The Next Chapter: Sean Askew's New Endeavors
New Koto Ryu Book On The Horizon
Renowned Bujinkan teacher and researcher Sean Askew is not one to rest on his laurels. With a rich history of training under Hatsumi Sensei and the Bujinkan Shihan during his decade-long residence in Japan, Askew has become a prominent figure in the martial arts community. Now, he's gearing up for some exciting new projects that promise to deepen our understanding of ancient martial traditions.
A graduate of Sophia University with a degree in Japanese Language & History, Askew brings both academic rigor and practical experience to his work. His latest collaboration with fellow Bujinkan instructor Alex Esteve involves the creation of a groundbreaking book on Koto Ryu. Set to be released in February/March 2025, this book will offer unprecedented insights into this ancient martial arts tradition, including previously unreleased material and a detailed exploration of the life and teachings of Noguchi Sensei, the current head of the school.
"We want to have it presented in March at the Taikai."
- Sean Askew speaking on the Shugyo podcast from Yasuragi Dojo
But that's not all. Askew is also hard at work on a follow-up to his acclaimed book, Hidden Lineage, which delves into the hidden history of the Bujinkan. Additionally, he's undertaking the formidable task of translating a rare Japanese military text dating back to the 1770s. This nearly 300-page encyclopedia, focusing on the martial arts of Natori Ryu, is a treasure trove of knowledge with only three known copies in existence. Of particular interest is a section known as the Shinobi no maki, or ninja scroll, offering invaluable insights into the secretive world of the ninja.
"There's a whole chapter in there, Shinobi No Maki."
- Sean Askew speaking on the Shugyo podcast from Yasuragi Dojo
What sets Askew's work apart is not just his expertise in the martial arts but also his dedication to preserving and disseminating the rich cultural heritage of Japan. His upcoming projects, spanning from in-depth explorations of ancient traditions to the meticulous translation of rare texts, are sure to be invaluable resources for practitioners and enthusiasts alike. Stay tuned for these exciting releases, as Sean Askew continues to push the boundaries of martial arts scholarship and practice.
Sean Askew is awarded Menkyo Kaiden
Chicago recently played host to a gathering of martial arts enthusiasts from across the globe as they converged for the highly anticipated Noguchi Sensei Taikai. The event, a training seminar for students in the Bujinkan, offered a unique opportunity for practitioners to deepen their understanding of classical Japanese martial arts under the guidance of esteemed instructors.
Unraveling the Truth
Uncover the truth about these enigmatic figures from feudal Japan
▪️ Did ninja wear black?
▪️ Were the samurai their sworn enemies?
▪️ Could ninja walk on water?
▪️ Were shinobi ruthless killers?
