Learn Jujutsu & Ninpo Online with James Wright kancho

Kobukan University: Your Gateway to Online Japanese Martial Arts

Train live with Kancho, or access his lessons through Kobukan Online University to learn Jujutsu and Ninpo from anywhere in the world.

Begin or Continue Your Martial Arts Journey — From Anywhere.

Choose from 4 Access Levels to Kobukan Online University

SHOKYU ACCESS

Perfect for those new to martial arts who want to ease into training at their own pace. Ideal for individuals exploring the foundations or considering starting a Study Group, Shokyu Access does not require Kobukan membership unless you choose to test.

COMPLETE KYU ACCESS

Designed for martial artists with prior experience or current Kobukan members seeking additional structure and support. This level is also well-suited for Group Leaders looking to sharpen their skills and deepen their understanding.

ADVANCED ACCESS

Built for committed martial artists ready to dive deeper into Kobukan training. Ideal for aspiring instructors or advanced students preparing for leadership roles within the organization.

ADVANCED+ ACCESS

Reserved for those pursuing long-term mastery, this tier is tailored to experienced martial artists seeking complete access—including Kancho’s live Zoom classes—and a direct path to refinement at the highest level.

Click Here to Compare Access Levels

“Having direct access to train with James Wright Kancho has been a gamechanger for my training!” -Mark B.

“Words cannot describe how happy I am to be part of Kobukan.” -Michael A.

“Grateful for the learning and the Bugei, martial arts… as well as the demonstration of gambatte and fudoshin. Thank you…” -Neil C.

“I’ve continued to be surrounded by absolutely stellar leadership, top-notch instruction, and just really, really talented martial artists.” -Joy B.

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Why Train in Jujutsu & Ninpo Online with the Kobukan?

The Kobukan Kobudo Renmei is committed to preserving and promoting the traditional Japanese martial arts of Jujutsu and Ninpo Bugei, making authentic training accessible worldwide. Whether you are new to martial arts or a lifelong practitioner, the Kobukan provides an unparalleled opportunity to train in these historic disciplines. Learn more about Kobukan training here.

With live Zoom classes taught by James Wright Kancho and a vast library of recorded lessons available through the Kobukan Online University, students receive direct instruction from a world-renowned martial arts expert. Training online allows practitioners to develop authentic skills, refine techniques, and deepen their understanding of classical Japanese martial arts—no matter where they are.

Train on Your Own Schedule

✅ Learn Anytime, Anywhere – Access on-demand videos and train at your own pace, no matter where you live.

✅ Follow a Structured Path – Our system ensures step-by-step learning, guiding you from fundamentals to advanced techniques.

Enhance Your Martial Arts Knowledge

✅ Get Direct Instruction from Kancho – Gain insights, corrections, and details straight from Kancho James Wright.

✅ Supplement Your Dojo Training – Use online lessons to reinforce techniques you practice at a local Kobukan dojo.

Learn with a Global Martial Arts Community

✅ Join Live Zoom Classes – Train in real-time, ask questions, and receive instant feedback.

✅ Connect with Other Practitioners – Be part of an engaged, worldwide community of martial artists.

Earn Recognized Certifications

✅ Progress and Get Certified – As you improve, earn official rank certifications recognized by the Kobukan Kobudo Renmei.

✅ Perfect for All Skill Levels – Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, our curriculum adapts to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a training partner?

Some early levels can be practiced solo, but having a training partner becomes important as you progress to better understand timing, distance, and application. Many students train safely with a family member or trusted friend. We offer as much flexibility as possible without compromising standards.

Are there test fees?

Yes. When you’re eligible to test for kyu rank, a separate fee applies to support the multi-step evaluation and certification process.

Online Kyu tests are $75 and include:

Video review by a certified black belt instructor
Final evaluation by Kancho James Wright
Personalized written feedback
An official certificate if the test is passed

Students training under a recognized Kobukan instructor should not use the online testing process. Instead, they are expected to test directly through their teacher. In those cases, testing fees are determined at the dojo level.

Testing plays an important role in upholding the standards and traditions of the organization. Each submission receives careful, personalized attention to ensure that rank advancement reflects real growth and ability.

Weapons and black belt (dan-level) ranks are handled separately, either directly through Honbu Dojo or in coordination with the student’s instructor.

Can I cancel my membership anytime?

Yes. All online training tiers are billed monthly and can be canceled at any time with no long-term commitment.

Can I earn rank through Kobukan University?

Yes. Students who train consistently and submit evaluation videos (or attend live events) are eligible for rank advancement under the Kobukan Kobudo Renmei. To help online students maintain a high standard, each Kyu test is reviewed by both a certified black belt instructor and Kancho, with personalized feedback provided. There is an additional fee for online evaluations to support this process.

What equipment do I need?

To begin Shokyu training, all you need is space to move and a willingness to learn. Comfortable clothing is fine to start. As you progress, students wear a black keiko-gi (training uniform), tabi or black socks, a t-shirt with patch on the left chest, and the appropriate belt. The most important thing is to begin—everything else can be added as you grow.