The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is the primary textbook and study guide used by kenshi (practitioners) of Shorinji Kempo worldwide. This manual serves as a definitive resource, bridging the gap between the physical techniques of the martial art and the foundational philosophy established by its founder, Doshin So. Core Contents of the Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon
The Tokuhon is structured to support a practitioner's journey from beginner (kyu) to advanced (dan) ranks, covering both the technical and philosophical pillars of the art.
Philosophical Foundations: It outlines the core principles of Kongo Zen, including Ken Zen Ichinyo (unity of body and mind) and Riki Ai Funi (strength and love in harmony).
Historical Context: The manual details the history of Shorinji Kempo, including its founding in 1947 and the mission to develop individuals who can contribute to a peaceful society.
Technical Syllabus: It provides descriptions and terminology for over 600 techniques. Goho (Hard Methods): Strikes, kicks, and blocks. Juho (Soft Methods): Throws, pins, and joint locks.
Seiho (Correcting Methods): Acupressure and body alignment techniques.
Etiquette and Dojo Manners: Instruction on zazen (seated meditation), kiai, and proper conduct within the training hall. Accessing Shorinji Kempo Manuals (PDF)
While the official Tokuhon is typically available to registered members through the World Shorinji Kempo Organization (WSKO), several official curriculum guides and related instructional materials are available online for public reference: SHORINJI KEMPO VALUE-LEVEL-UP GUIDELINE - 少林寺拳法
The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is the primary textbook and spiritual guide for practitioners (Kenshi) of Shorinji Kempo, a martial art founded by Doshin So in 1947. Unlike a standard manual focusing only on physical strikes, the Tokuhon serves as a bridge between the physical techniques (Kempo) and the philosophical doctrine of Kongo Zen. Understanding the Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon shorinji kempo tokuhon pdf top
The term "Tokuhon" roughly translates to "reader" or "textbook." In Shorinji Kempo, it specifically refers to the official manual that outlines the philosophy, history, and basic terminology required for grading examinations.
The Trinity of Training: The Tokuhon emphasizes that Shorinji Kempo is a holistic system divided into self-defence, mental training, and health.
Ken Zen Ichinyo: A core principle found in the text is that the "body and mind are one". This teaches that neither physical prowess nor mental clarity is sufficient on its own.
Riki Ai Funi: Another major pillar is "Strength and Love in Harmony". The Tokuhon instructs that justice without strength is powerless, but strength without justice is merely violence. Key Sections of the Manual
A standard Shorinji Kempo manual or curriculum document typically includes: Shorinji Kempo Curriculum for Yudansha - 少林寺拳法
The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is the core instructional textbook for practitioners (kenshi) of Shorinji Kempo, a Japanese martial art founded by Doshin So in 1947. This manual serves as a definitive guide for both the physical techniques and the underlying philosophical principles that define the art. The Evolution and Purpose of the
The current Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon replaced the older Fukudoku-hon following an organizational restructure. Its primary purpose is to provide a standardized educational system that ensures the founder's (Kaiso's) will and teachings are accurately transmitted across more than 39 countries worldwide.
Secular Focus: While the original Fukudoku-hon included direct teachings on Kongo Zen and Buddhism, the modern Tokuhon has removed these specific religious segments to be more universally accessible. Those seeking the spiritual/religious roots can refer to the companion Kongo Zen Tokuhon. The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is the primary textbook
Educational Goal: It is designed to nurture "well-rounded, powerful individuals" who can benefit society. Core Philosophical Pillars
A central theme of the Tokuhon is that Shorinji Kempo is a gyo—a discipline or "way of life"—rather than just a sport. It highlights several key principles:
Ken Zen Ichinyo (Unity of Body and Mind): The belief that physical training and mental/spiritual cultivation are inseparable.
Riki Ai Funi (Strength and Love in Harmony): Teaching that compassion without strength is ineffective, while strength without compassion is mere violence.
Jikko Kakuritsu (Self-Establishment): Encouraging practitioners to develop a self that can be relied upon, focusing on self-control rather than defeating others. Technical Framework
The manual outlines a massive curriculum of over 600 techniques, categorized into three main systems: Books - Svenska Shorinjikempoförbundet
It covers the definition, structure, and philosophical importance of the text.
Week 1: Basics, stance, footwork, ukemi practice (20–30 min/day).
Week 2: Add basic strikes and blocks; pair drills (30–40 min/day).
Week 3: Introduce simple joint locks and throws; start slow kata (35–45 min/day).
Week 4: Combine techniques into short embu sequences; evaluate and refine (40–60 min/day). Suggested 4-Week Beginner Plan (sample) Week 1: Basics,
The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is far more than a technique manual; it is the doctrinal foundation of the art. While many online searches seek a “free PDF,” respecting the Tokuhon as a copyrighted, sacred teaching tool aligns with the very hogo (protecting the dharma) principles taught in Shorinji Kempo. For authentic study, one must acquire it through official channels.
Many low-quality PDFs cut off the glossary (Eigo-Honyaku) or the Kongo Zen chants. A "top" version retains the full Kaiso's philosophy section in the back.
If you are a practitioner:
The Tokuhon fulfills three primary functions:
Unlike many internet blogs or YouTube tutorials, the Tokuhon is official. Its status as the "top" reference comes from several key factors:
For any serious practitioner, the Tokuhon is as essential as their Gi. It is the manual that transforms physical repetition into genuine understanding.
If your search for a digital Tokuhon hits a dead end, do not despair. The "Top" resources for Shorinji Kempo go beyond a single file.