Shorinji Kempo Curriculum ((free)) May 2026

Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese martial art and philosophical system founded in 1947 by Doshin So. Unlike sports-oriented martial arts, the Shorinji Kempo curriculum is designed as a Gyo—a discipline for developing individuals—balancing physical technique with Zen Buddhist philosophy.

Part 6: How the Curriculum Differs from Other Martial Arts

If you are coming from another art, here is what will surprise you about the Shorinji Kempo curriculum: shorinji kempo curriculum

4. Hokei (Forms) – 5% of training

Unlike the solo Kata of Karate, Shorinji Kempo Hokei are almost all two-person drills. Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese martial art and

Key Philosophy: Ken Zen Ichinyo—the idea that the body and mind are one. You aren't just training your fists; you are training your spirit. Climbing the Stairs: Yellow to Brown (5th to 1st Kyu) Hokei (Forms) – 5% of training Unlike the