Although the Ryu is not in itself a part of any religious order, it adheres to religious convictions on a traditional family basis.

Mihashira Jinja one of Yanagawa’s major shrines is dedicated to the Tachibana Clan. They and the Kage-ryu observe and always participate in religious events. Yearly Hono-Embu. Really rather embarassing having to put my own pictures on the net. But then again I am the only one that does these embu.

PURPOSE:Many years ago, if anyone went into another persons house wearing a long weapon it was not to sit down and drink tea! This not mean to say that a long sword cannot be used indoors. The value of a Japanese sword as a thrusting weapon receives little merit nowadays. There are many techniques within the Ryu that use these techniques, For example a thrusting cut under the armpit between the legs or up into the cranium through the chin all produce fatal results. There are other benefits to using the shorter sword indoors apart from cutting.

<< < < <Gusoku Armor of Mogamido type,covered with Crepe Leather with Double Ring design do Height.37.0Wt.12.0kgWorn by Tachibana Muneshige(1569-1642)16th-17th century, Momoyama period

Gusoku Armor of Hotokemarudo type, with Iyozane Scales covered with Leather do Height.39.9 Wt.6.0kg Worn by Tachibana Muneshige(1569-1642) 16th century,Momoyama period> > > > >>

Despite rigorous training in Kage-ryu, exponents encouraged to study more than just swordsmanship, and practice other traditional arts. Demonstrations of the Kage-ryu include shakuhachi, shigin, (Japanese singing), and the mikkyo (esoteric practices) and the jingai (conch horn) of the Honzan Shugenshu (a school of Shugendo or Yamabushi practices from Kyoto) Black joba-hakama and uwagi with han-juban are worn for everyday practice. White uwagi in the warmer months. Kaiin are required to wear montsuki-hakama bearing the family crest of the Tachibana clan for formal events.Crest of interwined Ginko Leaves shown below.

The Ryu has survived to this day with no rank or gradings. However, holding grades or rank in other forms of martial arts is beneficial if one wishes to become a member.