Shorinji Kempo is divided into distinct curriculum streams based on demographics:
The core pedagogical method of Shorinji Kempo is Embu. Unlike the solo kata of Karate or the competitive sparring (Randori) of Judo, Embu is a pre-arranged paired demonstration.
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is divided into three major domains:
| Domain | Content | Proportion in training | |--------|---------|------------------------| | Gihō (Technical methods) | Strikes, kicks, blocks, evasions, throws, joint locks, chokes, vital point attacks | ~60% | | Hōwa (Dharma talks / moral philosophy) | Lectures on ethics, psychology, social harmony | ~20% | | Shugyō (Disciplinary practice) | Meditation (zazen), etiquette, partner trust exercises, class management | ~20% |
The curriculum is further structured by grade level: 9 kyū (student grades) and shodan (first-degree black belt) through hachidan (eighth degree), plus a unique renshi, kyōshi, hanshi teacher certification.
Shorinji Kempo is heavily influenced by traditional Chinese medicine. The curriculum requires memorization of Kyusho (pressure points) for two purposes:
Shorinji Kempo is a unique Japanese martial art that balances Goho (hard techniques like strikes) and Juho (soft techniques like grappling) with a deep focus on Kongo Zen philosophy.
If you are looking for a core piece to understand or teach the curriculum, the official Kyu Kenshi and Yudansha manuals are the definitive sources for all techniques and philosophical requirements. Core Technical Curriculum
The physical curriculum is divided into four main pillars, all of which are considered equally important for progression:
Shorinji Kempo Curriculum | English｜少林寺拳法世界連合（WSKO）
The curriculum of Shorinji Kempo is unique among Japanese martial arts for its equal emphasis on technical mastery and philosophical study. Founded by Doshin So (Kaiso) in 1947, it is designed as a "Gyo"—a discipline for developing individuals to benefit society through self-defense, spiritual cultivation, and improved health. 1. The Three Pillars of Training
The curriculum is built on three core systems that must be practiced in balance:
Philosophy (Gakka): Lessons on how to lead a better life, focusing on compassion, justice, and the principle of "half for oneself, half for others".
Techniques (Gyo): Physical training consisting of over 600 techniques.
Healing Arts (Seiho): A system of acupressure and massage used to correct body structure and promote recovery. 2. Technical Categories
Techniques are broadly divided into two major systems, known as Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (The body and mind are one): Shorinji Kempo Curriculum for Kyu Kenshi - 少林寺拳法
Report: The Curriculum and Pedagogical Structure of Shorinji Kempo
Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Analysis of the Grading System, Technical Syllabus, and Philosophical Framework
Shorinji Kempo is divided into distinct curriculum streams based on demographics:
The core pedagogical method of Shorinji Kempo is Embu. Unlike the solo kata of Karate or the competitive sparring (Randori) of Judo, Embu is a pre-arranged paired demonstration.
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is divided into three major domains:
| Domain | Content | Proportion in training | |--------|---------|------------------------| | Gihō (Technical methods) | Strikes, kicks, blocks, evasions, throws, joint locks, chokes, vital point attacks | ~60% | | Hōwa (Dharma talks / moral philosophy) | Lectures on ethics, psychology, social harmony | ~20% | | Shugyō (Disciplinary practice) | Meditation (zazen), etiquette, partner trust exercises, class management | ~20% |
The curriculum is further structured by grade level: 9 kyū (student grades) and shodan (first-degree black belt) through hachidan (eighth degree), plus a unique renshi, kyōshi, hanshi teacher certification. shorinji kempo curriculum
Shorinji Kempo is heavily influenced by traditional Chinese medicine. The curriculum requires memorization of Kyusho (pressure points) for two purposes:
Shorinji Kempo is a unique Japanese martial art that balances Goho (hard techniques like strikes) and Juho (soft techniques like grappling) with a deep focus on Kongo Zen philosophy.
If you are looking for a core piece to understand or teach the curriculum, the official Kyu Kenshi and Yudansha manuals are the definitive sources for all techniques and philosophical requirements. Core Technical Curriculum
The physical curriculum is divided into four main pillars, all of which are considered equally important for progression: Shorinji Kempo is divided into distinct curriculum streams
Shorinji Kempo Curriculum | English｜少林寺拳法世界連合（WSKO）
The curriculum of Shorinji Kempo is unique among Japanese martial arts for its equal emphasis on technical mastery and philosophical study. Founded by Doshin So (Kaiso) in 1947, it is designed as a "Gyo"—a discipline for developing individuals to benefit society through self-defense, spiritual cultivation, and improved health. 1. The Three Pillars of Training
The curriculum is built on three core systems that must be practiced in balance:
Philosophy (Gakka): Lessons on how to lead a better life, focusing on compassion, justice, and the principle of "half for oneself, half for others". Shorinji Kempo is heavily influenced by traditional Chinese
Techniques (Gyo): Physical training consisting of over 600 techniques.
Healing Arts (Seiho): A system of acupressure and massage used to correct body structure and promote recovery. 2. Technical Categories
Techniques are broadly divided into two major systems, known as Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (The body and mind are one): Shorinji Kempo Curriculum for Kyu Kenshi - 少林寺拳法
Report: The Curriculum and Pedagogical Structure of Shorinji Kempo
Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Analysis of the Grading System, Technical Syllabus, and Philosophical Framework