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View Full Version : Which Japanese Martial Art to Train and where?



bparham79
05-30-2004, 17:52
I have posted a similiar question in the chinese kung fu forum. So for anyone frequenting both forums I apologize for the redundancy of the question.

I have finally reached a point in my life where I am compelled to vigorously pursue my passions. I have recently discovered Buddhism and have always been always been fascinated with the martial arts and the code of the warrior. I have never previously studied the martial arts. I am 24 years-old, with an exceptional athletic background and raw natural physical abilities. I am currently living in Wilkes-Barre, PA but am searching for a new home that offers a place to study both of my passions. I was originally considering traveling to China to study shaolin kung fu through :

www.shaolins.com

Unfortunately, I have been reading that shaolin temples no longer train MA in communist China. Some have went as far as saying the site is a scam. I have always been interested in Samurai swordplay and aikido. I would be most interested in finding an area where I can devote most of my time to both studying both Buddhism and the martial arts, which is why I have been so enthralled with Shaolin Kung Fu (8 hours of MA training, 4 hours of meditation and Dharma studies everyday) :)

Any suggestions on geographic areas, cities which would be best to move to in order to study both Buddhism and MA. I was under the assumption that a live in facility would be the best way to accelarte my training in both areas. Any suggestions on specific Japanese swordplay arts? Any and all advice would be greatly and sincerely appreciated.

Brian Parham

Paul B
05-30-2004, 18:05
Hi Brian, first of all good luck in your search! Why do you feel you have to move in order to study Aikido or Kung Fu? I bet there are some great Dojos or kwoons somewhere around you, no? If you don't know of any, I'm sure you could find someone around here to tell you!! Just so you know, regarding your interest in swordplay, Aikido has quite a bit of it in the curriculum. Good luck in your quest!!

Best Regards,

Paul Bladen--Midwest Hapkido Group--Hanminjok Hapkido

bparham79
05-30-2004, 18:13
Hey Paul B., thanks for the very quick reply. I certainly appreciate your input. Part of the reason for wanting to move is a fresh start as well. A rebirth if you will.

Ewok85
05-31-2004, 08:00
You would just love Shorinji Kempo!

http://wsko.econ-net.or.jp/index.html