Welcome to AKBAN wiki, martial arts techniques database

The most comprehensive Ninjutsu techniques source. Period.

Introduction to AKBAN wiki

AKBAN wiki stands as a unique and comprehensive resource in the martial arts world, distinguishing itself through its meticulous documentation of over 7,000 techniques from authentic Japanese martial traditions. What sets AKBAN apart is its commitment to preserving the complete lineage of Takamatsu-den martial systems—a collection of ancient combat methods passed down through generations of Japanese warriors. Unlike many martial arts resources that offer simplified or modernized interpretations, AKBAN presents techniques with historical accuracy, practical applications, and the philosophical context in which they were developed.
Our encyclopedia serves both practitioners and scholars by providing detailed step-by-step breakdowns of techniques alongside their Japanese terminology, historical context, and tactical applications. Each entry is supported by high-quality visual documentation, allowing students to study nuances that might be lost in text descriptions alone. This systematic approach to cataloging martial knowledge bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern practice, making AKBAN an invaluable resource for serious martial artists worldwide.

Ninjutsu Training Syllabus

The yearly training syllabus represents AKBAN's structured approach to martial education. Unlike many modern martial arts systems that focus primarily on competition or self-defense, AKBAN's curriculum preserves the comprehensive syllabus. The syllabus integrates fundamental movements, tactical principles, and progressive skill development that builds competence across multiple domains of combat. This methodical approach ensures practitioners develop not just isolated techniques, but a coherent and adaptable martial system applicable across various contexts.

One year of syllabus - AKBAN Ninjutsu

Weekly lessons with Yossi Sheriff

Examination System

The belt-ranking system within AKBAN differs significantly from commercialized martial arts schools. We don't do certificates for money. It takes between 5–12 years for a black belt. Each rank represents verifiable mastery of specific principles and techniques rather than time spent training. The progression from yellow to black belt encompasses increasingly complex concepts and requires students to demonstrate not only technical proficiency but also understanding of tactical applications and the ability to adapt techniques to various scenarios. This rigorous examination system maintains the integrity of the tradition while providing students with clear developmental milestones.

Exam levels in AKBAN Ninjutsu ↔
Ninjutsu exam requirements from admission through graduation and beyond

Combat Stances (Kamae)

Kamae form the foundation of all technical expression in Ninjutsu. These postures are far more than static positions—they represent tactical readiness, psychological preparation, and strategic advantage. Each stance optimizes the body for specific responses, creates defensive coverage of vital areas, and positions limbs for immediate offensive or defensive action. Mastery of kamae develops the practitioner's ability to maintain balance, generate power, and transition smoothly between offensive and defensive applications, making them essential to effective combat strategy.

Ninjutsu combat stances - Kamae

Proper stances and uses

Joint Locks (Kansetsu-waza)

The joint manipulation techniques of Ninjutsu represent sophisticated control mechanisms developed through centuries of battlefield and peacekeeping applications. They differ from sport-oriented grappling, in two aspects, applying the level of violence to the situation and a design to function against armed and armored opponents, often while wearing armor oneself. The methodology focuses on mechanical advantage, tactical positioning, and anatomical vulnerability. These techniques allow practitioners to neutralize threats with measured force appropriate to the situation—from gentle control to complete incapacitation—making them invaluable for both historical warrior classes and modern security professionals.

Ninjutsu joint locks and armlocks

Control, breakage or spraining

Throwing Techniques (Nage-waza)

Ninjutsu throwing techniques evolved from the need to rapidly incapacitate armored opponents on battlefields. These methods utilize subtle disruptions of balance combined with mechanical leverage to overcome even physically superior adversaries. What distinguishes AKBAN's approach to throwing techniques is the emphasis on practical application rather than aesthetic form—throws are integrated with strikes, locks, and weapons techniques to create comprehensive tactical responses. Each technique teaches fundamental principles of balance, timing, and biomechanics applicable across the entire martial system.

Ninjutsu throws and takedowns

Off balancing and takedowns

Kicks (Geri)

The kicking methods preserved in AKBAN's encyclopedia reflect the practical reality of historical combat. Unlike sport-oriented kicks optimized for point scoring, these techniques target vulnerable areas with precision and economy of motion. The methodology emphasizes low-risk execution, stability during delivery, and seamless integration with other fighting methods. This approach allows practitioners to use legs as powerful weapons while minimizing exposure to counters or loss of balance, reflecting the life-or-death nature of traditional combat applications.

Ninjutsu Kicks

Takamatsu-den Ancient Systems

The Takamatsu-den systems represent one of history's most comprehensive collections of traditional Japanese martial arts, transmitted through an unbroken lineage from feudal Japan to the present day. These nine distinct schools (ryū) each developed specialized approaches to combat based on the needs and experiences of specific warrior groups:

1. Shindenfudō-ryū Dakentaijutsu (founded 1113): Originally developed by Izumo Kanja Yoshiteru, this system emphasizes natural body movement and the study of nature's principles. Its techniques focus on powerful striking methods and resilient body conditioning. The current Sōke (headmaster) is Nagato Toshiro, representing the 27th generation of this tradition.
2. Kukishin-ryū Happōbikenjutsu (founded 1336): Created at the end of the Kamakura era, this comprehensive system is renowned for its extensive weapons curriculum. The school preserves battlefield techniques for spear, staff, sword, and many unique weapons developed by the Kuki family of samurai. Iwata Yoshio serves as the 29th generation Sōke.
3. Takagiyōshin-ryū Jūtaijutsu (founded 1625): Established by Takagi Oriemon Shigenobu, this school specializes in flexible body techniques for self-defense, including sophisticated methods for unarmed defense against sword attacks. Its principles emphasize adapting to an opponent's force rather than meeting it directly. The tradition continues under 18th generation Sōke Sakasai Norio.
4. Gyokko-ryū Kosshijutsu (founded 1156): One of the oldest systems, founded by Tozawa Hakūnsai, Gyokko-ryū has been highly influential in shaping the fundamental unarmed techniques of the Bujinkan system. Its specialty lies in precise finger and toe striking methods targeting vital points. The 29th generation is headed by Sōke Ishizuka Tetsuji.
5. Kotō-ryū Koppōjutsu (founded 1532): Developed by Sakagami Taro Kunishige, this school focuses on bone-breaking techniques and distinctive footwork patterns. Its methods are characterized by direct, powerful approaches to combat with an emphasis on incapacitating opponents quickly. Noguchi Yukio leads as the 19th generation Sōke.

The remaining schools—Gikan-ryū, Togakure-ryū, Kumogakure-ryū, and Gyokushin-ryū—each contribute unique perspectives and specialized techniques to the comprehensive AKBAN curriculum, though some are less widely taught. Together, these nine traditions form a holistic martial system that addresses combat at all ranges and scenarios, from unarmed encounters to full battlefield engagement.

• Kukishin Ryū techniques, 九鬼神流 - The Nine demons school
  
• Koto Ryu techniques, 虎倒流 - Tiger Knocking Down School
• Gyokko Ryu techniques, 玉虎流 - The Jade tiger school
• Shinden Fudo Ryu techniques, 神傳不動流打 - The immovable god school
• Takagi Yoshin Ryu, 高木揚心流

Few Ryu are missing, but I am working on it.

Weekly video

Strikes

The striking methods documented in AKBAN represent sophisticated impact techniques refined through centuries of practical application—with an emphasis on pressure points. These methods extend far beyond simple punches to include specialized striking surfaces such as knuckles, fingers, palms, forearms, and elbows—each optimized for specific targets and tactical situations. What distinguishes these traditional striking techniques is their integration with body mechanics that generate maximum force with minimal telegraphing, along with tactical principles that create opportunities for effective strikes within complex combat scenarios.

Ninjutsu strikes

Hitting to control or knockout

Traditional Weapons

The weapons traditions preserved within AKBAN reflect the diverse armaments of Japanese warriors throughout history. Each weapon system includes not only technical manipulation but also maintenance, tactical application, and the strategic context in which the weapon was developed. The study of traditional weapons provides insights into historical combat realities while developing transferable skills in timing, distance management, and tactical awareness. From the battlefield versatility of the sword to the concealed potential of chain weapons, these systems represent sophisticated approaches to armed combat refined through generations of practical use.

Weapons

Japanese sword, stick, chain and Kunai

Movement (Sabaki)

The movement arts of Ninjutsu form the connective tissue between all other technical aspects of the system. Sabaki encompasses evasive movements, strategic repositioning, closing techniques, falling methods, and recovery movements that allow a practitioner to maintain tactical advantage throughout an encounter. These movement patterns were developed to navigate various terrains while wearing armor, moving silently when necessary, and transitioning seamlessly between different tactical ranges. Mastery of sabaki creates the foundation for effective application of all other techniques, making it perhaps the most essential aspect of traditional martial training.

Ninjutsu movement - Sabaki

Evasion, closing the distance, rolls and breakfalls