Kinjō Kaichō brought to the 2019 Kōburyū seminar four essays from the Japanese monthly magazine, “Chichi” (致知). Chichi is a Japanese magazine of “philosophical anthropology.” While the essays are written in Japanese and are heavy into Japanese thought (with some religious and cultural interpretation) they also speak to the serious student of karate and kobudō. These essays express some of Kinjō Kaichō’s beliefs and expectations.

The Four Essays

Play

A introduction to the concept of yū, meaning play, and how play relates to the study of the martial arts. 

Polish yourself

We are encouraged to work diligently our whole life to strengthen our character without self-deception. Kinjō Kaichō often uses the phrase “polishing yourself.”

Master and disciple

A discussion of the relationship between a great teacher and a student who feels awe for his teacher’s abilities and follows his teachings with humility and respect.

No ability can surpass passion

The person of great physical ability who can handle anything easily typically does not last long in the martial arts. On the other hand, a student who may be awkward at first but who devotes him or herself with determination to learn will grow steadily.