Taiho-Jutsu

In Taiho-Jutsu: Law and Order in the Age of the Samurai, author and judo second-dan Don Cunningham provides a fascinating introduction to the civil society of Edo-period (1603-1867) Japan-particularly the role played by the well-known warrior class, the samurai. Cunningham shows that the samurai were not, as commonly portrayed, always all-powerful mediators ruling the Chonin through the power of their swords. During this period the samurai became a part of the complex system of Japanese law enforcement. Made up of samurai as well as Machi-Bugyo-Sho (town magistrates), Yoriki (assistant samurai), Doshin (samurai patrol officers), Komono (assistants), Goyokiki (part-time police assistants) and Okappiki (informants and spies)-this intricate structure mirrored the Japanese society of the day. Taiho-Jutsu offers a detailed look at the weapons these law enforcement officers used-including the Jutte (iron truncheon), Tesson (iron fan), Yori-Bo (wooden staff), Sodegarami (sleeve entangler), Sasumata (spear fork), and Torinawa (arresting ropes)-as well as a fascinating illustrated look at the techniques used to apprehend criminals. From Kamae (stances) to parrying and striking and throwing techniques, these explanations demonstrate the practical techniques in Edo-period Japan.