The Forgotten Martial Arts of Legendary Martial Artist Sakura Koji Kazutaka

Based on various martial arts learned in China and the principles of internal martial arts from Master Wang Shujin, Sakura Koji Kazutaka combined techniques from Iaijutsu, traditional Jujutsu, and traditional Karate to create a unique system under the Dai Nippon Kobukai. This system eschewed traditional forms, focusing solely on practical, cross-method combat techniques. This video unveils the remarkable martial arts legacy left by Sakura Koji Kazutaka, presented by his direct successor, Master Toshio Okabayashi.

Featured:

• Sakura Koji Kazutaka (1913-1975)

  • Born in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture. From a young age, he was immersed in martial arts. During his youth, he traveled to China to master Chinese martial arts. Upon returning to Japan, he studied various styles of Karate and trained in Toyama-ryu Battojutsu. When Taiji master Wang Shujin visited Japan, he studied Taijiquan under him. Integrating these diverse martial arts, he founded the Dai Nippon Kobukai in Akabane, Tokyo, in 1962. Known for its rigorous and competitive sparring sessions, this dojo cultivated a practical martial arts system. Many students, including Toshio Okabayashi, were deeply influenced by his teachings.

• Toshio Okabayashi

  • Born in Hokkaido in 1949. After moving to Tokyo, he became a disciple of the legendary martial artist Sakura Koji Kazutaka. He studied Itosu-ha Shito-ryu Karate, 99-style Taijiquan, Iaido, and Yi Jin Jing. After the death of his master, he learned Ryukyu Kobujutsu, Shorin-ryu, and Shorei-ryu from Inoue Motokatsu, the first head of the Ryukyu Kobujutsu Preservation Society. Currently, as the president of the Japan Karate-Do Kenshikai, he continues to teach and promote the Sakura-style Yi Jin Jing learned from his master. He holds the titles of 7th Dan Kyoshi certified by the All Japan Karate-Do Federation, instructor at the Ryukyu Kobujutsu Preservation Society, and certified coach for competitive skill improvement by the Japan Sports Association.

Language: Japanese

Length: 55 min.

SPD-7604