What is Bujinkan?

Bujinkan (武神館)) is an international martial arts organization under the patronage of Soke Masaaki Hatsumi (初見良昭, Hatsumi Masaaki, December 2, 1931), who as its founder and 34th head of the Togakure Ninpō Taijutsu school (戸隠流忍法体術), he organized and promoted under the term Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, the fighting system that includes 9 different ryu ha (traditional schools, styles), which are related to Ninjutsu as taught and bequeathed to him by his Master, Soke Toshitsugu Takamatsu (高松 寿嗣, March 10, 1889 – April 2, 1972).

However, Soke uses the term Budo (martial way, path) to describe the historical Samurai and Ninja Ryuha (traditional schools) which taught Samurai and Ninja fighting tactics.

These schools are:

• Togakure Ryū Ninpō Taijutsu (戸隠流忍法体術)
• Gyokko Ryū Kosshi jutsu (玉虎流骨指術)
• Kotō Ryū Koppō jutsu (虎倒流骨法術)
• Kuki Shinden Ryū Happō Bikenjutsu (九鬼神伝流八法秘剣術)
• Shinden Fudo Ryū Dakentai jutsu (神伝不動流打拳体術)
• Takagi Yoshin Ryū Jūtai jutsu (高木揚心流柔体術)
• Gikan Ryū Koppō Jutsu (義鑑流骨法術)
• Gyokushin Ryū Ninpō (玉心流忍法)
• Kumogakure Ryū Ninpō (雲隠流忍法)

Bujinkan was founded by Soke Masaaki Hatsumi in the 70s, at the urging of his Master, Toshitsugu Takamatsu, who shortly before he passed away (April 2, 1972) asked his student to make every effort to spread Ninjutsu and the Bujinkan martial arts around the world. In this context Hatsumi Sensei opened the doors of the Bujinkan Hombu Dojo in Noda Shi, Chiba Prefecture where he lives and teaches (from the 70s to 2019) but also his Japanese students, who continue their Master's work.

From the early 80's to the 00's, Hatsumi Sensei delivered many Tai Kai seminars around the world creating a global community under the umbrella of Bujinkan Dojo. Since the beginning of this decade, the seminars around the world have been continued by Soke Hatsumi's students, thus contributing to the development and dissemination of Ninjutsu.

Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas is an organization with the aim of spreading the traditional Japanese martial arts of Bujinkan in Greece. It was founded in Athens in 1999 by Philipp Matsiridis who is actually one of the oldest active Masters of Ninjutsu / Bujinkan worldwide. He started his Ninjutsu practice in 1980 in Berlin and joined the Bujinkan Dojo Deutschland with Master Shihan Moshe Kastiel who is a student of Shihan Doron Navon and a founding member (Senpai) of the first Bujinkan Dojo outside of Japan in 1974 (Bujinkan Dojo Israel).

He participated in many of Soke Hatsumi's Tai Kai in the 80's and 90's and travels frequently to Japan until today. In 1992 he received the title of Shidoshi 5.Dan and now holds the title of Dai Shihan 15.Dan (2018). He taught in Athens school Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas from its inception until 2010 and then returned to Germany where he founded Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Germany in Berlin and Potsdam, where he continues to teach until today.

Since 2010, Dimitris Konstantinou, student of Philipp Matsiridis (1999), took over, following the urging of his Teacher, the management of the school. He oversees the course and directs the school with the aim of always spreading and developing Ninjutsu / Bujinkan in our country. He organizes the first children's and adolescent Ninjutsu classes in Greece since December 2010 and guides older students in undertaking the educational process. In Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas we are particularly happy to have a large age range of trainees, which is the result of our development effort at young ages for many years.

“Banbutsu Ruten” means “everything flows”

Training in Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas

Training in Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas reflects the harmonious synthesis of ancient martial traditions with the practical demands of modern life. Rooted in the teachings of Soke Hatsumi Masaaki, Ninjutsu / Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu / Ninpo Taijutsu / Bujutsu, offers a comprehensive approach to martial arts that goes beyond fighting techniques.

In Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas we emphasize in adaptability, ensuring that traditional techniques are relevant in the modern context. Trainees explore a multitude of skills, from training in unarmed combat and armed combat, while developing diligence, environmental awareness, resilience and strategy.

Training sessions aim to create a flexible mind and body system. The heart of Bujinkan lies in cultivating a deep understanding of strategy, timing, discrimination and the psychology of battle. The necessary skills, to learn Ninjutsu are developed through a highly functional training.

Bujinkan training promotes personal growth, by cultivating discipline, humility and respect. As practitioners progress, they not only develop self-defense skills, but also embrace a philosophy that promotes internal and external harmony. This combination of tradition and practicality in Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas, ensures that Ninjutsu and Bujinkan martial arts remain a living organism that inscribes a holistic experience on the human body.

The Dojo

At Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas we are dedicated to the cultivation of the Japanese traditional martial art, Ninjutsu / Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu based on the teachings of Soke Hatsumi Masaaki - founder of Bujinkan, and inspired by the vision of the of Dai Shihan Philipp Matsiridis, under the influential guidance of Shihan Dimitris Konstantinou.

With love and passion for ninjutsu and the Japanese martial arts of Bujinkan, Dimitris Konstantinou guides our community on a transformative path to evolution, growth and improvement, both individual and group. With years of experience as a student/practitioner and instructor in Bujinkan Ninjutsu, he is dedicated in passing on the knowledge and experiences he has received over almost three decades from his Dai Shihan Philipp Matsiridis as well as Japanese instructors, such as Nagato Sensei - Soke of Shinden Fudo Ryu and student of Soke Hatsumi.

Our school (Dojo) is a place where traditional Japanese martial arts (jutsu) are combined in order to meet the needs of modern man for physical and mental well-being, through the holistic application of training methods and self-defense techniques and finally the recognition of the capabilities of body and mind.

What We Offer:
Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas is more than just a martial arts school. It is a place of learning, growth and friendship. From the art of taijutsu - the physical techniques of body movement - to the details of weapons training (bujutsu) our program covers a comprehensive range of skills. We prioritize authenticity, ensuring that the spirit of traditional Japanese martial arts is preserved and shared with the utmost respect.

Training Environment:
Our dojo is conveniently located near the center of Athens and provides an ideal environment for practice. The building covers an area of 150 m2, with a single tatami area of 60 m2, equipped with high-quality judo mats, with a special anti-microbial coating and anti-vibration material, according to Olympic Games’ specifications, so that there is absolute safety during education. With separate changing rooms for men and women, as well as showers, we prioritize your comfort and convenience. The place is air-conditioned and equipped with fans and dehumidifiers, so that the lessons of the young and older students of our school can take place in the best possible conditions no matter the weather conditions.

Community and Growth:
At Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas we believe in promoting a sense of community and support among our members. Regardless of your skill level, our dojo is a place where you can challenge yourself, learn from experienced practitioners and embrace the teachings of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu / Ninjutsu.

Whether you are starting a new martial art, or looking to improve your existing skills, Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas welcomes you to join us. Discover the art of ninjutsu, experience the richness of Japanese martial traditions and unlock your full potential in an atmosphere of solidarity and growth.

Instructors

In the heart of Athens, a sanctuary of Traditional Japanese martial Arts comes alive at Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas. Led by a dedicated team of trainers, this dojo is a place where the spirit of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu thrives and where practitioners embark on profound journeys of self-discovery and mastery.

Meet the Instructors:

Dimitris Konstantinou
Shihan 11.Dan
Instructor & Director of the Dojo'
Meet Dimitris Konstantinou, a seasoned expert. He started his Bujinkan Ninjutsu training with Dai Shihan Philipp Matsiridis, 25 years before (March 1999). He got his 1.Dan (Shodan) on 2007. On May 2018 passed his Sakki test and became a Shidoshi (5.Dan Godan). He is now holding the title of Shihan and got his 11.Dan on August 2024. As both a trainer and the Director of the Dojo, he provides unparalleled guidance in the art of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu. With his wealth of experience, he leads practitioners on a transformative journey toward martial arts mastery.

Kostas Grimanelis
Shidoshi 5.Dan
Kostas Grimanelis, a dedicated martial artist holding a 5 Dan as a Shidoshi (August 2024). He brings his passion and expertise to the Dojo. As a Shidoshi, he offers valuable insights and training to fellow enthusiasts, contributing to the growth and development of the martial arts community. He is active in Bujinkan Ninjutsu from 2010 as student of Shihan Dimitris Konstantinou.

Christos Doufekas
Shidoshi 5.Dan
Join Christos Doufekas, a skilled practitioner. His commitment to the art is evident in his training and instruction, making a valuable contribution to the Dojo's vibrant martial arts community.He is Ninjutsu practitioner from 2006. He got his 1.Dan (Shodan) on 2021 from his teacher Shihan Dimitris Konstantinou.He is holding now the 5.Dan and the title of Shidoshi.

Explore their individual profiles and discover the rich tapestry of experience and dedication that makes Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas a hub for martial arts excellence.

Groups

At our Ninjutsu Bujinkan martial arts school, we believe in nurturing the potential of every individual, regardless of age. We understand that each stage of life comes with its unique challenges and opportunities for growth.

This is the reason why we have carefully designed our student groups to cater to different age ranges, ensuring that our students receive the best possible training and support, at every stage of their martial arts journey.

NINJA STARS (Ages 4-6 years)

Where Young Warriors Begin

Our Ninja Stars program, 4 to 6 years old, is specially crafted for the youngest members of our martial arts community. At this tender age, we focus on building a strong foundation for physical and mental development. Using well studied, fun and engaging activities, we introduce these future ninjas to the fundamental principles of discipline, coordination, and respect. It's the perfect starting point for their journey into the world of martial arts.

NINJA JUNIORS (Ages 6-8 years)

Fostering Confidence and Coordination

As student’s progress, they move forward to our Ninja Juniors program, designed for ages 6 to 8 years. We continue to hone their physical skills while emphasizing self-confidence and teamwork. Our experienced instructors guide them through more advanced techniques, helping them gaining a deeper understanding of the art of Ninjutsu. It's the stage where their youthful enthusiasm meets structured training, setting the stage for future success.

NINJA WARRIORS (Ages 9-12 years)

Building Skills and Character

For those aged 9 to 12 years, our Ninja Warriors program offers a dynamic and challenging curriculum. At this stage, students delve deeper into the techniques and Ninjutsu mentality and philosophy. They not only learn self-defense but also develop essential life skills such as focus, leadership, and resilience. Coordination and neuromuscular memory begin through the introduction to learning and practicing the traditional kata of Kihon Happo (Gyokko Ryu). This stage is about building character and instilling values that will serve them well in martial arts and in life.

ADULTS (Ages 13+ years and Adults)

Mastery Through Dedication

Our Adult program is tailored to individuals aged 13 years and older, acknowledging that the journey of a ninja is lifelong. In this group, we continue to refine techniques, foster mental resilience, and encourage a deep understanding of the art. Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or a beginner, our experienced instructors will guide you on a path to mastery, providing the tools and knowledge you need to excel in Ninjutsu. We study and get continuous training in the traditional techniques of the “9 Bujinkan Ryuha”(Traditional schools-trends) such as Gyokko Ryu Kosshi Jutsu, Koto Ryu Koppo Jutsu, Shinden Fudo Ryu DakenTaijutsu/Jutaijutsu, Kukishinden Ryu Happo Biken Jutsu, Takagi Yoshin Ryu Ninpo Taijutsu, Gikkan Ryu Koppo Jutsu, Togakure Ryu Ninpo, Kumogakure Ryu Ninpo, Gyokushin Ryu Ninpo.

Ninjutsu / Ninpo Taijutsu / Budo Taijutsu / Bujutsu is a system with structure and substance that includes the entire range of elements required to be present in a complete martial art such as: armed and unarmed combat, locks, strikes, kicks, pressure on points , chokes, throws, holds, counter techniques, releases from holds and grabs, hand-to-hand combat, unarmed vs. armed, combat tactics, crisis psychology, self-defense/self-protection (Taijutsu / Bujutsu / Muto Dori / Shinken / Goshin / Keiko / Randori)

At our Ninjutsu Bujinkan martial arts school, the oldest Bujinkan/Ninjutsu school in Greece, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their age. We believe that Ninjutsu is not just a martial art but a way of life, and we invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey of self-discovery, discipline, and personal growth.

Bujinkan Training in Modern Dojos

Bujinkan training in modern dojos today embodies the harmonious fusion of ancient martial traditions with the practical demands of contemporary life. Rooted in the teachings of Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu offers a comprehensive approach to martial arts that extends beyond combat techniques.

Modern Bujinkan dojos emphasize adaptability, ensuring that traditional techniques are relevant in today's context. Practitioners explore a range of skills, from unarmed combat to weapon mastery, while cultivating mindfulness, situational awareness, and resilience.

Training sessions often include rigorous physical conditioning to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. However, the heart of Bujinkan lies in cultivating a deep understanding of strategy, timing, and the psychology of combat. These insights empower practitioners to navigate challenges both on and off the mat.

Bujinkan training encourages personal growth by nurturing discipline, humility, and respect. As practitioners progress, they not only develop self-defense skills but also embrace a philosophy that fosters harmony with oneself and the world. This synthesis of tradition and practicality in modern dojos ensures that Bujinkan remains a relevant and transformative martial art in the modern era.

Exams

The exam material can be renewed, and therefore should not be taken as a stereotyped and restrictive structure, but as a flexible and lively accompaniment on the long path of our martial art.

The curriculum of Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas is described in the two published editions of Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas, "Ninjutsu Basic Training Program" and "Ninjutsu Advanced Training Program", both available at the Dojo.

Material content

The exam material is structured according to the following three levels of education of Ninjutsu / Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu.

SHU (basic training, ie 9th - 8th - 7th Kyu)

At this level the student imitates the techniques he sees from his teacher without yet understanding them in depth. He mostly tries to practice the kinesiology and test his patience. This level corresponds to his principles Of Sky (Ten Ryaku No Maki).

HA (middle education, ie 6th - 5th - 4th Kyu)

The student begins to understand why techniques are done the way they are and starts to combine the various individual techniques into a complete unit. He widens his horizon with new techniques. The level corresponds with the principles Of Earth (Chi Ryaku No Maki).

RI (higher education, ie 3rd - 2nd - 1st Kyu)

The student develops an awareness of his opponent's possible actions and can increasingly adapting and using his knowledge to actual conflict situations. This level corresponds to the principles of Human (Jin Ryaku No Maki).

The next level is four DAN degrees, during the training of which the student perfects his knowledge and goes deeper into armed combat and the peculiarities of different schools (9 Bujinkan Ryu).

Exams take place two to three times a year. The exact dates are agreed and determined based on the progress and participation of the students in the lessons. Trainers are responsible for the preparation of the participants. Every student should strive in the examination to obtain that grade which he really deserves and which corresponds to his level of ability. Teacher has the right to deviate from the examined material, if this is the way to form a better opinion about the examined student and fairly judge him. The purpose of the exams is the awareness that the student acquires, about the performance he can have under conditions of pressure and stress, the evaluation by him and clearly the satisfaction after a worthy attendance. By taking a look at the teaching material, described in the two editions of Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas, "Ninjutsu Basic Training Program" and "Ninjutsu Advanced Training Program", becomes clear that the examined material can only be indicative as it includes representative techniques from each field and leisure.

H ύλη των Kyu και Dan παραδίδεται στους μαθητές κατά την διάρκεια των μαθημάτων και με βάση αυτή διαμορφώνεται ένα μέρος του ετήσιου προγράμματος εκπαίδευσης.

Στην εξέταση του Godan 5.Dan o μαθητής λαμβάνει μέρος στην διαδικασία Sakki Test (Godan Test) το οποίο πραγματοποιείται από τον Dai Shihan Φίλιππο Ματζηρίδη. Από το 6.Dan έως το 9.Dan, οι υψηλόβαθμοι μαθητές μας - εκπαιδευτές της σχολής μας, καλούνται να παρουσιάσουν συγκεκριμένα κεφάλαια μέσα από την ύλη των 9 Bujinkan Ryu. Η ύλη αυτή καθορίζεται απο τον διευθύνον της σχολής Shihan Δημήτρη Κωνσταντίνου κai την επίβλεψη του Dai Shihan Φίλιππου Ματζηρίδη.

The material of Kyu and Dan is delivered to the students during the lessons and, based on this, a part of the annual training program is formed.

In the Godan 5.Dan exam, the student takes part in the Sakki Test (Godan Test) process which is carried out by Dai Shihan Philipp Matsiridis. From 6.Dan to 9.Dan, our high ranking students - instructors of our school, are asked to present specific chapters through the material of the 9 Bujinkan Ryu. This material is determined by the director of the school, Shihan Dimitris Konstantinou and the supervision of Dai Shihan Philipp Matsiridis.

Shihan title is given in 10.Dan. The grade system in Bujinkan is completed at 15.Dan.

How can I become a trainer?

You firstly need to possess the Sandan-Yondan degrees (3rd - 4th Dan), have a constant presence in the club's classes and seminars and participate as a teacher's assistant in the training program of the classes (children and adults), of Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas. The goal is to specialize, gain experience, strengthen relationships by cultivating team spirit and last but not least developing empathy and pedagogy in order to become a certified Bujinkan instructor. In this process the future instructor receives the title of Shidoshi Ho. After completing this process, he proceeds to the 5.Dan exam (Sakki Test) and if he succeeds, he obtains the title of Shidoshi and we can now say that he can officially teach, either at the central school or at their own school. As an association we are always at the side of our members, who have chosen to become Ninjutsu instructors, helping them if they want to proceed with starting their own Ninjutsu school or department in partner Dojos.

Promotion criteria

The criteria based on which students are graded are seven:

1. Chishiki (知識) Knowledge
   Does he know the technique and how it is performed?
2. Kamae (構) Stance
   Does he stand properly and naturally?
3. Kuzushi (崩) Balance
   Does he control his body during his movement?
   Can he thus control and break the opponent's?
4. Maai (間合) Distance
   Does he keep proper distances while performing the technique?
5. Nagare (流) Flow
   Does he flow from one movement to another, without interruptions?
6. Kiketsu (帰結) Result
   Do his actions (hits, locks, throws, etc.) bring the desired result?
7. Kiai (気合) (metaphorically: Mirror of inner state)

Note: Criterion is considered for shodan and above.

Observations and advice to examinees

The examinee must demonstrate all the techniques required from both opening stance (Kumi Uchi, holds) and attack (Tsuki, Keri, multiple attacks). The examinee must demonstrate a complete technique, no matter how simple it may be. The same thing applies to immobilizations (Osaekomi). It is good for the examinee to show them by finishing with these locks (Kansetsu Waza), releases (Hodokis) or throws (Nage Waza) of the degree being examined. In Dan exams, the examinee may be asked to demonstrate techniques with eyes closed or hands tied etc. Also, from the RI level and above, and of course in Dan, the examinees may be asked to do Randori (controlled but without any guards). Self-defense and the application of techniques is a key requirement in the examination of an advanced student at Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas.

At Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas, our students take an exam when they are already ready for their next two grades!

Kyu and Dan grades and degrees in Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas, are issued only by Bujinkan Hombu Dojo Japan and bear the seal of our association, thus maintaining the high standard and absolute respect for the authenticity and traditions of BUJINKAN martial arts, the way they are handed down to us by the founder of Bujinkan, Soke Hatsumi. It should be noted that the students of the school are not obliged to follow the system of grades and exams. Through their training in the material of Bujinkan Banbutsu Ruten Dojo Hellas they can comfortably participate in the process. Our material is an education system!!!

Basic Knowledge in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu

Basic knowledge forms the cornerstone of proficiency in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, providing a solid foundation for practitioners to build upon. This encompasses essential concepts that pave the way for effective training and understanding.

Junan Taiso 柔軟体操 - Body Conditioning

Body Conditioning - Junan Taiso: Junan Taiso, or body conditioning exercises, are integral to preparing the body for the physical demands of Bujinkan training. These exercises enhance flexibility, joint mobility, and overall strength. By cultivating a supple and resilient body, practitioners reduce the risk of injury and optimize their ability to execute techniques with precision.

It should be stressed that the Junan Taisō conditioning exercises are of much greater significance than mere “warm-ups” for fighting practice in the dojo. The exercises actually form a basis for healthy living by presenting an opportunity to experience the mental and physical aspects of the body in harmony.

Taihenjutsu 体変術 - Body Skills

Breakfalls - Ukemis: Ukemis, or breakfalls, are crucial skills for protecting oneself during training. Learning to fall safely and gracefully is paramount in Bujinkan. Practitioners develop the ability to absorb impact, disperse force, and recover swiftly from falls, ensuring their safety while practicing techniques and engaging in realistic scenarios.

Fighting Poses - Kamae: Kamae, or fighting poses, represent the foundational stances that set the stage for effective combat and defense. These stances provide stability, balance, and readiness for engagement. By mastering various kamae, practitioners develop the ability to adapt to different situations, control distance, and execute techniques efficiently.

Body Skills - Tai Jutsu: Tai Jutsu, the essence of body skills, encompasses the art's core techniques and principles. It involves using the body's natural movements to strike, grapple, throw, and evade effectively. Tai Jutsu teaches practitioners how to blend with an opponent's energy, exploiting vulnerabilities while maintaining balance and control. This fundamental aspect of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu empowers practitioners to engage in dynamic and versatile combat scenarios.

In summary, basic knowledge in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu lays the groundwork for a practitioner's journey. By honing body conditioning, mastering breakfalls, perfecting fighting poses, and understanding body skills, individuals create a solid base from which to explore the art's intricate techniques, philosophy, and personal growth.