Koryu
Koryu (古流) is a Japanese word that translates literally as old school or old tradition.
It is used to refer to schools of martial arts that predate the Meiji restoration, a political event that precipitated Japan's modernization.
While arts post dating this event (gendai budo such as judo, kendo, iaido or aikido) are valued either as sports or arts for self-improvement, the koryu are the teachings of a feudal military culture. Koryu styles often contain both armed fighting with several different weapons, as well as unarmed techniques.
Koryu traditions
