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 Shorinji Kempo curriculum is a comprehensive educational system designed to develop the body and mind in equal measure. Founded by Doshin So in 1947, this Japanese martial art goes beyond physical combat, integrating Zen philosophy with effective self-defense techniques known as Goho and Juho. Core Technical Syllabus
The Shorinji Kempo technical curriculum is divided into two primary categories of movement, practiced both solo (Tan-en) and with a partner (Sotai).
Goho (Hard Techniques): These focus on striking, kicking, and blocking. Key components include: Nio Ken: The foundational family of striking techniques.
Kihon: Basic movements like Zuki (punches) and Geri (kicks). Uke: Defensive blocks and parries.
Juho (Soft Techniques): These focus on grappling and redirection. They allow a smaller practitioner to overcome a stronger attacker through leverage and joint manipulation.
Ryuo Ken: Techniques for escaping holds and throwing opponents.
Katame Waza: Pinning and locking techniques to restrain an aggressor. shorinji kempo curriculum
Seiho (Healing Techniques): A therapeutic element involving acupressure and massage to restore physical balance and help kenshi recover from training. Rank and Belt System Shorinji Kempo Curriculum for Kyu Kenshi - 少林寺拳法
Shorinji Kempo (少林寺拳法), often translated as "Shaolin Temple Boxing," is a Japanese martial art founded by Doshin So in 1947. Unlike many combat sports, the curriculum is rooted in the principle of Ken Zen Ichinyo (Body and Mind as One), emphasizing that true strength requires a balance of physical skill and mental discipline. II. Core Technical Pillars
The physical curriculum is divided into two primary categories of movement, balanced to provide a complete self-defense system:
Gōhō (Hard Methods): Focuses on "hard" techniques including strikes (tsuki), kicks (keri), and blocks (uke).
Jūhō (Soft Methods): Focuses on "soft" techniques used when grabbed, including releases, joint locks, and throws (nage).
Seihō (Healing Methods): A unique element of the curriculum involving acupressure and massage to restore the body's balance after training. III. Fundamental Training Elements (Kihon)
Students begin by mastering Kihon (basics), which form the foundation for all advanced techniques: Kamae (Stances): Proper body positioning and balance.
Umpohō (Footwork): Precise movement and distance management.
Taisabaki (Body Movement): Evasive maneuvers to avoid attacks.
Ukemi (Breakfalls): Learning how to fall or roll safely to minimize injury. IV. Progression and Grading Shorinji Kempo is a unique Japanese martial art
Shorinji Kempo uses a tiered grading system. Students (Kenshi) progress through Kyu (belt) grades before reaching Dan (black belt) ranks. Belt Color Focus Area 6th Kyu Basic stances, strikes, and etiquette. 5th–4th Kyu Yellow/Orange Introduction to basic Gōhō and Jūhō pairs. 3rd–1th Kyu Green/Blue/Brown Complex combinations and counter-attacks. 1st Dan+ Mastery of advanced techniques and philosophy. V. Forms of Practice
Tan-en (Single Form): Solo kata used to refine individual form and balance.
Sotai (Pair Form): The primary method of training, where Kenshi practice techniques with a partner to understand timing and distance.
Embu (Choreographed Sparring): A high-speed demonstration of techniques performed in pairs, often used in competitions.
Randori (Free-form Sparring): Controlled application of techniques in a dynamic, unpredictable environment. VI. Philosophical Curriculum (Gakka)
Instruction is not limited to the dojo floor; "Gakka" (lectures) are a mandatory part of the curriculum. Key concepts include:
Jiki Jiki Ichinyo: Self and others as one; the idea that helping others is a form of self-improvement.
Shushin Kōjo: The goal of developing a healthy mind in a healthy body.
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is a structured path that balances physical technique, mental discipline, and philosophical education. Founded in 1947 by Doshin So, the system is designed not just for self-defense, but to develop individuals who can contribute to a peaceful society. Core Technical Pillars
The physical curriculum is divided into three main categories of technique: Shodan (1st Dan)
Goho (Hard Techniques): Striking-based defenses including punches (tsuki), kicks (keri), and blocks (uke).
Juho (Soft Techniques): Grappling-based defenses such as releases from grabs, pins, and throws.
Seiho (Healing Techniques): A system for adjusting the body and improving health, often involving pressure points or massage to balance the nervous system. Ranking and Progression
Beginner's guide - East London Shorinji Kempo - Practical Martial Art
Shorinji Kempo is a modern Japanese martial art founded in 1947 by Doshin So. Its curriculum blends physical techniques, moral education, and community practice to form a program meant to develop character as much as fighting ability. This essay examines the curriculum’s structure, pedagogical logic, technical content, and broader social aims, arguing that Shorinji Kempo functions as an integrated system where technique and ethics mutually reinforce one another.
| Feature | Shorinji Kempo | Karate (Shotokan) | Judo | Krav Maga | |---------|---------------|-------------------|------|-----------| | Competition | None | Yes (tournaments) | Yes | No | | Philosophical exam | Mandatory | Rare | No | No | | Pre-arranged forms | Partner hokei | Solo kata | Nage no kata | No | | Ground fighting | Minimal | None | Extensive | Some | | Vital point teaching | Yes (kyūsho) | Rare | No | No | | Zen meditation | Yes (mokuso) | Optional | No | No |
The table shows that Shorinji Kempo’s curriculum is unique in requiring philosophical literacy and non-competitiveness while maintaining a complete striking/grappling toolkit.
To understand the curriculum, one must correlate the four specific Waza groups.
Seikei distinguishes Shorinji Kempo from many purely combative systems. The founder framed practice as "a way to cultivate the human spirit." Moral instruction takes concrete forms:
The pedagogical aim is reciprocal: moral education shapes how techniques are used (self-defense, protection, not aggression), while rigorous technical practice fosters virtues—perseverance, composure under stress, and empathy for training partners.
There are typically six Kyu ranks for adults (though this varies slightly by region).
This is the "healing fist." Based on acupuncture meridians (without needles), Seihō is first aid.