Bowing In and Out of Class (Shinzen Rei)
Each class begins and ends with a bow, following traditional Japanese etiquette.
Students kneel in seiza (formal sitting) facing the kamiza (front of the dojo), typically arranged by rank.
The instructor recites the Bujinkan motto:
“Shi-kin Hara-mitsu Dai-ko-myo”
While this phrase defies direct translation, interpretations include:
"A moment of true interaction between mind and spirit may lead to enlightenment."
"The sound of the words in our reach for enlightenment creates the divine cosmic light."
It reflects the belief that any experience can be a path to growth.
All participants:
Clap twice
Bow once
Clap once
Bow again
The instructor faces the class. The senior student calls:
“Sensei ni rei” (Bow to the teacher)
All bow and say:
“Onegai shimasu” (Please train with me) – before training
“Domo arigatou gozaimashita” (Thank you very much) – after training
Blue Belt Ranks
Blue 1 – 9th Kyu
Ukemi, Sanshin no Kata, Kamae), 5 Kihon, Terminology
Blue 2 – 8th Kyu
Proficiency in all of Blue 1, plus kicking and receiving kicks, full Kihon Happo, hanbō basics
Blue 3 – 7th Kyu
Demonstrate all previous skills with proficiency, including hanbō basics, sword kamae, basic tanto (knife) handling, and flow.
Purple Belt Ranks
Purple 1 – 6th Kyu
A live blade test is taken at this rank
Purple 2 – 5th Kyu
Comprehensive test covering previous knowledge, adding weapon knowledge
Purple 3 – 4th Kyu
Expands on previous knowledge and weapons
Brown Belt Ranks
Brown 1–3 – 3rd to 1st Kyu
Demonstrate well-rounded taijutsu, fluid movement, and knowledge of Kusarigama, Kyoketsu Shoge, Shuriken, Yari, Naginata, Bisento.
Concepts like metsubushi, shoten no jutsu, and basic military strategy.
Prepare for the Shodan Test with a full review of material from Blue 1 through Brown 3
Understand all 9 school names, terminology, and introductory kuden (oral teachings).
Black Belt Ranks
Shodan (1st Dan)
Formal test of all skills to date
Must have personal training weapons
Expected to attend seminars with Shidoshi or Shihan training in Japan
Nidan to Yondan (2nd–4th Dan)
Evaluated on depth of knowledge, fluidity of movement, and continued training in weapons and strategy
Godan (5th Dan)
Known as the Sakki Test, this must be taken in Japan under a Shihan or the Sōke
Requires at least one visit to Japan beforehand
Beyond this level, ranking is based on inner growth, movement mastery, and self-discovery
Ranking
Uniform Guidelines
Men & Women: Black gi (uniform), black tabi (split-toe footwear), and appropriate belt and patch for your rank.
New Students: May begin training in loose, comfortable clothing. Students are encouraged to obtain a full uniform by the end of their first month.