Shibata-den Preservation Society
本覚克己流和 ／ 柴田伝・保存会
Center: The Late Master Yasusuke Otsu, 11th Generation of Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara
Left: The late Kosaku Shibata (3rd disciple), entrusted to carry on the legacy
Right: Presumed to be the 2nd disciple / Photo by: Presumed to be the 1st disciple
2025 is drawing to a close. It has been an exceptionally intense year. Since around March or April, I have been active every single day regarding Hongaku Kokki-ryu. I feel a strong urgency to act before the fragments of information disappear forever.
I was able to connect with an author specializing in Tsugaru martial arts via telephone. Their powerful energy boosted my spirits and blew away my accumulated fatigue.
Recently, I visited the graves of Soeda Gizaemon Sadatoshi and Tsugaru Genba Masatomo. Thanks to the temple names mentioned in research papers, they were easy to find, and the priest kindly guided me. I felt an indescribable, solemn atmosphere. I also made some surprising personal discoveries.
Grave of Soeda Gizaemon Sadatoshi
Grave of Tsugaru Genba Masatomo
Investigating small fragments of Hongaku Kokki-ryu information whenever I have time. I believe that right now is the last chance, as information is still scattered across Tsugaru.
I am working on the investigation almost every day until after midnight. Doing this alone is starting to push my mental and physical limits. I might be feeling rushed because time is limited. Since I will be busy for several months next year with professional exams, I have been pushing myself too hard. I am starting to rethink my approach before I burn out.
In 1963 (Showa 38), we became a topic of interest by forming one of the first "Sports Boy Scouts" (including boys and girls) in the country. There was a live appearance on RAB (Aomori Broadcasting) in 1965. It seems both men and women practiced at the time, showing how deeply rooted it was in the Tsugaru region.
At the Former Ishidoya Residence near the Horikoshi Castle ruins, we performed "Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara, Hayashizaki Shinmuso-ryu Iai, and Bokuden-ryu" at the request of the Hirosaki City Board of Education. The Yawara demonstration included students and was held in a warm, communal atmosphere.
On Sunday, Sept 14, we held demonstrations of "Bokuden-ryu, Hayashizaki Shinmuso-ryu Iai, and Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara" at the Sasamori Residence (National Important Cultural Property). High school and university students also participated in the Yawara demonstration.
I was diagnosed with a triangular fibrocartilage complex tear—proof of my hard work. I'm currently in the middle of upgrading 7 out of 9 PCs to Windows 11. It's frustrating not being able to move forward faster.
I recently participated in Bokuden-ryu training, which is said to share some roots with Hongaku Kokki-ryu. The practice involved closing the distance with a short sword against a long sword. I felt the "Ma-ai" (distancing) vividly. This experience confirmed that my crisis-detection skills, which I thought had faded since my father's death, are still within me.
I am continuing solo practice within reasonable limits, even during the Neputa and Obon festivals. I am experiencing interesting moments where I suddenly recall the fine details of forgotten techniques.
Hirosaki Neputa Period — I went to see the Neputa parade where Shubukando participated. Meanwhile, I am busy with verification practice, photographing old documents, and organizing materials.
On July 20th, I attended the commemorative workshop for "Exploration of Hongaku Kokki-ryu (Vol. 1)" by Master Masamichi Kono of Shinfukan Bugei Institute at Higashin Arena, Sumida, Tokyo. It was an essential experience for those with the right to attend.
Discovered Master Otsu's "License and Inka-kaku" (Certification of Mastery). This has helped clarify several previously unknown points as hypotheses.
June 28–29: Master Masamichi Kono visited Shubukando for a Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara research workshop. I received many profound insights.
The Hirosaki Clan had a ninja group called "Hayamichi-no-mono" for about 200 years. In this NHK World-Japan episode, the history and techniques of "Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara," practiced by these ninjas, are demonstrated by myself, Mr. Oyama of Shubukando, and Shubukando volunteers.
※This is an international English-language program.
With the cooperation of many people, I made a brief appearance in the "Monthly Hiden November 2025 Issue: Approaching the Secrets of Budo & Bujutsu."
I am the eldest son of the late Kosaku Shibata, who was entrusted with the future of the style by the 11th generation master, Yasusuke Otsu. While I grew up hearing about the hidden aspects of the lineage and experiencing its mysterious techniques, I refrained from public activity for many years. This was primarily because I feared whether I was worthy of handling the weight of the "Hiden" (secret transmissions) and the deep confidentiality of the style.
By nature, I prefer a quiet life and believed that the history of the style should eventually be left to the flow of time. However, in recent years, I have witnessed information different from historical facts spreading on the internet. In particular, I feel a strong sense of crisis regarding misunderstandings about Master Otsu and the current situation where the style is spoken of as being "lost" due to the passing of those involved.
If things continue this way, the truth will remain unknown, and only incorrect information will remain as history. I felt an urgency that once I pass away, no one will be left who heard the direct accounts of my father. With the support of Mr. Oyama from Shubukando and other mysterious coincidences, I felt as if my father was pushing me to take this step.
※Gratitude and Daily Exploration
This activity cannot proceed with my strength alone. I sincerely thank everyone who provided materials and encouragement, and especially my wife, who watches over me with patience.
Even while working, eating, or shopping, I find myself verifying body movements. My wife sees through me and says, "You're doing it again," but I believe my father was the same—exploring this path 24/7. That is why he could answer any question instantly. That is the path my father walked — and the back I now strive to follow.
This activity began with a wish to carve into history the things passed down by our ancestors in a clear form. The collection and organization of information covers diverse areas such as "History, Martial Techniques, Manuscripts, Testimonies, Photos, Videos, and Audio" related to Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara.
For me, this activity means:
(1) Respect for Ancestors: Correcting misunderstandings about Master Otsu and showing respect to the founders.
(2) Responsibility to the Next Generation: Preparing the path as much as I can and passing the baton cleanly.
(3) Filial Piety: Giving shape to the dream (prosperity of the style) that my father could not fully realize.
We refrain from disclosing the specific "Jutsuri" (details of techniques) of Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara. Additionally, we will not publicly display the "Kyojo" (licenses) received by my father. In the digital age, this is to prevent easy reproduction or misuse and to protect the legitimacy of the style. (The licenses are stored securely in a trusted location.)
I am very heartened by those who explore Hongaku Kokki-ryu Yawara through old documents. Thank you sincerely. In your earnest exploration, I would be grateful if you could keep in your heart a small measure of respect for the successive masters who built and protected this style. I believe that feeling serves as a milestone leading to the spirit behind the techniques.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
We ask for your understanding and cooperation. We are looking for:
