Samurai Master Brings Ancient Traditions to Lengenwang
Samurai master Ōtsuka Ryūnosuke, born Markus Lösch, has chosen Lengenwang as the new seat of his traditional Samurai school, Hokushin Ittō-Ryū Hyōhō. The move, from Munich in 2025, has sparked curiosity, but the reasons behind this decision remain unclear.
Ōtsuka's school, one of the three most renowned Samurai schools in Japan by 1830, now has branches worldwide. The master, who initially planned to be a writer, took up Japanese martial arts like Kendō and Iaidō. He teaches Samurai traditions such as sword fighting, meditation, and courtyard etiquette at his Lengenwang farm.
Ōtsuka's journey began at 18 when he emigrated to Japan to learn the authentic Samurai tradition. He was later adopted by his master and took on the family name. Now, he plans to transform his garden into an 'outdoor dojo', build a Japanese shrine, and renovate the old barn for training and traditional baths. He also intends to hold Japanese street festivals, Matsuri, to foster community and respect.
Ōtsuka's move to Lengenwang, while shrouded in mystery, signals a significant step for his school. His plans to integrate traditional Samurai practices with local culture and community events suggest a commitment to preserving and sharing these ancient traditions in a new setting.
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