Kobukan United States Shibu
About The Kobukan
The Kobukan Kobudo Renmei exists to preserve authentic Japanese martial traditions while making them more accessible through transparent instruction, structured progression, and a global community of dedicated practitioners.
The Kobukan Purpose
Preserving Authentic Japanese Martial Traditions for Future Generations
The Kobukan Kobudo Renmei is an international organization dedicated to the preservation, practice, and teaching of classical Japanese martial traditions, including Japanese Jujutsu and Ninpo. Our mission extends beyond teaching individual techniques—we are committed to preserving complete traditional martial systems and ensuring they continue to be studied, understood, and responsibly transmitted to future generations.
We fulfill this mission through structured progression, direct instruction, and a commitment to transparency. Students are encouraged to develop not only practical skill, but also the historical understanding and martial principles that give each tradition its meaning. Rather than preserving these systems behind unnecessary barriers, the Kobukan provides a clear educational pathway that supports lifelong growth while remaining faithful to the original traditions.
Whether training in Japan, the United States, or one of our international branches, every student shares the same educational philosophy and commitment to authentic transmission.
Kobukan
Leadership
Led from Japan by James Wright Kancho
International organization with regional Shibu
Direct guidance from authentic source traditions
Our
Values
Preserve authentic traditions
Teach openly and responsibly
Develop character alongside skill
Our
Community
Students across multiple countries
Supportive, respectful training culture
Shared standards. Shared traditions.
Meet The Founder
James Wright Kancho
James Wright Kancho serves as the head of the Kobukan Kobudo Renmei, providing leadership and guidance to affiliated Shibu, instructors, and students around the world. Through decades of dedicated study and teaching, he has remained committed to preserving authentic Japanese Jujutsu, Ninpo, and traditional martial arts while ensuring they are passed on with integrity and purpose.
Under his leadership, the Kobukan has developed a structured curriculum that supports students from beginner through advanced levels while maintaining a direct connection to traditional Japanese martial principles. His emphasis on technical proficiency, disciplined practice, and continual learning has helped shape the organization's standards and culture.
Beyond teaching techniques, Kancho's vision is to build an international community of dedicated practitioners who value authentic instruction, personal growth, and the responsible transmission of traditional martial arts to future generations.
A Living Tradition
We preserve the martial traditions of Japan so they remain alive and relevant for future generations.
We develop more than skill practitioners. We build strong character, discipline, and a deeper understanding of self.
We create the next generation of instructors and leaders who will carry these traditions forward with integrity and purpose.
United States Headquarters
The United States Shibu serves as the official regional headquarters for the Kobukan Kobudo Renmei throughout the country.
Working directly with Honbu in Japan, the USA Shibu supports affiliated instructors, develops new training groups, organizes regional and national serminars, and expands opportunities for students to study authentic Japanese martial traditions, regardless of location.
Our mission is to expand access to authentic Kobukan training while preserving the standards, curriculum, and traditions entrusted to the United States Shibu by Honbu.
United States Shibu-cho
Mark Bramble serves as the United States Shibu-cho, working directly with James Wright Kancho to support the growth and development of the Kobukan throughout the United States.
He supports affiliated instructors, Study Groups, seminars, online education, and national initiatives, while helping ensure the curriculum and standards are consistently maintained.
His focus is helping students gain access to authentic Japanese martial traditions while building a strong, supportive national community.
