TETSUJI ISHIZUKA
Tetsuji Ishizuka (哲二石塚) was a revered Japanese martial artist and a pivotal figure in the Bujinkan organization. Born on February 22, 1948, in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture, he dedicated his life to the study and preservation of traditional Japanese martial arts.
Ishizuka's passion for martial arts began early, encompassing disciplines such as judo, karate, aikido, kendo, and Shorinji Kenpo. A shoulder injury sustained during a judo match in high school led him to a local bone clinic, where he met Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi. This encounter marked the start of a lifelong mentorship under Hatsumi, the founder of the Bujinkan and successor to Toshitsugu Takamatsu. Ishizuka became one of Hatsumi's earliest and most dedicated students, commencing his ninjutsu training in 1964.
In 1971, Ishizuka received Menkyo Kaiden (full transmission) in Kukishin Ryū, and by 1978, he had achieved the same in all eight traditions studied within the Bujinkan. His mastery and dedication were recognized in 2019 when Hatsumi appointed him as the 29th Sōke (headmaster) of Gyokko Ryū, one of the oldest and most influential schools in the Bujinkan system.
Ishizuka was instrumental in introducing ninjutsu to international audiences. Fluent in English, he taught numerous foreign students who travelled to Japan seeking authentic training. His teachings emphasized the importance of kihon (fundamentals) and the philosophical aspects of budō. In 2016, his contributions were nationally recognized when he received the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays, from the Emperor of Japan.
He authored "Gyokko Ryū: Legacy & Techniques", a comprehensive text that encapsulates his deep understanding of the art. He continued to teach at his dojo in Noda until his passing.
Beyond martial arts, Ishizuka served his community as a firefighter, eventually becoming Chief of the Noda City Fire Department. His exemplary service earned him the highest honour from the Tokyo Firefighters Organization.
On March 15th 2025, Ishizuka Tetsuji passed away at the age of 77 after a prolonged battle with lung cancer. His death marked the end of an era for the Bujinkan community, but his teachings and legacy continue to inspire martial artists worldwide.
Ishizuka's passion for martial arts began early, encompassing disciplines such as judo, karate, aikido, kendo, and Shorinji Kenpo. A shoulder injury sustained during a judo match in high school led him to a local bone clinic, where he met Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi. This encounter marked the start of a lifelong mentorship under Hatsumi, the founder of the Bujinkan and successor to Toshitsugu Takamatsu. Ishizuka became one of Hatsumi's earliest and most dedicated students, commencing his ninjutsu training in 1964.
In 1971, Ishizuka received Menkyo Kaiden (full transmission) in Kukishin Ryū, and by 1978, he had achieved the same in all eight traditions studied within the Bujinkan. His mastery and dedication were recognized in 2019 when Hatsumi appointed him as the 29th Sōke (headmaster) of Gyokko Ryū, one of the oldest and most influential schools in the Bujinkan system.
Ishizuka was instrumental in introducing ninjutsu to international audiences. Fluent in English, he taught numerous foreign students who travelled to Japan seeking authentic training. His teachings emphasized the importance of kihon (fundamentals) and the philosophical aspects of budō. In 2016, his contributions were nationally recognized when he received the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays, from the Emperor of Japan.
He authored "Gyokko Ryū: Legacy & Techniques", a comprehensive text that encapsulates his deep understanding of the art. He continued to teach at his dojo in Noda until his passing.
Beyond martial arts, Ishizuka served his community as a firefighter, eventually becoming Chief of the Noda City Fire Department. His exemplary service earned him the highest honour from the Tokyo Firefighters Organization.
On March 15th 2025, Ishizuka Tetsuji passed away at the age of 77 after a prolonged battle with lung cancer. His death marked the end of an era for the Bujinkan community, but his teachings and legacy continue to inspire martial artists worldwide.
