Philosophically, "Tsuki no Kokoro" (mind/spirit like the moon) is understood to mean a calm, clear mind not focused on any one thing - yet at the same time clearly aware of everthing taking place in the enviornment.

For hundreds of years there has been a student / instructor relationship that has existed in which arts such as these have been studied - sometimes at great personal loss and pain, and passed down physically and verbally to the next generation of students.

It takes years of ongoing study to deeply understand any art or craft. This is especially true of the martial arts, but the rewards can be extraordinary.

Dojo Name and History

The Tsuki Kage dojo was founded September 8th, 1997 at Loyola Marymount University. A log of dojo activities is maintained by the dojo Hisho (Secretary / Historian) in hopes of preserving a record of what will hopefully be a long and prosperous endeavor. It is interesting to note that evening practice at LMU would often occur outside on the grass, illuminated only by the moonlight. This is apparently the manner in which some well known masters like Otake Risuke (Chief Instructor, Tenshinsho-den Katori Shinto-ryu) learned kenjutsu.

"Kage-ryu Illustrated Catalog of Sword Methods" Ancient scroll containing illustrations of monkeys demonstrating sword techniques, including possibly a "muto-dori" (empty hand defense) method in the bottom right corner

The name "Tsuki Kage" can be seen used in the technical curriculums of many koryu (classical traditions), referring to concepts such as vital point attacks in jujutsu, as well as postures, techniques and paired sparring forms found in various forms of kenjutsu. The kanji we use for "tsuki" translates as "moon", while "kage" translates as "shadow". The moon is considered a symbol of one's "enlightened true nature" in Buddhism. The term "tsuki" can also mean "thrust"; one of two basic attacks used in swordsmanship (cutting and thrusting) - a method which we have found is often neglected in sword training. Additionally, the "(Aisu) Kage-ryu" (different kanji) was one of the founding martial traditions during the feudal period of Japan, known especially for their skills in swordsmanship and proper discipline of the mind and spirit while under combative stress.

Some arts apply the principle of "moon shadow" functionally as a technique of applying a near simultaneous counter attack by "shadowing" the same technique as that of the attacker. The defender would become victorious either by using superior timing or superior placement and alignment to their opponent.

Obata Toshishiro Sensei, founder of Shinkendo, expresses his idea of tsuki kage as follows: "Sunlight shone against a tree produces a strong shadow, whereas moonlight shone against the same tree produces a far more subtle and deceptive shadow". Obata Kaiso relates this principle to one of his own sword techniques, which involves luring the opponent into an overhead cut from close quarters and then immediately wrapping around the attack with perfect timing to perform a counter-cut/control.

These are some of the meanings that influenced the choice of name and specific philosophy of this dojo. It is our commitment to provide an atmosphere that will be conducive to experiencing Budo to its fullest.

Dojo Instructional Philosophy

The goal of this dojo is:

• To strive for personal and professional excellence through a shugyo approach to training (austere, or severe training of body, mind and spirit).

• Disseminate traditional aspects of Japanese culture, and faithfully pass on techniques, philosophy and spirit of the arts in a continuing line of direct transmission.

Requirements for Prospective Students

There are only three fundamental requirements for acceptance as a student:

• Prospective students must be of acceptable character and motivation.

• Prospective students must follow the instructors direction during class implicitly and that of the Dojo training requirements listed below (primarily for reasons of safety).

• Prospective students must be sincere in their desire to learn, and be willing to train hard and consistently to achieve advancement.

Requirements for Dojo Membership

Following is a comprehensive list of guidelines and rules that reflect our dojo policies:

• All students must follow the Dojo rules, and that of of the Instructors and assistants. Failure to do so will in most cases result in termination of membership.

• Students are advised to have a medical checkup by a physician and have the permission of the physician to participate in training.

• Students MUST notify the Instructor of any physical problems, limitations or injuries at any and all times during their membership.

• Students should be on time (or early, preferably) to warm up and assist with Soji (cleaning).

• Students must be tidy, maintain a clean unwrinkled uniform, keep nails trimmed and maintain acceptable overall bodily hygiene and appearance. Students with long hair should either tie it back or keep it braided.

• The dojo and/ or its Instructors will not be held responsible for loss of or damage to personal belongings.

• Students should act with common sense, courtesy and respect during class at all times.

• Please notify an Instructor in advance before bringing visitors or observers to the dojo. Current members should consider themselves responsible for those they bring in or recommend for membership.

• Students must inform an Instructor and receive permission before training at any other dojo.

• Students are not permitted to participate in Japanese swordsmanship seminars or competitions with out specific permission.

• Any external martial art group/organization/federation affiliations or associations, must be cleared with an Instructor in advance.

• Our dojo has specific weapons we use, that are authorized for use at specific stages of development. As such, any training equipment intended for use in our arts (in class or otherwise), including specifically ALL training / live weapons, must be authorized by the Head Instructor prior to purchases.

"TSUKI KAGE" small wooden signboard hanging
on a tree at Nagoya castle