JUJITSU CLASSES
Focus on Attention to Detail, Effective Technique with Safe and Respectful Protocols
At Asheville Sun Soo, we practice the Danzan Ryu system of Jujitsu.
Founded by Professor Henry Seishiro Okazaki (1890-1951) in the 1920s, Danzan Ryu Jujitsu was first taught at his dojo, the Kodenkan (meaning “School of Ancient Tradition”) in Honolulu, Hawaii. At Asheville Sun Soo, our focus is on developing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—while also teaching practical self-defense skills.
Our approach integrates the three core principles of Excellence, Generosity, and Personal Responsibility, alongside the five tenets of: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. These principles guide our practice and foster growth both on and off the mat.
Professor Okazaki was born in Honshu, Japan, and moved to Hawaii at the age of 16. Initially studying Judo to improve his health, Okazaki later mastered several martial arts, including Yoshin Ryu, Iwaga Ryu, and Kosogabe Ryu Jujitsu, as well as Okinawan Karate, Chinese Gung Fu, Philippine knife play, Hawaiian Lua, and American boxing and wrestling. In 1924, Okazaki traveled to Japan, visiting over 50 dojos and acquiring 675 different techniques. He also studied Kappo (first aid) and Seifukujitsu (restorative massage), understanding the importance of healing in the martial arts world.
Upon returning to Hawaii, Okazaki combined the diverse techniques he had learned into a single system—Danzan Ryu. “Danzan“ means “Sandalwood Mountain,” the Chinese name for Hawaii. The philosophy behind Danzan Ryu emphasizes Kokua, a Hawaiian word meaning cooperation or helping one another. This idea is reflected in our teaching style: more advanced students help pass knowledge to beginners, fostering a collaborative, community-driven environment. Danzan Ryu also broke traditional boundaries, becoming one of the first martial arts systems to be open to all people, regardless of ethnicity or background. Professor Okazaki championed the American ideal of equal opportunity for all.
Instruction is facilitated by 7th Degree Professor Thabiti Sabahive in a welcoming environment that focuses on attention to detail, effective technique with safe and respectful protocols.
Speak to your instructor, our front desk or give us a call at 828-505-4309 to inquire about your eligibility and the availability of these classes.
JUJITSU
Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:40-8:40pm
History of Jujitsu
Jujitsu (sometimes spelled Jiu-Jitsu, Jujutsu, or Ju-Jitsu) is a traditional Japanese martial art with a deep history that dates back centuries. Here’s an overview of its evolution:
Ancient Origins (Pre-17th Century):
The roots of Jujitsu can be traced back to ancient Japan, where warriors required effective hand-to-hand combat techniques for battle. During the Nara (710–794) and Heian (794–1185) periods, various forms of martial arts and self-defense systems began to emerge.
Feudal Japan (12th–16th Century):
During the Sengoku period (15th-16th century), as Japan was embroiled in constant warfare, the samurai sought ways to enhance their combat abilities. Jujitsu was refined, emphasizing throws, joint locks, strikes, and grappling techniques.
The Rise of the Samurai (17th Century):
With the peace established during the Edo period (1603–1868), Jujitsu evolved to focus less on warfare and more on self-defense, personal development, and discipline.
Ryu and Styles (17th–19th Century):
Numerous schools (or “ryu”) emerged during this time, each with its own specialized techniques and philosophies. Some of the most notable schools include Yoshin-ryu, Takenouchi-ryu, and Shindo Yoshin-ryu.
Decline and Revival (Late 19th Century):
The Meiji Restoration (1868) brought modernization to Japan, which led to the decline of many traditional martial arts. However, Jigoro Kano, a student of several Jujitsu masters, founded Judo in 1882, integrating Jujitsu techniques with an emphasis on mutual benefit and personal growth.
Global Spread (20th Century):
Judo played a significant role in spreading Jujitsu’s core principles worldwide. As Japan opened up to the world, martial artists from many different countries began to study Judo, which helped propel Jujitsu into a global martial art.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (20th Century):
In the early 20th century, Judo master Mitsuyo Maeda introduced Judo to Brazil. One of his students, Carlos Gracie, adapted Judo techniques into what we now know as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), which became known for its effectiveness in ground fighting and submission grappling.
The Evolution of Jujitsu in Japan
In ancient Japan, various clans developed unique systems of combat, both armed and unarmed, to ensure their survival in battle. Mastery of these techniques was essential to a clan’s success. The term Jujitsu generally refers to these diverse systems of hand-to-hand combat.
As Japan entered the Tokugawa era (1603-1868), weapons became less essential due to the rise of firearms, and the practice of Jujitsu began to shift toward self-defense and personal discipline. In 1882, Jigoro Kano, a student of many Jujitsu masters, established the Kodokan school in Tokyo. Kano’s efforts led to the development of Judo, a sport that evolved directly from Jujitsu.
While Judo became a more formalized and widespread sport, Jujitsu remained a broad term encompassing traditional martial arts that have evolved over time into various schools and systems.