Tuttle Publishing Secrets of the Japanese Art of Warfare: From the School of Certain Victory

I AM FASCINATED BY THE JAPANESE AND LOVED THIS BOOK.

Item in new state of condition and as describedFast shipment

I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing several of Thomas Cleary's other books on (Samurai Wisdom, Soul of the Samurai, Code of the Samurai, The Art of War) Asian warrior philosophies. This volume focuses on the translation of Yamamoto Kansuke's (1501-1561) "Secrets of Japanese Art of Warfare." This book covers the strategy and philosophical principles of winning in battle. There are numerous illustrations (drawings) showing the techniques and strategy one should use during a physical confrontation.This text is organized into ten parts, but some of them are very short sections. Part one introduces the sources of the arts of warfare and numerous other topics. Part two explains wrestling and boxing forms. Part three teaches the various swordsmanship techniques and tactics. Part four deals with the use of the pole (Stick, staff). The basic use of the "king of weapons" the spear is covered in part five. Part six very briefly covers archery. Part seven mentions the role firearms play in the art of war. Part eight deals with the mind (Human Advantages) and strategies to use in various combat situations. Part nine explains the advantages of terrain and the final part covers the advantages of the sky.In conclusion, if you are into the martial arts and the Asian philosophy of war you will enjoy this book. Keep in mind that even though there are numerous illustrations, you cannot really learn how to perform the techniques by merely reading this book.Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Haiku Moments: How to read, write and enjoy haiku.

Do not be mislead by the title. This fine annotated and illustrated text is a rare and valuable guide to individual combat with a variety of weapons, and even without. It is not a manual on "warfare" by armies. There are the usual stances, but also many unusual ones, each with commentary about their almost rocks/paper/scissors relationship. The book also contains rare tactical advise about initiative , terrain, and special conditions, such as night. This is a great supplement to martial arts training, especially kenjutsu or kendo. The authors annotations about translation or cultural references are very commendable. Short, but enlightening to martial artists and historians. Despite the School's name, it cannot not guarantee certain victory, but teaches many points that can improve one's skills to improve one's chances! A fitting and much more rare companion to the Book of Five Rings.

This book gives a detail analysis of Japanese war tactics through the application of the sword with Japanese terms , excellent read.