We are a group training in Japanese kobudo, or old style martial arts, in Harold’s Cross, Dublin, with a focus on practical movement, balance, timing and adaptability rather than sport or competition. We are part of the Bujinkan Dōjō organisation, headquartered in Noda City, Japan. 

The formal name of the art we practice is Bujinkan Budō Taijutsu, sometimes also referred to as Ninpō Taijutsu.

Training covers both unarmed and armed disciplines, including:


• Taijutsu / Jūjutsu – unarmed movement, grappling, and striking

• Kenjutsu – long and short sword

• Bōjutsu – staff (3ft, 4ft, and 6ft)

• Naginatajutsu – polearm

• Sōjutsu – spear

• Kusarijutsu / Hayanawa – chain and rope

• Shurikenjutsu – thrown blades


The material we study is drawn from nine classical Japanese martial traditions preserved within the Bujinkan Dōjō, including Togakure Ryū, Takagi Yōshin Ryū, Kukishin Ryū, Gyokkō Ryū, Kotō Ryū, and Shinden Fudō Ryū.

Our group was founded in Trinity College Dublin in 1998, and after training in several locations, has been based in Harold’s Cross since 2011.

Today, in addition to the main dojo in Harold’s Cross Dublin, there are also branches of the Bujinkan Namikai in Dublin City Centre, Kerry, Limerick, Cork and in Vicenza and Torino in Italy.


We are members of the Irish Martial Arts Commission, and all instructors are Garda vetted and first aid certified, as well as fully insured and qualified to teach through the Bujinkan Hombu Dojo in Japan.