Welcome to JSA
The Bushido Cultivation Research Group (Bushido Group) is dedicated to promoting and preserving the rich heritage of Japanese Sword Arts (JSA). Our mission is twofold: to disseminate the knowledge and practice of JSA worldwide and to integrate traditional Japanese Swordsmanship with Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). By bridging these disciplines, we aim to build a global community united in martial excellence, historical insight, and personal growth.
With a deep reverence for the traditions and philosophies that underpin Japanese Sword Arts, we strive to preserve and honor the lineage of these ancient martial disciplines. Our organization embraces the wisdom of past masters and seeks to pass down their teachings to future generations, ensuring that the essence and integrity of JSA remain intact.
Embracing cross-cultural exchange, the Bushido Group fosters dialogue and collaboration between JSA practitioners and the HEMA community. Our partnership with SoCal Swords, a Southern California HEMA school, exemplifies this commitment: kenjutsu classes are taught within their club, facilitating direct integration between traditions.
The Bushido Group recognizes the evolving nature of martial arts training and acknowledges the value of practical applications and free-form sparring in enhancing the effectiveness of techniques. We are committed to incorporating these elements into the training of kenjutsu and iaijutsu, moving beyond choreographed forms and theory-based practice to develop a more realistic and well-rounded approach similar to that embraced by HEMA. This approach allows practitioners to apply their skills in dynamic situations, preparing them for a variety of encounters from competitions to actual combat scenarios.
Japanese Sword Arts are not just about physical technique; they embody a philosophy of discipline, respect, and self-improvement. We encourage practitioners to embrace this spirit in their training and lives by cultivating the mind, body, and spirit through its study. Join us as we unite practitioners across the globe, celebrate the legacy of the Japanese sword, and forge a path towards excellence in martial arts and personal growth!