranking system, with levels such as Shodan, Nidan, and so on.
•  Advancement is typically determined by the Hombu Dojo and authorized instructors. 
  

Lineage Control:

•  The Okuyama family maintains a very strong control over the art, and it's teachings.
•  This control helps to maintain the arts integrity.
  

Key Points:

• Hakko Ryu's connection to Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu gives it a lineage tracing back to older samurai traditions.
• Its integration of medical knowledge sets it apart from many other martial arts.