Kanjuro Shibata XX, bowmaker to the Imperial Family of Japan ( Onyumishi), Sensei.
He was captured by the Russians during the closing days of WWII, and was held by the Russians far after the end of WWII, and was not repatriated until later because Russia wanted the northern Islands of Japan's archipelago.
After returning home, he discovered that the old style of kyudo he had taught was no longer recommended and a new order was established which diminished the comprehensive approach of his lineage, Heki Ryu Biu Shyu Chikurin Ha.
He refused to conform to the modernized post WWII kyudo movement and insisted on teaching in the old way.Kyudo was taught as a meditative discipline, a polishing of the mind,< and awareness, along with the form of using the bow properly as a weapon. He emphasized the mannerly way of the nobility in the practice of kyudo in its martial and ceremonial forms.
Sensei established many dojos in America and in Europe, many of which are still operational today.He passed away in 2013 , his son has taken his place to travel and teach.
Sensei was a true samurai,as were all of his predecessors.
He was an arrow that arrived from ancient times.
I miss him.
