Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

The QUT Ninjutsu is broken up into 10 levels, from 9th Kyuu (九級) [Green belt] to Shodan (初 段) [Black belt]. Training beyond Shodan is addressed on an individual basis. All members start as Mukyuu (無級) [White Belt]. Each Kyuu level has a set of methods and techniques that a member must be competent in, before they can move on to the next level.

A method is called jutsu (術), for example shurikenjutsu (手裏剣術) are methods of using hidden hand blades. Within a jutsu (術) are kata (型), jutsu (術), waza (技) and kamae (構). As Japanese does not have plural suffixes for words, meaning needs to be derived from context. In the example of jutsu (術) and jutsu (術), kenjutsu (剣術) means a sword methods while shouten no jutsu (昇天の術) means technique of climbing/ascending. The の character here denotes the singular 'method'. 

Waza (技) are simple techniques with set movements. A throw for example would be a waza. Jutsu (術) are a method with variable movement, waza (技) make up jutsu (術). Deflecting a sword cut would be a (の) jutsu (術). Kata (型) are a set of jutsu (術). Koku no kata (虚空の型), a series of techniques which involve striking, kicking and throwing is a kata (型). Kamae (構) are different postures of the body. 

Each level of the curriculum may contain waza, jutsu, kata and kamae. 

Mukyuu - 無級

Mukyuu focuses on Soujutsu (running techniques), Hokoujutsu (walking techniques), Juunan Taisou (stretching exercises), Taisou Undou (calisthenics), Shisokujyuu Undou (crawling exercises), Taihenjutsu (break falling & rolling) and Hijutsu(leaping techniques). 

To graduate from Mukyuu a member is expected to be able to evade and escape the enemy to survive, by day or by night, regardless of season, weather or terrain. 

Only competence in these techniques and methods is required, members do not need to memorise the names or the order of the techniques.

Soujutsu - 走術

Soujutsu are methods of running. Shinobi, Samurai and Sohei had different styles of running depending on equipment, terrain or weather.

Teitaisou no jutsu - 停滞走の術 - Forward running technique
Kinkousou no jutsu - 均衡走の術 - Balanced running technique
Kougun no jutsu - 行軍の術 - Technique for marching with heavy equipment
Tozanri no jutsu - 登山林の術 - Technique for running over rough terrain
Shoten no jutsu - 昇天の術 - Technique for running up vertical surfaces

Hokoujutsu - 歩行術

Hokoujutsu are methods of walking. This includes walking silently, walking in the dark or over rough terrain. 

Soushin Sousoku Hou - 早心早速法 - Methods of moving quickly

Muon no Hou - 無音の法 - Silent method

Hyoukou Hokou - 氷土歩行 - Walking on slick surfaces
Sokushin Sokuhou - 足心側方 - Walking sideways

Juunan Taisou - 柔軟体操

Stretching exercises for the body.

Ashi yubi to ashi kubi no undou - 足指と足首の運動 - Toe and ankle exercises
Ashi soko awaze zenkutsu - 足底合わせ前屈 - Soles together forward bend
Ashi hiroge zenkutsu - 足広げ前屈 - Feet spread in front and forward bend
Ashi narabe zenkutsu - 足並べ前屈 - Legs parallel forward bend
Ashi age koukutsu - 足上げ後屈 - legs raised back bend
Sesuji nobashi - 背筋伸ばし - stretching the spine
Koukutsu - 後屈 - back bend
Shuushi kata mawashi - 終始肩廻し - beginning to end shoulder rotation
Hiza koshi no kushin - 膝腰の苦心 - straining the knees and hips
Teashi no furi mawashi - 手足の振り廻し - hands and feet swinging rotation

Learn more about Juunan Taisou here.

Taisou Undou - 体操運動

Taisou Undou are calisthenic exercises to strengthen and condition the body for training.

Udeta te fuse - 腕立て伏せ - Push-up 
Jyoutaiokoshi - 上体起こし - Sit-up
Hashiita - 橋板 - Plank
Kataiokoshi - 下体起こし - Squat
Kensui - 懸垂 - Pull-up

Shisokujyuu Undou - 四足獣運動

Shisokujyou Undou is quadruped movement that imitates the characteristics of a variety of animals. This develops strength, balance and aligns the musculature for more efficient bipedal motion.

Saruaruki - 猿歩 - A shallow monkey gallop.
Kumaaruki - 熊歩 - A shallow bear crawl.
Ookamiaruki - 狼歩 - A shallow wolf gait.
Nekoaruki - 猫歩 - A shallow cat walk.
Usagiaruki - 兎歩 - A deep rabbit hop.
Tokagearuki - 蜥蜴歩 - A deep lizard crawl.
Sanshouuoaruki - 山椒魚歩 - A deep salamander crawl.
Hikigaeruaruki - 蟇蛙歩 - A deep toad hop.
Kaniaruki - 蟹歩 - A deep crab walk.

Taihenjutsu - 体変術

Taihenjutsu are the body receiving methods of martial arts techniques and ukemi gata are the break falling techniques themselves. Ukemi is part of taihenjutsu and it is critical to martial arts training, safety and avoiding injury.

These skills are one of the first things that are taught at QUT Ninjutsu.

(These techniques all have a migi - 右 - right and hidari - 左 - left version)

Mae Ukemi - 前受身 - Forward break fall
Zenpou Ukemi Ryoute Hizamazuki - 前方受両手身跪 - Forward break fall from kneeling with two hands
Zenpou Ukemi Katate Hizamazuki - 前方受身片手跪 - Forward break fall from kneeling with one hand
Zenpou Ukemi Ryoute Tachi - 前方受身両手立 - Forward break fall from standing with two hands
Zenpou Ukemi Katate Tachi - 前方受身片手立 - Forward break fall from standing with one hand

Ushiro Ukemi - 後受身 - Backward break fall
Kouhou Ukemi Ryoute Suwari - 後方受身両手座 - Backward break fall from sitting with two hands
Kouhou Ukemi Ryoute Jagami - 後方受身両手躑 - Backward break fall from squatting with two hands
Kouhou Ukemi Mute Jagami - 後方受身無手躑 - Backward break fall from squatting with no hands
Kouhou Ukemi Mute Tachi - 後方受身無手立 - Backward break fall from standing with no hands

Yoko Ukemi - 横受身 - Sideways break fall
Sokuhou Nagare Hizamazuki - 側方流跪 - Sideways flow from kneeling
Sokuhou Nagare Jagami - 側方流躑 - Sideways flow from squatting
Sokuhou Nagare Tachi - 側方流立 - Sideways flow from standing
Sokuhou Nagare Gaeshi - 側方流返 - Sideways flow and roll

Mae Gaeshi - 前返 - Forward rolling
Zenpou Kaiten Ryoute - 前方廻転両手 - Forward roll with two hands
Zenpou Kaiten Katate - 前方廻転片手 - Forward roll with one hand
Zenpou Kaiten Mute - 前方廻転無手 - Forward roll with no hands
Zenpou Kaiten Hichou - 前方廻転飛鳥 - Leaping forward roll

Ushiro Gaeshi - 後返 - Backward rolling
Kouhou Kaiten Ryoute - 後方回転両手 - Backward roll with two hands
Kouhou Kaiten Katate - 後方回転片手 - Backward roll with one hand
Kouhou Kaiten Mute - 後方回転無手 - Backward roll with no hands
Kouhou Kaiten Hichou - 後方回転飛鳥 - Leaping backward roll

Yoko Gaeshi - 横返 - Sideways rolling
Sokuhou Kaiten Ryoute - 側方廻転両手 - Sideways roll with two hands
Sokuhou Kaiten Katate - 側方廻転片手 - Sideways roll with one hand
Sokuhou Kaiten Mute - 側方廻転無手 - Sideways roll with no hands
Sokuhou Kaiten Hichou - 側方廻転飛鳥 - Leaping sideways roll

Sokuten - 側転 - Cartwheel
Sokuten Ryoute - 側転両手 - Two handed cartwheel
Sokuten Katate - 側転片手 - One handed cartwheel
Sokuten Hichou - 側転飛鳥 - Leaping cartwheel
Sokuten Mute - 側転無手 - Aerial cartwheel (no hands)

In the following video you can see examples of taihenjutsu and ukemi.

 

Taihenjutsu from Honbu.

Hijutsu - 飛術

Hijutsu are leaping methods. Rapid mobility is very important both for combat and survival applications. Leaping also strengthens the legs, which generate power and movement for martial arts techniques.

Shihou Tenchi Tobi - 四方天地飛 - leaping in four directions

Shihou Jimen Tobi - 四方地面飛 - low leaping in four directions

Zenpou Jimen Tobi - 前方地面飛 - low leap forward

Sokuhou Jimen Tobi - 側方地面飛 - low leap to the side

Kouhou Jimen Tobi - 後方地面飛 - low leap backward

Shuuhou Jimen Tobi - 縦方地面飛 - low leap vertically (up or down)

Shihou Tenkai Tobi - 四方天界飛 - high leaping in four directions

Zenpou Tenchi Tobi - 前方天界飛 - high leap forward

Sokuhou Tenchi Tobi - 側方天界飛 - high leap to the side

Kouhou Tenchi Tobi - 後方天界飛 - high leap backward

Shuuhou Tenchi Tobi - 縦方天界飛 - high leap vertically

9th Kyuu - 九級

The techniques and methods of 9th kyuu are based on the Gyokko (Jade Tiger) school. It contains Kamae (Postures), Houken (Striking Methods), Daken Kihon (Basic Striking), Uke Kihon (Basic Deflection), Gyokko Ryu Sanshin no kata (basic kata) and Gyokko Kihon Happou (Fundamental Techniques).

9th kyuu also introduces the tantou (短刀) or knife as a basic weapon in Tantou Sanshin no kata and Tantou Kihon Happou.

Members can expect additional training in kenjutsu (剣術) swordsmanship and kodachijutsu (小立術) short sword techniques.

To graduate from 9th kyuu a member is expected to be able to escape or engage the enemy, to protect themselves or allies, by day or by night, regardless of season, weather or terrain. 

Only competence in these techniques and methods is required, members do not need to memorise the names or the order of the techniques.

Gyokko no Kamae - 玉虎の構

Kamae (構) are postures or biomechanical structures of the body for specific use in both unarmed and armed combat. The kamae practiced in 9th kyuu are derived from the Gyokko school.

Tachi no kamae - 立の構 (Standing Postures)

Shizen no Kamae - 自然の構 (Natural Stance): A natural resting posture with the hands comfortably at the sides of the body. The feet are parallel, pointing forward. 

Seigan no Kamae - 青眼の構 (True eye stance): The lead hand is in Kitenken pointing at the opponents eyes, while the lead foot is forward pointing at the opponent. The rear hand is in Shitouken resting in the crook of the lead arm's elbow, while the rear leg is at a right angle to the opponent. 

Ichimonji no Kamae - 一文字の構え (One character): The lead hand is in Kitenken pointing at an acute angle at the opponent, the lead foot is also pointing at an acute angle (in line with the knee). The rear hand is in Shitouken resting in the crook of the lead arm's elbow, while the rear leg is at a right angle to the opponent. 

Hicho no Kamae - 飛鳥の構 (Bird stance): The lead hand is in Kitenken pointing at an acute angle at the opponent, the lead knee is pointing at the opponent raised at a right angle, while the lead foot is lightly resting on the knee of the rear leg. The rear leg is bent slightly, the rear foot at a right angle to the opponent. 

Jumonji no Kamae - 十文字の構 (Crossed stance): The lead leg is pointing forward, slightly offset to the rear leg which is also pointing forward. The lead arm and the rear arm are brought up in an X shape, both hands in Shitoken in line with the top of the head. 

Suwari no kamae - 座の構 (Sitting postures)

Seiza - 正座 (Correct sitting posture): In this kneeling posture, both feet are tucked under the gluteus maximus and the dorsum pedis are flat on the ground. Both hands are resting lightly on the top of the legs.

Gyokko no Houken - 玉虎の宝拳

Gyokko no Houken are the fist postures of found in the Gyokko school.

Fudou Ken - 不動拳 (Immovable fist): Clenched fist, thumb resting on the index and middle fingers.

Kiten Ken - 起転拳 (Turning fist): Also known as the shutou 手刀 or knife hand, the fingers are clenched together facing forward in a cupping action with the thumb locked in on the side. 

Sanshitan Ken - 三指端拳 (Three finger fist): Same shape as Kiten Ken, except the pinky finger is tucked in touching the palm of the hand.

Shako Ken - 蝦蛄拳 (Claw fist): The hand is open in a gripping claw.

Shitou Ken - 指刀拳 (Finger sword fist): Also known as thumb fist or 拇指拳 Boshi Ken, Shitou Ken is a clenched fist with the thumb on top of the index finger which is protruding out slightly from the hand.

Sokuyaku Ken - 足躍拳 (leg leaping fist): Sokuyaku Ken is the flat of the foot. 

Daken Kihon - 打拳基本

Daken Kihon (打拳基本) are basic strikes with fist or leg utilising different Houken (宝拳).

Mae Joudan Tsuki - 前上段突「右・左」(High Forward Thrust): From Ichimonji no Kamae, step forward and extend the arm out in a thrust using Fudou Ken at shoulder height, while covering the head with Jodan Uke.

Mae Gedan Tsuki - 前下段突 「右・左」(Low Forward Thrust): From Ichimonji no Kamae, step forward and extend the arm out in a thrust using Fudou Ken at hip height, while covering the head with Jodan Uke.

Mae Joudan Keri - 前上段蹴「右・左」(High Forward Kick): Cross-step forward and prime the lead leg by bringing the knee up to the chest, then kick forward to head height before returning the lead leg to Hicho no Kamae, then placing it back on the ground.

Mae Gedan Keri - 前下段蹴「右・左」(Low Forward Kick): Cross-step forward and prime the lead leg by bringing the knee up to the chest, then kick forward to thigh height before returning the lead leg to Hicho no Kamae, then placing it back on the ground.

Mae Tsukigeri - 前突蹴 「右・左」(Thrust and kick): Striking forward with a tsuki, step with the rear leg and kick with the lead leg. 

Uke Kihon - 受基本

Uke Kihon (受基本) are basic deflections used to redirect incoming attacks. 

Joudan Uke - 上段受 (High Defence): Shift back and bring the lead arm up into an acute angle vertically facing up to head height in a circular motion.

Gedan Uke - 下段受 (Low Defence): Shift back and bring the lead arm down into an acute angle vertically facing down in a circular motion.

Gyokko Sanshin no Kata - 玉虎三心の型

Gyokko Sanshin no kata (玉虎三心の型) refers five basic kata (型) that are designed to align the body and teach proper biomechanics. Sanshin is a core foundation of Bujinkan training and should be practiced regularly.
Chi no Kata - 地の型: In its basic form, this kata begins from shizen no kamae (自然の構) and shifts directly back so that the heels are in line. Raise the arm in seigan (pointing toward the eyes of the opponent). Shifting forward, bring the rear arm up like a pendulum and step, striking beneath the throat with sanshitan ken (三指端拳).

Sui no Kata - 水の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring up the arm in Joudan Uke (上段受), then shift into the opponent to strike with Omote Shutou (表手刀) to the neck.
Ka no Kata - 火の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring up the arm in Joudan Uke (上段受), then shift into the opponent to strike with Ura Shutou (裏手刀) to the neck.
Fuu no kata - 風の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring the arm down in Gedan Uke (下段受), then shift into the opponent to strike with Boshi Ken (拇指拳) to the kinketsu (禁穴).

Kuu no kata - 空の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring the arm down in Gedan Uke (下段受) and strike to the opponents face with Metsubushi (目潰し), bring the leg up in Hichou no kamae (飛鳥の構) then kick to the gorin with Mae Geri (前蹴).

Gyokko Kihon Happou - 玉虎基本八法

Gyokko Kihon Happou are eight basic techniques that embody the movement and feeling of the Gyokko school. The Kihon Happou are the basic building blocks for all movement in the martial arts. 

Kosshi Sanpou - 骨子三法 (Three Essential Methods)

Ichimonji no Kata - 一文字の型 (First Character Form): The uke (受) strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with joudan uke. Cover the uke's joudan uke with the lead hand to uncover the amedo (neck) and strike with omote shutou.

Hichou no Kata - 飛鳥の型 (Bird Form): The uke strikes with gedan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with gedan uke. Kick to the butsumetsu while clearing the uke's arm at the same time, then shift in to strike to the uke's amedo with ura shutou.

Juumonji no Kata - 十文字の型 (Crossed Character Form): The uke strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back in juumonji no kamae and strike to the inside of the uke's arm, then shift forward striking to the butsumetsu with shitou ken following up with metsubushi to the face. Assume Hidari Juumonji no Kamae and repeat. 

Torite Gohou - 捕手五法  (Five Capturing Methods)

Hi - 一 (one): The uke grabs the lapel. Cover the grabbing hand with the rear hand lightly and shift back into ichimonji no kamae taking the uke's balance. Secure jacket underneath the lapel grab with the lead hand and detach the uke's hand by moving into ichimonji on the other side. Secure uke's hand with both hands and pull it the hip in an omote gyaku.

Fu - 二 (two): The uke grabs the lapel and strikes with joudan tsuki. Cover the grabbing hand with the rear hand lightly and while shifting back into ichimonji no kamae deflect the strike and take the uke's balance. Secure jacket underneath the lapel grab with the lead hand and detach the uke's hand by moving into ichimonji on the other side. Secure uke's hand with both hands and pull it the hip in an omote gyaku.

Mi - 三 (three): The uke grabs the lapel. Cover the grabbing hand with the lead hand lightly and shift into ichimonji no kamae. Place the rear hand on the uke's elbow and shift forward into ichimonji no kamae, securing the arm and taking the uke's balance while applying ura gyaku. Slide lead hand up the uke's arm and secure the uke's wrist. Shift back into ichimonji no kamae, while bringing the rear hand up to secure the uke's wrist in a double grip, pulling the arm to the hip applying omote gyaku. 

Yo - 四 (four): The uke grabs the elbow. Shift into ichimonji no kamae and place the lead foot on the opponents lead foot, while covering the uke's lead shoulder with your lead hand. Shift forward into ichimonji no kamae, sliding the rear arm over the uke's inner arm. Change directions and assume ichimonji no kamae toward the opponent, locking their arm. Place your rear hand into your lead hand and apply musha dori. 

I - 五 (five): The uke grabs the elbow. Shift into ichimonji no kamae locking the arm with the crook of the elbow, while placing the lead foot on the uke's foot. Shift forward into ichimonij no kamae and bring the elbow into the opponents kinketsu. Drive forward, stepping over your lead leg assuming ichimonji no kamae while throwing the uke. 

Tantou Sanshin no Kata - 短刀三心の型

Tantou Sanshin no kata (短刀三心の型) refers five basic kata (型) that are designed to teach the fundamental movements used to wield a knife (tantou). Sanshin is a core foundation of Bujinkan training and should be practiced regularly.
Chi no Kata - 地の型: In its basic form, this kata begins from shizen no kamae (自然の構) and shifts directly back so that the heels are in line, drawing the tantou from the belt with the rear hand. Raise the lead arm in seigan (pointing toward the eyes of the opponent). Shifting forward with the body, drive the tantou forward in a gedan tsuki.

Sui no Kata - 水の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring up the arm in Joudan Uke (上段受) while drawing the tantou, then shift into the opponent to place the tip of the tantou on the opponent's rear facing neck; push to cut.

Ka no Kata - 火の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring up the arm in Joudan Uke (上段受) while drawing the tantou, then shift into the opponent to place the blade of the tantou on the opponent's forwward facing neck; push to cut.

Fuu no kata - 風の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring the arm down in Gedan Uke (下段受) while drawing the tantou, then shift into the opponent to place the tip of the tantou on the opponent's kinketsu (禁穴); push to puncture.

Kuu no kata - 空の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring the arm down in Gedan Uke (下段受) while drawing the tantou then drive the blade into the opponent's face, bring the leg up in Hichou no kamae (飛鳥の構) and kick to the chest with Mae Geri (前蹴).

Tantou Kihon Happou - 短刀基本八法

Tantou Kihon Happou are eight basic techniques that embody the movement and feeling of using the tantou. The Tantou Kihon Happou are the basic building blocks for weapon techniques in the Bujinkan.

Tantou Kitte Sanpou - 短刀切三法 (Three Knife Cutting Methods)

Ichimonji no Kata - 一文字の型 (First Character Form): The uke (受) strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with joudan uke while drawing the tantou. Cover the uke's joudan uke with the lead hand to uncover the amedo (neck) and place the tantou at the amedo; move to cut.

Hichou no Kata - 飛鳥の型 (Bird Form): The uke strikes with gedan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with gedan uke while drawing the tantou. Kick to the butsumetsu while clearing the uke's arm at the same time, then shift in to to place the blade on the uke's amedo; move to cut.

Juumonji no Kata - 十文字の型 (Crossed Character Form): The uke strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back in juumonji no kamae while drawing the tantou, then strike to the inside of the uke's arm, then shift forward striking to the butsumetsu with the butt of the tantou following up with a strike to the face. Assume Hidari Juumonji no Kamae. The uke strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back in juumonji no kamae and strike to the inside of the uke's arm, then shift forward striking to the butsumetsu with shitou ken, shift forward and place the blade on the uke's amedo; push to cut.

Tantou Sashite Gohou - 刺五法  (Five Catching Methods)

Hi - 一 (one): The uke grabs the lapel. Cover the grabbing hand with the rear hand lightly and shift back covering the tantou and taking the uke's balance. Draw the tantou and cut to the butsumetsu, shift back and place the tip of the blade on the uke's amedo; push to cut while applying omote gyaku. 

Fu - 二 (two): The uke grabs the lapel and strikes with joudan tsuki. Cover the grabbing hand with the rear hand lightly and while shifting back into ichimonji no kamae deflect the strike and take the uke's balance, then cover the tantou. Draw the tantou and cut to the butsumetsu, shift back and place the tip of the blade on the uke's amedo; push to cut while applying omote gyaku. 

Mi - 三 (three): The uke grabs the lapel. Cover the grabbing hand with the lead hand lightly and shift into ichimonji no kamae while drawing the tantou. Place the tantou on the uke's elbow and shift forward into ichimonji no kamae, securing the arm and taking the uke's balance while applying ura gyaku. Bring the rear hand up to tantou transfer it to the other hand. Shift back into ichimonji no kamae, while bringing the rear hand back to secure the uke's wrist; move to cut while applying omote gyaku.

Yo - 四 (four): The uke grabs the elbow. Draw the tantou, shift into ichimonji no kamae, place the lead foot on the opponents lead foot, placing the tantou on the uke's amedo. Shift forward into ichimonji no kamae, sliding the rear arm over the uke's inner arm. Change directions and assume ichimonji no kamae toward the opponent, locking their arm. Place your rear hand into your lead hand and apply musha dori. 

I - 五 (five): The uke grabs the elbow. Shift into ichimonji no kamae locking the arm with the crook of the elbow while drawing the tantou and placing the lead foot on the uke's foot. Shift forward into ichimonij no kamae and bring the elbow into the opponents kinketsu. Drive forward, stepping over your lead leg assuming ichimonji no kamae; place the blade on the amedo and throw to cut. 

8th Kyu - 八級

The techniques and methods of 8th kyuu are based on the Kotou (Tiger Felling) school. It contains Kamae (Postures), Houken (Striking Methods), Kotou Nage Kihon (basic throws), Kotou Ryu Sanshin no kata (basic kata) and Kotou Kihon Happou  (Fundamental Techniques).

8th kyuu also introduces the Senban Shuriken (銛盤手裏剣) or four pointed star shuriken as a basic weapon in Shuriken Sanshin no kata and Shuriken Kihon Happou.

Members can also expect to train in the Teppan (鉄板) iron plate and bo-shuriken (棒手裏剣) metal darts.

To graduate from 8th kyuu a member is expected to be able to escape, engage or ambush the enemy, to protect themselves or allies, by day or by night, regardless of season, weather or terrain. 

Only competence in these techniques and methods is required, members do not need to memorise the names or the order of the techniques.

Kotou no Kamae - 虎倒の構

Kamae (構) are postures or biomechanical structures of the body for specific use in both unarmed and armed combat. The kamae practiced in 8th kyuu are derived from the Kotou school.

Tachi no kamae - 立の構 (Standing Postures)

Migi/Hidari Seigan no Kamae - 右・左青眼の構 (Right and Left True Eye Stance): The lead hand is in Kitenken pointing at the opponent's eyes, while the lead foot is forward in line with the lead hand. The rear hand is in Kitenken resting on the lead shoulder and protecting the neck.

Bobi no Kamae - 防備の構 (Defensive Stance): The lead hand is in Kitenken pointing at the opponents eyes, while the lead foot is forward pointing at the opponent. The posture is shallow. The rear hand is sitting at the hip in niouken. 

Houko no Kamae - 抱圍の構 (Encircling Stance): The lead and rear hands are in Kitenken pointing at an acute angle up, forming the a roof shape (八). The lead leg is forward and the rear leg is back at an acute angle.

Hira Ichimonji no Kamae - 平一文字の構 (Level One Character): Arms are spread parallel to the ground with hands in Kitenken. Lead leg is bent like in Hichou no Kamae and in line with the lead arm. Rear leg and foot are facing forward, knee slightly bent.

Sukimi no Kamae -  (): Arms are spread parallel to the ground with hands in Kitenken. The legs are crossed like sokushin sokuhou. 

Suwari no kamae - 座の構 (Sitting postures)

Anza - 安座 (Cross-legged sitting posture): In this sitting posture, the legs are crossed and the back is straight.

Kotou no Houken - 虎倒の宝拳

Kotou no Houken are the fist postures of found in the Kotou school.

Niou Ken - 仁王拳 (Guardian fist): Clenched fist, thumb resting on the index and middle fingers.

Koppou Ken - 骨法拳 (Bone Method fist): Clenched fist, thumb resting on top of the index finger with the thumb tip pulled back to make the thumb joint sharp.

Hagi Ken - 骭拳 (Shinbone fist): Any part of the tibia or shinbone.

Happa Ken - 八葉拳 (Open Hand fist): The hand is open, making primary contact using the base of the palm.

Shitou Ken - 指刀拳 (Finger sword fist): Also known as thumb fist or 拇指拳 Boshi Ken, Shitou Ken is a clenched fist with the thumb on top of the index finger which is protruding out slightly from the hand.

Sokugyaku Ken - 足逆拳 (toe fist): Curl the toes back and strike with the ball of the foot.

Kotou Nage Kihon - 虎倒投基本

Kotou Nage Kihon (虎倒投基本) are basic throws found in the Kotou school.

Koshi Nage - 腰投「右・左」(Hip Throw): Grab the uke's elbow and pull them forward. Wrap your other arm around their lower back, sokushin sokuhou to the side and pivot on the spot to throw.

Morote Nage - 双手投「右・左」(Two Handed Throw): Grab both of the uke's lapels. Pull the uke forward, sokushin sokuhou to the side, pivot and thrust the leg out to throw.

Seoi Nage - 背負投「右・左」(Carrying Throw): Grab the uke's wrist with your lead hand and the elbow with your rear hand. Pull the opponent forward, sokushin sokuhou to the side and twist the wrist up to lock out the arm. Bring the arm over the shoulder and throw.

Kotou Sanshin no Kata - 虎倒三心の型

Kotou Sanshin no kata (虎倒三心の型) refers five basic kata (型) that are designed to align the body and teach proper biomechanics. Sanshin is a core foundation of Bujinkan training and should be practiced regularly.

Chi no Kata - 地の型: From kotou seigan no kamae, raise the lead hand to the uke's eyes and bring the rear leg back in a straight line. Raise the rear arm up above the head and hold the hand as though holding a shuriken. Step forward with sokushin sokuhou, unfold and project the hand forward with force, so it comes level with the ground.

Sui no Kata - 水の型: From kotou seigan no kamae, shift back at an acute angle while bringing up joudan uke with the lead arm. Twist and strike with niouken to the uke's lead jakkin (thoracodorsal artery and nerve), sokushin sokuhou to the inside of the uke and kick up to the gedan with the lead leg.

Ka no Kata - 火の型: From kotou seigan no kamae, shift back at an acute angle while bringing up joudan uke with the lead arm. Sokushin sokuhou to the inside of the uke and kick up to the gedan with the lead leg, with the lead hand strike to the face with happa ken.

Fuu no kata - 風の型: From kotou seigan no kamae, shift back at an acute angle while bringing down gedan uke with the lead arm. Strike with koppo ken to the kasumi, then sokushin sokuhou to the inside of the uke and kick up to the gedan with the lead leg.

Kuu no kata - 空の型: From kotou seigan no kamae, shift back at an acute angle while bringing down gedan uke with the lead arm. Sokushin sokuhou to the inside of the uke and kick up to the gedan with the lead leg, with both hands happa ken to the head.

Kotou Kihon Happou - 虎倒基本八法

Kotou Kihon Happou are eight basic techniques that embody the movement and feeling of the Kotou school. The techniques in the Kihon Happou are the basic building blocks for all movement in the martial arts. 

Kosshi Sanpou - 骨子三法 (Three Essential Methods)

Bobi no Kata - 一防備の形  (Defensive Form): Uke starts in seigan no kamae and the tori starts in bobi no kamae. The uke (受) strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with joudan uke. Shift in to strike to the jakkin with the right fist in niouken. Sokushin sokuhou with the lead leg behind the rear leg then kick up with hagiken to the gedan.

Hira Ichimonji no Kata - 平一文字の型 (Even One Character Form): Both uke and tori start in seigan no kamae. The uke strikes with gedan uke, shift back into hira ichimonji no kamae. With the lead leg, kick up to the butsumetsu, then step through the opponents centreline to strike with koppoken to the kasumi or butsumetsu.

Houko no Kata - 抱圍の型 (Encircling Form): The uke strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with joudan uke. The uke strikes again with joudan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with joudan uke. Sokushin sokuhou with the lead leg behind the rear leg, then kick up with sokugyakuken to the gorin. Finish with happa ken to the amedo on both sides.

Torite Gohou - 捕手五法  (Five Capturing Methods)

Hi - 一 (one): The uke grabs both lapel to choke. Cover the uke's lead hand, sokushin sokuhou with the lead leg behind the rear leg then apply omote gyaku to the wrist, while at the same time striking to the uke's kasumi with koppoken.

Fu - 二 (two): The uke grabs the lapel and strikes with joudan tsuki. Deflect the strike up with an omote shutou, while at the same time placing the hand on the uke's elbow. Sokushin sokuhou with the lead leg behind the rear leg and at the same time secure the wrist with the lead arm. Turn and throw with seoi nage. 

Mi - 三 (three): The uke grabs both lapels. Shift back using sokushin sokuhou and cover the uke's lead hand with the lead hand. At the same time, kick up to the gedan with hagiken, as the uke falls forward, bring the lead leg back into sokushin sokuhou and apply ura gyaku on the wrist.

Yo - 四 (four): The uke grabs the lapel. Strike to the jakkin with niouken, then shift the rear leg around with sokushin sokuhou. Bring the lead arm over and around the uke's arm, then throw with ganseki nage.

I - 五 (five): The uke grabs the lapel. Bring the lead arm under and around then straighten to grab the uke's inner shoulder. Step through and throw the uke down.

Teppan Sanshin no Kata - 鉄板三心の型

Teppan Sanshin no kata (鉄板三心の型) refers five basic kata (型) that are designed to teach the fundamental movements used to wield a metal plate (teppan). Sanshin is a core foundation of Bujinkan training and should be practiced regularly.

Teppan (鉄板) are a gateway to learning Senban-shuriken (銛盤手裏剣) and Bo-shuriken (棒手裏剣).

Chi no Kata - 地の型: In its basic form, this kata begins from shizen no kamae (自然の構) and shifts directly back so that the heels are in line, drawing the tantou from the belt with the rear hand. Raise the lead arm in seigan (pointing toward the eyes of the opponent). Shifting forward with the body, drive the tantou forward in a gedan tsuki.

Sui no Kata - 水の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring up the arm in Joudan Uke (上段受) while drawing the tantou, then shift into the opponent to place the tip of the tantou on the opponent's rear facing neck; push to cut.

Ka no Kata - 火の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring up the arm in Joudan Uke (上段受) while drawing the tantou, then shift into the opponent to place the blade of the tantou on the opponent's forwward facing neck; push to cut.

Fuu no kata - 風の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring the arm down in Gedan Uke (下段受) while drawing the tantou, then shift into the opponent to place the tip of the tantou on the opponent's kinketsu (禁穴); push to puncture.

Kuu no kata - 空の型: This kata begins from shizen no kamae and moves away from the opponent at an acute angle off the opponents line of motion. As the body is moving back, bring the arm down in Gedan Uke (下段受) while drawing the tantou then drive the blade into the opponent's face, bring the leg up in Hichou no kamae (飛鳥の構) and kick to the chest with Mae Geri (前蹴).

Teppan Kihon Happou - 鉄板基本八法

Teppan Kihon Happou are eight basic techniques that embody the movement and feeling of using the teppan. The Teppan Kihon Happou are the basic building blocks for weapon techniques in the Bujinkan.

Teppan (鉄板) are a gateway to learning Senban-shuriken (銛盤手裏剣) and Bo-shuriken (棒手裏剣).

Teppan Kitte Sanpou - 鉄板切三法 (Three Metal Plate Cutting Methods)

Ichimonji no Kata - 一文字の型 (First Character Form): The uke (受) strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with joudan uke while drawing the tantou. Cover the uke's joudan uke with the lead hand to uncover the amedo (neck) and place the tantou at the amedo; move to cut.

Hichou no Kata - 飛鳥の型 (Bird Form): The uke strikes with gedan tsuki, shift back and receive the attack with gedan uke while drawing the tantou. Kick to the butsumetsu while clearing the uke's arm at the same time, then shift in to to place the blade on the uke's amedo; move to cut.

Juumonji no Kata - 十文字の型 (Crossed Character Form): The uke strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back in juumonji no kamae while drawing the tantou, then strike to the inside of the uke's arm, then shift forward striking to the butsumetsu with the butt of the tantou following up with a strike to the face. Assume Hidari Juumonji no Kamae. The uke strikes with joudan tsuki, shift back in juumonji no kamae and strike to the inside of the uke's arm, then shift forward striking to the butsumetsu with shitou ken, shift forward and place the blade on the uke's amedo; push to cut.

Teppan Sashite Gohou - 鉄板刺五法  (Five Catching Methods)

Hi - 一 (one): The uke grabs the lapel. Cover the grabbing hand with the rear hand lightly and shift back covering the tantou and taking the uke's balance. Draw the tantou and cut to the butsumetsu, shift back and place the tip of the blade on the uke's amedo; push to cut while applying omote gyaku. 

Fu - 二 (two): The uke grabs the lapel and strikes with joudan tsuki. Cover the grabbing hand with the rear hand lightly and while shifting back into ichimonji no kamae deflect the strike and take the uke's balance, then cover the tantou. Draw the tantou and cut to the butsumetsu, shift back and place the tip of the blade on the uke's amedo; push to cut while applying omote gyaku. 

Mi - 三 (three): The uke grabs the lapel. Cover the grabbing hand with the lead hand lightly and shift into ichimonji no kamae while drawing the tantou. Place the tantou on the uke's elbow and shift forward into ichimonji no kamae, securing the arm and taking the uke's balance while applying ura gyaku. Bring the rear hand up to tantou transfer it to the other hand. Shift back into ichimonji no kamae, while bringing the rear hand back to secure the uke's wrist; move to cut while applying omote gyaku.

Yo - 四 (four): The uke grabs the elbow. Draw the tantou, shift into ichimonji no kamae, place the lead foot on the opponents lead foot, placing the tantou on the uke's amedo. Shift forward into ichimonji no kamae, sliding the rear arm over the uke's inner arm. Change directions and assume ichimonji no kamae toward the opponent, locking their arm. Place your rear hand into your lead hand and apply musha dori. 

I - 五 (five): The uke grabs the elbow. Shift into ichimonji no kamae locking the arm with the crook of the elbow while drawing the tantou and placing the lead foot on the uke's foot. Shift forward into ichimonij no kamae and bring the elbow into the opponents kinketsu. Drive forward, stepping over your lead leg assuming ichimonji no kamae; place the blade on the amedo and throw to cut. 

7th Kyu - 七級

The techniques and methods of 7th kyuu are based on the Kukishinden (Nine Kami) school. It contains Kamae (Postures), Houken (Striking Methods), Kotou Nage Kihon (basic throws), Kotou Ryu Sanshin no kata (basic kata) and Kotou Kihon Happou  (Fundamental Techniques).

8th kyuu also introduces the Senban Shuriken (銛盤手裏剣) or four pointed star shuriken as a basic weapon in Shuriken Sanshin no kata and Shuriken Kihon Happou.

Members can also expect to train in the Teppan (鉄板) iron plate and bo-shuriken (棒手裏剣) metal darts.

To graduate from 8th kyuu a member is expected to be able to escape, engage or ambush the enemy, to protect themselves or allies, by day or by night, regardless of season, weather or terrain. 

Only competence in these techniques and methods is required, members do not need to memorise the names or the order of the techniques.

Grading in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu

The Bujinkan has nine kyū grades below the rank of black belt, starting with Mukyu (no grade/white belt) and then from Kukyu (9th kyu) to Ikkyu (1st kyu). Kyū ranks usually wear green or red belts: green for men and red for women, although there is some variety among teachers and dōjō (Female members of QUT Ninjutsu may choose green or red). There were originally 10 dan grades, as with many other martial arts using the kyū/dan ranking system, but this was changed by sōke Masaaki Hatsumi to 15 dan grades of black belt. The grades are divided into three groupings; 1st-5th dan Ten (heaven), 6th-10th dan Chi (earth), 11th-15th dan Jin (man). The last five are further divided into the five elements; Chi (earth), Sui (water), Ka (fire), Fū (wind) and Kū (void).
Since there are generally only two belt colors, the practitioner’s rank is displayed by the color of the art’s emblem, called wappen (ワッペン, from the German Wappen), which has the kanji “bu”(武) and “jin” (神) on it. There are four kinds of wappen (9th to 1st kyū, 1st to 4th dan, 5th to 9th dan, and 10th to 15th dan) sometimes augmented with up to four silver or gold stars (called hoshi) above or around the emblem, representing the individual ranks.

At 5th dan (godan), practitioners submit to a test before the sōke to establish that they are able to sense the presence of danger and evade it, considered to be a fundamental survival skill. This is called the sakki. A practitioner ranked as godan or above has the option of becoming a licenced teacher (shidōshi). Ashidōshi is entitled to open his own dōjō, and hand out ranks up to 4th dan at the premises he wishes. A practitioner ranked as 1st to 4th dan may become a licenced “assistant teacher” (shidōshi-ho), if backed by and acting under the supervision of a shidōshi 5th to 9th dan or a person who has been given 10th dan(jūdan). In the Bujinkan a 10th to 15th dan is often referred to as a shihan.

In addition to the kyū/dan ranking system, a few select senior master practitioners have earned older menkyo kaiden certificates of mastery in individual school lineages. These menkyo kaiden certificates establish that the master practitioner has learned all that there is to learn about the particular lineage. Whereas the kyū/dan ranks are often made public, those select practitioners who have earned menkyo kaiden rarely divulge their status.

10th Kyu – Mukyuu 無 級
9th Kyu – Kukyuu 九 級
8th Kyu – Hachikyuu 八 級
7th Kyu – Nanakyuu 七 級
6th Kyu – Rokukyuu 六 級
5th Kyu – Gokyuu 五 級
4th Kyu – Yonkyuu 四 級
3rd Kyu – Sankyuu 参 級
2nd Kyu – Nikyuu 弐 級
1st Kyu – Ikkyuu 一級
1st Dan – Shodan 初 段
2nd Dan – Nidan 弐 段
3rd Dan – Sandan 参 段
4th Dan – Yondan 四 段
5th Dan – Godan 五 段
6th Dan – Rokudan 六 段
7th Dan – Nanadan 七 段
8th Dan – Hachidan 八 段
9th Dan – Kyudan 九 段
10th Dan – Judan 十 段
11th Dan – Jushodan 拾 初 段
12th Dan – Junidan 拾 弐 段
13th Dan – Jusandan 拾 参 段
14th Dan – Juyondan 拾 四 段
15th Dan – Jugodan 拾 五 段

Shidoshi-Ho 士 道 師 補
Shidoshi 士 道 師
Shihan 師 範
Soke 宗 家

Grading at QUT Ninjutsu

QUT Ninjutsu Dōjō follows the guidelines set out by the Bujinkan Honbu dojo as detailed above. Members of QUT Ninjutsu Dōjō can expect grading opportunities every six months or per semester.

QUT Ninjutsu grading is in line with a four year degree. At the end of a four year training period a member of QUT Ninjutsu can achieve Shodan - 初 段 or black belt 1st dan. A new member can expect an initial grading within the first 3 months of training to Kukyu - 九級. This initial grading falls outside the 6 month grading cycle, which occurs every semester.

After this initial grading, a member can expect a grading every semester, dependent on class attendance, effort, attitude and technical ability. Because Budo Taijutsu is very wide in scope, a member can be graded for a variety of reasons.

Nearing the end of a four year period, when a member has reached Ikkyu - 一級, they prepare for a pilgrimage to Japan to receive Shodan - 初 段. A member must be Ikkyu for at least 3 months before travelling to Japan for the Shodan grading. 

A member is not restricted from taking a pilgrimage to Japan to train before reaching Ikkyu, however members need a certain amount of training and experience before doing so. 

QUT Ninjutsu members are not allowed to accept gradings from other Bujinkan instructors and must respectfully decline any offer, citing this rule. 

Members joining the QUT Ninjutsu club with existing Bujinkan rank will require a formal letter to state their intention to join QUT Ninjutsu and the reason why they left their previous instructor. 

Members joining QUT Ninjutsu with gradings in other martial arts will be looked at in a case by case basis.

Previous experience in military, law enforcement, security or sports will be taken into account when considering grading speed.