Bujinkan
The Bujinkan ”( Bu jin kan ) , pronounced approximately: “boo jen con”, meaning: “warrior spirit training hall” consists of a documented system of 9 unique styles of martial arts, including the legendary Togakure Ryu Ninjutsu, oldest of the 9 Ryu documenting back 34 generations to the current international leader, 34th generation Soke, Masaaki Hatsumi of Japan. In this, I (Rick Spangler) am a personal student of his.
Ranking
Starting at a white belt then your first promotion would be to 9th Kyu working your way to 1st Kyu. Then on to the Dan ranks (pronounced don), black belt ranks, which you receive from Japan starting at 1st-degree black belt (1st Dan) or known as Shodan. Black Belt ranks can only be awarded to those 18 years and older* (special exceptions are made). The Official Illinois Bujinkan Dojo Black Belt Shinobi Council will deal with all Major concerns and issues. *Kid’s classes are completely separate from this. After they work thought all the colored belts, they can attain the rank of Jr. Black Belt even at a young age.
All traditional rankings use the patch & star system. Your patch and the number of stars over the patch denotes one’s rank. Starting out you will progress through the “Kyu” ranks of which there are 9 levels. Once you have achieved the highest Kyu ran (1st Kyu) you are eligible for black belt ranking.
Uniform
In entering the Kyu ranks you wear on your Uniform (gi) a Kyu patch on the front of your gi which we receive from Japan. Dan ranks have 3 distinct patches. One patch for Dan ranks 1 to 4, another patch for ranks 5 – 9 and a final patch for ranks 10 – 15.
Your Hiken Dojo (local dojo) patch is to be on your left shoulder, just below the sleeve seam.
For adult training, at a minimum you will need:
- 3-foot stick (hanbo) (get a dowel rod at a hardware store)
- Obtain within the first month or so:
- Black Uniform (or black pants & black T-shirt), Price varies
- wooden sword (bokken)
- wooden knife (tanto)
- 6 ft. staff (bo)