The Japanese Archery Technique
Kyūdō, the Japanese martial art of archery, is distinguished by a profound combination of technique, mental discipline, and cultural tradition.
Unlike modern sport archery, in kyūdō, the shot is not solely focused on hitting the target. The essential aspect is to correctly execute a technical sequence known as hassetsu (八節), which means the eight regulated phases of the shot.
This method has been transmitted for centuries within traditional Japanese schools and is currently standardized by organizations such as the All Nippon Kyudo Federation, which regulates kyūdō instruction in Japan and in numerous international dojos.
Hassetsu constitutes the technical foundation of the discipline and is taught uniformly to all practitioners.
The Origin of the Hassetsu Technique
Modern kyūdō originated from ancient kyūjutsu, the martial art of the bow used by samurai warriors in feudal Japan.
During the Japanese medieval periods, especially between the 12th and 16th centuries, the Japanese longbow or yumi was one of the most important weapons on the battlefield.
Over time and with the decline of the military use of the bow after the introduction of firearms in the 16th century, archery evolved into a more ceremonial, philosophical, and educational practice.
In this context, the technical structure of hassetsu was consolidated, organizing the shot into a precise sequence aimed at achieving bodily balance, mental control, and harmony in movement.
The Eight Phases of Hassetsu
The kyūdō shooting technique consists of eight clearly defined stages. Each has a specific function within the shooting process.
1. Ashibumi (足踏み) – Foot Placement
The shot begins with foot placement.
The archer stands facing the target and separates their feet, forming a line perpendicular to the target.
The distance between them is usually approximately shoulder-width.
This base provides stability and balance for all subsequent movement.
2. Dozukuri (胴造り) – Body Alignment
In this phase, the complete body posture is adjusted.
The archer straightens their back, stabilizes the pelvis, and relaxes the shoulders.
The goal is to create a firm and balanced body structure that allows the bow to be drawn without unnecessary tension.
3. Yugamae (弓構え) – Bow Preparation
Here, the technical preparation is carried out before raising the bow.
It includes three actions: correctly placing the arrow on the string, adjusting the hand position on the bow, and adopting the appropriate grip posture.
This phase ensures that the shot can be executed with precision.
4. Uchiokoshi (打起こし) – Raising the Bow
The archer raises the bow above the head with a fluid and controlled movement.
This elevation marks the transition between preparation and the beginning of drawing the bow.
5. Hikiwake (引分け) – Drawing the Bow
In this stage, the bow is progressively drawn, separating the arms to opposite sides while the string approaches the face.
The movement must be uniform, balanced, and smooth.
6. Kai (会) – Full Draw
Kai represents the moment of maximum tension of the bow.
The archer maintains a complete and stable posture for a few moments.
This phase is fundamental because it symbolizes the union between body, breath, and mind before release.
7. Hanare (離れ) – Release
The string is released naturally, allowing the arrow to shoot out.
In kyūdō, release is not considered a forced gesture, but a natural expansion of accumulated tension.
8. Zanshin (残心) – Lingering Spirit
After the shot, the archer maintains their posture and concentration.
Zanshin reflects the mental continuity of the shot, even after the arrow has left the bow.
It is an expression of mindfulness and self-control.
The True Objective of Kyūdō Shooting
Unlike other forms of sport archery, in traditional kyūdō, hitting the center of the target is not the primary objective. The essential aspect is to correctly execute hassetsu, maintaining harmony between technique, breath, and mental state.
When the process is carried out correctly, the result—whether hitting the target or not—is considered a natural consequence of the balance achieved during the shot. Therefore, hassetsu is not just a technique, but a method of physical and spiritual discipline that defines the essence of kyūdō.
