Each year Hatsumi-sensei chooses a theme to be studied over the following 12 months.

This theme is usually a particular school or weapon which is given special attention during the year in addition to normal training.

With nine different schools of martial arts to study, having a theme like this helps ensure a common thread in the training around the world.

The yearly theme is a good opportunity to look at one aspect of the Bujinkan in detail and is often the topic of weekend seminars held throughout the year.

Recent Themes

• 2009 No Theme / Focus on "Sainou Tamashii Utsuwa" - Ability/Talent, Soul/Spirit, Capacity/Container. Study Rope+Sword
• 2008 Togakure Ryu Ninpo Taijutsu
• 2007 Kukishin Ryu & Kuki Taisho
• 2006 Shinden Fudu Ryu & Shizen
• 2005 Gyokko Ryu Kosshijutsu (Bo and Tachi)
• 2004 Daishou JuitaiJutsu (Roppou-Kuji no Biken)
• 2003 Juppo Sessho
• 2002 Takagi Yoshin-ryu
• 2001 Gyokko-ryu
• 2000 Koppo-jutsu
• 1999 Kukishinden-ryu
• 1998 Shinden Fudo-ryu
• 1997 Jo-jutsu
• 1996 Ken-jutsu
• 1995 Naginata / Daisho Sabaki Gata
• 1994 Yari / Kodachi
• 1993 Bo-jutsu
• Previous themes included Kusari-Fundo, Hanbo and Jutte