Self defense and personal development for people of all ages and backgrounds

What is Shorinji Kempo?

Founded in Japan in 1947 by Doshin So, Shorinji Kempo is a way of nurturing people. It is a unique combination of philosophy, mastery of techniques (self defence), and an educational system.

While developing themselves, students also support each other, learning teachings on how to live happily together and techniques which strengthen them and allow them to grow with their fellow partners. These techniques and teachings are intertwined, and are taught in combination through Shorinji Kempo’s educational system.

A discipline that develops individuals and supplies three benefits

Shorinji Kempo does not take games of victory as its goal. When individuals become obsessed with victory and defeat, they tend to arrive at the wrong-headed idea that “so long as I am the stronger, that’s good enough”― and even start taking pleasure in the misfortunes of others. Shorinji Kempo was originated by Kaiso, Doshin So, as a simultaneously physical and mental method of practice for building character, a method through which one can gain three benefits: self-dence, spiritual cultivation, and improved health. Through techniques, one gains self confidence, courage, and vigor. One gains a spirit of compassion and a sense of justice. To cultivate such a person of true strength, Shorinji Kempo was created as a discipline, a gyo.