Tendo Ryu

Kimura Yasuko hails from the esteemed Konishi family, well-known for their significant contributions to Japanese martial arts, or budo. Yasuko's mother, herself a distinguished graduate of the renowned prewar Busen, a martial arts teacher training college, was a driving force behind the establishment of the All Japan Naginata Federation.

 

In her early years, Yasuko's interest gravitated towards kendo, but her mother steered her towards naginata instead. By the age of 12, she was training diligently at the Shubukan dojo, immersing herself in both modern naginata and the classical tradition of Tendo-ryu under the tutelage of Mitamura Chiyo.

 

Throughout her competitive career, Yasuko's skill and determination propelled her to the top, and she was crowned champion at the All Japan Championships not once, but four times. For two decades, she passed on her knowledge and skills as a naginata instructor at the Seishin Girls’ School. After that, she continued her teaching journey at the International Budo University for another 30 years, where she influenced many Japanese and international practitioners.

 

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Yasuko holds the esteemed position of Chairwoman at the Shubukan Dojo in Itami City. Her journey culminated in 2013 when she ascended to the role of Soke of Tendo-ryu. Choosing to dedicate her energies to teaching this classic art, she left her position at the International Budo University.

 

Currently, while she mainly instructs in Tokyo, Yasuko's commitment to Tendo-ryu and naginata sees her traveling extensively both within Japan and internationally, spreading the art form through instruction and demonstrations.