History of kyujutsu

#japanesemartialarts #kobujutsu #kyudo
Japanese Institute of Koryu Budo
koryu-budo.jp/en/
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Japanese archery, known as Kyudo (meaning "the way of the bow"), has a rich history that extends over centuries, evolving from a military necessity into a disciplined form of physical, moral, and spiritual development. Here's an overview of the history of Kyudo in English.
kyujutsuEarly Beginnings
kyujutsuYayoi period (300 BC - 300 AD)kyujutsu: The earliest evidence of archery in Japan can be traced back to the Yayoi period, where bows and arrows were used for hunting and warfare.
kyujutsuClassical and Feudal Eraskyujutsu: As Japanese society transitioned into more structured feudal systems, the bow became a crucial weapon in warfare. Archery on horseback, known as Yabusame, was developed during this time.
kyujutsuThe Samurai Era
kyujutsuSamurai dominance (12th to 19th century)kyujutsu: Archery was a fundamental martial skill for the samurai class. The Kamakura (1185-1333) and Muromachi (1336-1573) periods saw the rise of various archery styles and schools (ryuha), focusing on both mounted and foot archery. The bow's importance was not only for battle but also for samurai training, emphasizing discipline, focus, and ethical conduct.
kyujutsuSengoku period (1467-1603)kyujutsu: During this era of constant warfare, the tactical use of bows changed with the introduction of firearms. However, archery remained a critical skill for the samurai.
kyujutsuTransition to Peace and the Rise of Ceremonial Archery
kyujutsuEdo period (1603-1868)kyujutsu: As Japan entered a long period of peace under the Tokugawa shogunate, the practical military use of the bow diminished. Archery took on more of a ceremonial and competitive role, with the spiritual and philosophical aspects being emphasized. Kyudo, as it's known today, began to take shape, focusing on personal development and perfection of character through the practice of archery.
kyujutsuKyudo in Modern Times
kyujutsu20th century to presentkyujutsu: The Meiji Restoration (1868) and the subsequent modernization of Japan led to the decline of traditional martial arts, including Kyudo. However, the 20th century saw a revival of interest in Japanese martial arts, including Kyudo, both within Japan and internationally. Kyudo federations were established to preserve and promote the practice as a means of physical, moral, and spiritual development.
kyujutsuInternational spreadkyujutsu: Today, Kyudo is practiced around the world, with practitioners (kyudoka) adhering to the principles of Shin (truth), Zen (goodness), and Bi (beauty). The All Nippon Kyudo Federation (ANKF), established in 1953, and the International Kyudo Federation (IKYF), established in 2006, play significant roles in promoting Kyudo globally.
Kyudo is more than just archery; it is a path to self-improvement and enlightenment, embodying the spirit of Zen and the way of the samurai. Through the disciplined practice of Kyudo, practitioners aim to achieve a state of mushin, or "no-mindedness," allowing them to shoot not only with technical precision but with spiritual clarity.

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