Monthly Archives: November 2013

Sanseru kata ~ a bit of history and some observations

Posted on November 5, 2013 by dykiegirl

Translation: Thirty Six Hands Sanseru is also referred to as the dragon kata and focuses on fighting in all four directions. The Northern Okinawa city of Naha (where the styles Naha-te and Goju originated) gave birth to a number of … Continue reading →

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The Legend of Empress Jingu

Posted on November 1, 2013 by dykiegirl

Empress Jingu (c. AD 169-269) was consort to Emperor Chuai and served as regent of Japan from 209 when Chuai died until 269 when her son Ojin ascended. There is much mystery and legend surrounding Empress Jingu as a historical figure. … Continue reading →

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The Edo Period and the Fall of Onna Bugeisha

Posted on November 1, 2013 by dykiegirl

However, and unfortunately for the onna bugeisha, the Edo period also brought about a lowering to the status of onna bugeisha in society. This was due mostly to the influence of Neo-Confucian thought and the established marriage market of the time. As samurai’s focus … Continue reading →

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Tomoe Gozen ~ a true onna-bugeisha

Posted on November 1, 2013 by dykiegirl

A True Woman Warrior Tomoe Gozen provides one of the few examples of a true woman warrior in early to early modern Japanese history. While countless other women were at times forced to take up arms (in defence of their … Continue reading →

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