About Soke Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi

Dr. Hatsumi Sensei was born in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan on December 2, 1931. In the 1950's and 1960's, Dr. Hatsumi studied extensively with the legendary Soke Toshitsugu Takamatsu, from whom he inherited the authority and position of Soke (grandmaster) in the following nine martial traditions of Japan's feudal era:

· Togakure ryu ninpo
· Gyokko ryu koshijutsu
· Kukishin ryu happo hikenjutsu · Shinden Fudo ryu dakentaijutsu
· Koto ryu koppojutsu
· Gikan ryu koppojutsu · Takagi Yoshin ryu jutaijutsu
· Kumogakure ryu ninpo
· Gyokushin ryu ninpo

Dr. Hatsumi Sensei states simply that "The purpose of Budo Taijutsu is to live". The depth of this statement can be understood on at least two distinct levels: a) to stay alive through physical danger, and also b) to realize the sacredness of every passing moment in life, and thereby live each moment fully and appreciatively. This is the essence of training.

Now into his early 70's, Dr. Hatsumi remains a dynamic martial artist, prolific author, scholar, painter, chiropractic doctor, and teacher. Recognized by the Japanese government as a "national living treasure" of Japan's history and culture, Dr. Hatsumi Sensei continues to teach world-wide as well as at the Tokyo Budokan in Ayase and in Noda on special occasions. Soke Dr. Hatsumi Sensei lives in Japan.