03/11/2023
"Welcome to the Kobukan Kobudo Renmei Europe page.
Kobukan is an esteemed organization dedicated to the preservation, transmission, and cultivation of the profound wisdom inherent in authentic, time-honored martial arts. Our commitment extends not only to the cherished traditions but also to the pragmatic application of self-defense and the holistic refinement of one's physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions.
The Kobukan Kobudo Renmei carries a noble mission, one that aspires to quench the thirst of those earnest individuals yearning for the invaluable knowledge encompassed within the Takamatsu Den martial art systems. We aim to empower them to evolve into the most accomplished martial artists they can possibly become. Through their dedication, they will not only take pride in their personal growth and achievements but also carry forth this legacy of worth, deeply rooted in the Butoku—martial arts virtues of self-discipline, respect, honor, and camaraderie.
The Kobukan Kobudo Renmei is unwaveringly committed to offering its students and members an authentic pathway. This pathway is designed not only to foster mastery of physical techniques but, in due course, to qualify practitioners for licensure. For those who are inclined to teach, we offer a route to becoming esteemed instructors in their own right, capable of disseminating the profound traditions of Budo.
Our approach encompasses a tapestry of international seminars, designed to excite and engage, building enduring friendships and providing comprehensive syllabi. Our special instructor courses and teacher training seminars, led by seasoned veterans of the Kobukan organization, are designed to empower instructors to successfully guide their own dojos. These dojos, licensed and supported by instructors who have triumphed on this path, are destined to illuminate the journey for those who wish to traverse it.
Our ultimate aim is to assist those students who, through dedicated effort and wholehearted participation, stand to gain immeasurably on a personal level. These individuals will not only progress as martial artists but, in time, will share their knowledge with others.
The organization and its members labor tirelessly to nurture only the authentic, the positive, the honest, and the supportive. Our culture, steeped in the time-honored discipline of ancient martial arts, is crafted to cultivate true "Buyu" martial friendships—friendships that endure, support, and stand as testament to the sincere dedication of each individual on their journey toward becoming traditional Budoka.
The founder and Chief Instructor of the organisation, Kancho James Wright, is among the most highly acclaimed and respected figures, having trained to the highest levels and in many of the world's most coveted traditional systems. Having dedicated his life to the study of martial arts and having resided and trained in Japan for over 35 years, he embodies the quintessential martial artist—a formidable practitioner guided by principles and honor, his expertise is unparalleled.
Additionally, Kyoshi Troy Wideman, a co-founder from Canada, is a holder of the 6th dan in Jujutsu and Ninpo. He has acheived a list so long in professional tactical combat and possesses ranks in multiple traditional systems such as Takagi Yoshin Ryu , Kohtoh tyu etc. He has been an ardent martial artist for over four decades, teaching and traveling across the globe.
Renshi Instructor Mark Bramble, the USA Coordinator, brings his wealth of experience as a 4th Dan in Jujutsu and Ninpo, alongside his own Shoden Menkyo credentials. As a professional in computer marketing, he has traveled extensively to study and share his insights with some of the world's most distinguished martial arts masters.
Serving as the European Coordinator, Kyoshi Instructor Stuart Allison, a 6th Dan in Ninpo and Jujutsu, holds Shoden Menkyo and Okuden levels in multiple traditional systems. With over four decades dedicated to martial arts, he has traveled extensively to both study and teach alongside venerable martial arts teachers worldwide. He operates a full-time Martial Arts Training Centre, teaching multiple age groups and running teacher training courses, his dojo is now the Kobukan European Training Centre based in the UK.
We look forward to one day welcoming all students who harbor a fervent desire to study these exceptional and authentic martial arts. Our mission is to accompany you on this exciting journey, nurturing a culture that celebrates the profound virtues of Budo. Ganbatte—let us forge ahead together.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you seek further information on what the Kobukan has to offer. Regardless of your past martial arts experiences, we hope this journey will bring a fresh perspective. It doesn't discard your invaluable prior knowledge; rather, it builds upon it, fostering new or rekindled friendships, ultimately illuminating the path ahead."