In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Grandmaster Masaaki Hatsumi, inheritor of nine martial arts schools and a lineage spanning over 1,000 years, authored a series of newsletters to serve as a useful guide and reference for maturing martial arts students around the world. The articles contained within Tetsuzan ("Iron Mountain") are diverse: interviews with "The Last Combat Ninja" Soke Toshitsugu Takamatsu, the symbolic back-story of the TV show Jiraiya, examples of utilizing exotic ninja weapons and techniques, and, perhaps most aptly, the importance of correctly studying the Bujinkan basics.Containing a wealth of illustrated information, enlightening interviews and historical insights, Tetsuzan is as relevant for understanding true Budo today as it was during the era of its original publication. In the subtleties of the writing, an underlying timeless constant can be found, guiding all martial artists onto the true path of the Bushi.
About the Author: Masaaki Hatsumi graduated from Meiji University in Tokyo, with a major in theater studies, and osteopathic medicine. Soon after graduation he opened a bone clinic in his home town and his practice continued on a steady basis until about 1990 when his travel and movie schedule seemed to take all his time. Grandmaster Hatsumi is the author of over a dozen books and more than 50 videos on the martial traditions of the Bujinkan Dojo. He has been featured in almost every magazine relating to the subject in Japan, and many others throughout the world. He has authored countless magazine and newspaper articles on the martial arts, ninjutsu, and on "how to live a natural life." He wrote, directed and acted in 50 episodes of the Japanese television series "Jiraya." He acts as a consultant for various plays and movies to ensure that what is being portrayed is done correctly and with historical accuracy. Dr. Hatsumi's home displays an elaborate collection of awards, certificates, letters of friendship, and honorary titles from some of the most elite organizations in the world. In Japan, Dr. Hatsumi is also sought out as a speaker and television personality. He is past Chairman of the International Division of the Japan Literary Artist's Club. He is also an accomplished musician and singer, playing guitar and ukulele for several years in a Hawaiian band. Masaaki Hatsumi still teaches at The "Honbu Dojo" (Main training hall known as 'Bujinden' or Divine Palace) in Noda City, Japan. He is married to wife, Mariko, a famous Japanese dance teacher.