Koryu

Koryu (古流) is a Japanese word that translates literally as "old school" or "old tradition". It refers to schools of martial arts that predate the Meiji restoration, a political event that precipitated Japan's modernization. While arts post dating this event (gendai budo such as judo, kendo, iaido and aikido) are valued either as sports or arts for self-improvement, the koryu are the teachings of a feudal military culture. Koryu styles often contain both armed fighting with several different weapons and unarmed techniques.

Related Topics:
Japanese - Martial arts - Meiji restoration - Gendai budo - Judo - Kendo - Iaido - Aikido - Feudal

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