Shingitai – 心技体 – The Heart of Our Art

In Daito-ryu, Shingitai is not just a slogan—it is the essence of what we study and embody.

Shin (心) – The mind and spirit: calm, intentional, sincere.

Gi (技) – The technique: subtle, refined, efficient.

Tai (体) – The body: structure, posture, responsiveness.

When these three elements are unified, the art becomes seamless. This is not merely about combative effectiveness—it is about personal transformation.

Inoue Yusuke, Menkyo Kaiden Shihan and successor to Horikawa Kodo Menkyo Kaiden Shihan, emphasized this principle in the title of every one of his writings. In the internal Kodokai newsletters, he titled his series of essays:
“Mind, Technique, and Body in the Northern Lands” (北辺の地に「心・技・体」), a poetic yet direct call to never lose sight of the foundation that underpins all true Daito-ryu. 

The phrase ‘Mind, Technique, and Body in the Northern Lands’ speaks to the profound truth that Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu was not only founded but deeply cultivated in the rugged northern frontier of Hokkaido—a land whose harsh climate and sincere people shaped the art’s discipline, character, and enduring spirit.


Daito-ryu is not just something we practice.
It is something we strive to embody.

心技体
A path of unity. A life of study. 
A tradition to honor.

Writing by Donald Q.