Hidden Mountain Martial Arts, established in 2010, is a dedicated dojo teaching Yamagakure Ryu Bujutsu, a unique blend of Aikibujutsu, Jujutsu, and Kenpo. Our name reflects the style we teach, emphasizing the hidden wisdom within martial arts practice.

Located in the DMV area of Northern Virginia, we are intentionally designed to be small and simple. This intimate setting allows us to focus on providing distraction-free, personalized instruction that mirrors the concept of Mushin (empty mind). We welcome students aged 17 and up, creating an adult-oriented learning environment.

Our approach emphasizes tradition, hard work, and productive learning. We strive to make each lesson effective and memorable, reflecting our founder's passion for teaching and commitment to martial arts excellence.

Our School's Mission

This institution operates as a traditional Japanese martial arts school dedicated to authentic cultural education and character development. We maintain rigorous academic and training standards that reflect centuries of proven educational methodology.

Educational Environment

We are a place of learning, not customer service. Students enter our program to receive traditional Japanese martial arts education within its complete cultural context. This education requires:

• Dedicated study and consistent effort from every student

• Adherence to established curriculum without modification for personal comfort

• Respect for traditional teaching methods that have proven effective over generations

• Commitment to personal growth through disciplined practice

Curriculum Standards

Our curriculum has been developed through generations of refinement and represents authentic Japanese martial arts education. We do not modify, abbreviate, or eliminate curriculum elements to accommodate individual preferences or comfort levels. Students who cannot fully participate in our complete educational program should seek instruction elsewhere.

Student Conduct and Environment

Mutual Respect: All students are expected to treat fellow students, instructors, and visitors with respect and courtesy. Our dojo is a place of learning where everyone deserves to train in a supportive environment.

Zero Tolerance Policy: We will not tolerate discriminatory behavior, harassment, or disrespectful conduct from students, instructors, or observers based on gender, religion, ethnicity, sexuality, or any other personal characteristic. Such behavior will result in immediate removal from the school.

Training Focus: We maintain a focused training atmosphere conducive to serious study. Students are expected to conduct themselves with the dignity and respect appropriate to traditional martial arts education.

Closed Training Environment: Our regular training sessions are closed to observers to maintain focus and preserve the serious educational atmosphere required for traditional martial arts study. Observers are welcome during scheduled promotional ceremonies, planned family-inclusive events, and special demonstrations. Any exceptions require prior approval from the head instructor.

Enrollment and Admission

Selective Admission: We reserve the right to refuse enrollment to any prospective student for any reason. Not every individual is suited for traditional martial arts education.

Non-Discrimination: While we maintain selective admission standards based on suitability for traditional martial arts education, we do not discriminate based on gender, religion, ethnicity, sexuality, or lack thereof. Our standards are based solely on character, dedication, and ability to thrive in our educational environment.

Continued Enrollment: We reserve the right to disenroll any student whose attitude, effort, or behavior does not meet our educational standards. Student status is earned and maintained through proper conduct and dedication.

No Guaranteed Outcomes: Enrollment does not guarantee promotion, advancement, or specific achievements. Progress depends entirely on individual effort, character development, and meeting established standards.

Financial Philosophy

Student dues support the continued operation of our educational institution. Payment of dues does not constitute purchase of services and does not entitle students to:

• Special treatment or accommodations

• Guaranteed instruction time or individual attention

• Modified curriculum or alternative teaching methods

• Specific material benefits or acquisitions

• Grievance procedures regarding instructional decisions

Students pay dues to participate in our educational program under the terms and standards we establish.

Mutual Expectations

What we provide: Authentic Japanese martial arts education, traditional cultural instruction, and character development guidance according to proven historical methods.

What we expect: Students who are genuinely committed to learning, respectful of tradition, willing to meet our standards, and dedicated to personal growth through disciplined practice.

Prospective Student Consideration

Before applying for enrollment, carefully consider whether you are prepared to:

• Study within a traditional educational framework

• Accept instruction without modification requests

• Maintain consistent effort and respectful attitude

• Treat all members of our community with respect and dignity

• Understand that dues support education, not purchased services

• Recognize that continued enrollment depends on meeting our standards

• Train in a focused environment without outside observers

If you cannot commit to these educational principles, we respectfully suggest you seek instruction at a school better suited to your expectations.

This statement ensures mutual understanding of our educational mission and standards before enrollment begins.

At Hidden Mountain Martial Arts, we believe in developing well-rounded martial artists who understand not just the "what," but also the "how" and "why" of their practice. Our classes are structured to provide a balanced focus on physical training, academic learning, and cultural immersion:

1. Physical Training:

   • Calisthenics to build strength, flexibility, and endurance

   • Learning and practicing techniques to develop muscle memory and skill

2. Academic Learning:

   • Lecture portions using a whiteboard to explain concepts

   • In-depth exploration of the mechanics and physics behind techniques

3. Cultural and Historical Education:

   • Study of martial arts history

   • Japanese language skills

   • Cultural practices and traditions

This comprehensive approach ensures that students don't simply memorize movements, but gain a deep understanding of the principles underlying each technique and the cultural context from which they emerge. By teaching the mechanics, physics, and concepts behind the martial arts, along with their historical and cultural background, we empower our students to become true practitioners of the art in all its facets.

Our classes typically include:

• Warm-up and calisthenics

• Technique practice and drills

• Academic lecture and discussion

• Application of learned concepts

• Cultural and historical lessons

At Hidden Mountain Martial Arts, we believe that to truly master a martial art, one must understand and appreciate the culture and history from which it springs. Our program goes beyond physical techniques to provide a rich, immersive experience in Japanese culture and martial arts history:

1. Martial Arts History: Students delve into the rich tapestry of martial arts history, understanding the evolution of various styles and their historical context.

2. Japanese Culinary Arts: As part of our holistic approach, students learn to prepare traditional Japanese meals, understanding the connection between nutrition, culture, and martial practice.

3. Shinto Festivals: We participate in Shinto festivals, allowing students to experience firsthand the spiritual and cultural traditions that have long been intertwined with martial arts practice.

4. Language Skills: Basic Japanese language instruction is incorporated into our curriculum, helping students understand key terms and concepts in their original context.

5. Camaraderie Building: Regular events focused on martial arts and Japanese culture help build a strong, supportive community within our dojo.

This cultural and historical focus not only enriches our students' understanding of martial arts but also fosters a deep respect for the traditions and philosophies that underpin our practice. By immersing ourselves in these aspects, we aim to develop not just skilled martial artists, but also culturally aware and historically informed practitioners.

Hidden Mountain Martial Arts was founded in 2010 by Kyoshi Gabriel Wise in the New River Valley of Southwest Virginia. The school's journey mirrors the personal growth and experiences of its founder, evolving through years of dedicated practice and real-world application.

Key milestones in our history:

• 2010: Establishment of Hidden Mountain Martial Arts in Southwest Virginia

• 2010-2020: Development and refinement of the Yamagakure Ryu Bujutsu curriculum

• 2020: Relocation to Northern Virginia in the DMV area, expanding our reach and community

Throughout its history, Hidden Mountain Martial Arts has maintained a commitment to teaching practical, effective martial arts while honoring traditional values and techniques.

Central to our philosophy is a concept encapsulated in an ancient Chinese proverb: "It is better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war." This quote, often attributed to the Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu, resonates deeply with Kyoshi Wise and forms a cornerstone of our approach to martial arts.

Kyoshi Wise interprets this proverb as a call to cultivate peace through strength, wisdom, and compassion. He teaches that the true purpose of martial arts is not to prepare for conflict, but to build the skills, discipline, and character needed to prevent it.

"Our highest aim," Kyoshi Wise explains, "is to be like the warrior in the garden – capable of protecting ourselves and others, yet dedicated to nurturing peace and harmony in our communities. We train rigorously not because we anticipate violence, but because we wish to develop the strength of character, the clarity of mind, and the compassion of heart needed to resolve conflicts peacefully."

This philosophy permeates every aspect of our training:

1. Conflict Avoidance: We emphasize de-escalation techniques, situational awareness, and communication skills as our first line of defense.

2. Community Building: Our practice extends beyond the dojo, as we engage in community service and build relationships that foster mutual understanding and respect.

3. Inner Peace: Through meditation, mindfulness practices, and philosophical study, we cultivate inner calm and emotional regulation.

4. Physical Preparedness: While we hone our bodies and refine our techniques, we do so with the understanding that physical skills are a last resort, not a first response.

5. Ethical Development: We place great emphasis on developing a strong moral compass, integrity, and the wisdom to navigate complex ethical situations.

By embodying the concept of the "warrior in the garden," we strive to become individuals who have the strength to face any challenge, the wisdom to avoid unnecessary conflict, and the compassion to actively build peace in our communities. Our ultimate goal is not to be prepared for war, but to be so well-prepared in body, mind, and spirit that we can effectively maintain and expand our "gardens of peace."

This approach aligns with Kyoshi Wise's deeply held belief in non-violence and the power of martial arts to transform not just individuals, but entire communities. At Hidden Mountain Martial Arts, we're not just learning to defend ourselves; we're learning to become builders and protectors of peace in all aspects of our lives.

What is a Kamidana?

A kamidana (神棚) literally means "spirit shelf" or "god shelf" in Japanese. It is a small wooden shrine found in traditional Japanese spaces including homes, businesses, and training halls. In our dojo, the kamidana represents the spiritual and cultural heritage that shaped Japanese warrior culture for over a thousand years.

Sarutahiko no Okami: The Great Guide

Our kamidana houses an ofuda (御札) for Sarutahiko no Okami (猿田彦大神), a significant figure in Japanese culture known as the "Great Leader" or "Great Guide." An ofuda is a sacred paper talisman that, in traditional Japanese understanding, serves as a focal point for the kami's spiritual presence.

In traditional stories, Sarutahiko is depicted as a powerful figure with immense strength, wisdom, and the ability to guide others safely along difficult paths. Our ofuda comes annually from Tsubaki Grand Shrine in Japan, one of the oldest and most respected shrines dedicated to Sarutahiko no Okami.

Why Sarutahiko Matters to Martial Artists

Sarutahiko no Okami holds special meaning for martial arts training:

Guardian of Training: He has traditionally been invoked as a protector of those engaged in serious physical and spiritual development, watching over practitioners during their challenging training journey.

Symbol of Controlled Power: Sarutahiko represents the martial arts ideal of immense strength tempered by wisdom and responsibility - power with purpose and restraint.

The Teaching Tradition: As the "Great Guide," he embodies the importance of proper instruction and the precious lineage of knowledge passed from teacher to student through generations.

Protector of the Path: He is associated with clearing obstacles and providing protection during difficult endeavors, making him particularly relevant to the demanding journey of martial arts mastery.

Traditional Understanding and Daily Care

In traditional Japanese understanding, the kamidana with its ofuda serves as more than symbolic decoration. It is believed to be a place where the kami can "alight" - a spiritual presence that watches over and guides the activities in that space. This concept is central to understanding why Japanese martial artists historically maintained kamidana in their training halls.

Whether one personally believes in this spiritual presence or views it as cultural metaphor, understanding this traditional intention helps explain:

• Why kamidana require daily care and maintenance (which we provide)

• Why the acknowledgment is considered meaningful rather than empty ritual

• Why historical martial artists felt their training was watched over and guided

• Why the practice creates a sense of accountability and respect in training

This traditional understanding shaped how generations of martial artists approached their practice - with the awareness that their efforts were witnessed by protective forces, encouraging them to train with sincerity, respect, and dedication.

Historical Foundation of Martial Arts Culture

The kamidana tradition emerged from Japan's indigenous Shinto beliefs, which emphasize respect for natural forces, ancestors, and the spiritual essence found in all things. For martial artists, this cultural framework translated into core values that became fundamental to Japanese warrior traditions:

• Respect for the training space and traditions

• Humility before the vastness of knowledge to be learned

• Discipline in approaching serious study

• Gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow

• Connection to the lineage of practitioners who came before

Japanese martial arts developed within this cultural context, where training was viewed not just as physical exercise, but as a complete path of personal development. The kamidana served as a reminder that martial arts practice required physical skill, mental discipline, spiritual growth, and respect for teachers, training partners, and tradition.

How We Acknowledge the Kamidana

Our acknowledgment of the kamidana follows traditional dojo protocols that have been practiced for generations. These ceremonies create proper training mindset and connect us to authentic martial arts culture.

Entering the Dojo

When entering the training space, students bow to the kamidana and say "Shitsurei shimasu" (Excuse me for entering). This shows respect for the sacred training space and prepares the mind for serious practice.

Opening Ceremony

1. Formation

• The senior student announces "Seiretsu" (Line up)

• Students arrange themselves in rows facing the kamidana, ordered by rank

• Important cultural note: No row may contain exactly four people, as the number four is considered unlucky in Japanese culture

• If a row would have four people, the highest-ranking student from the next row joins to make five

2. Respect to Instructor

• Senior student announces "Sensei Ni Rei" (Bow to teacher)

• Students face the instructor and bow

3. Preparing the Offerings

• The instructor places fresh daily offerings before the kamidana: water (purity), salt (purification), and rice (sustenance)

• Candles are lit to create sacred atmosphere

• Special ceremonies may include rice wine as an additional offering

• Note: Following traditional practice, these offerings remain in place until replaced with fresh offerings the next day

4. Group Acknowledgment

• Senior student announces "Kamidana Ni Rei" (Bow to kamidana)

• Students stand at attention facing the kamidana with hands at their sides

• In unison, the class says "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" (Please guide us well)

• Follow the traditional sequence: clap twice, bow, clap once, bow again

5. Beginning Practice

• Senior student announces "Suwatte" (Sit)

• Students sit in seiza (formal kneeling position) and await instruction

Closing Ceremony

1. Final Formation

• Senior student calls "Seiretsu" - students line up as before

2. Respect to Instructor

• Senior student announces "Sensei Ni Rei" (Bow to teacher)

• Students face the instructor and bow

3. Gratitude to Kamidana

• Senior student announces "Kamidana Ni Rei" (Bow to kamidana)

• Students stand at attention, bow to kamidana, and say "Doumo Arigatou Gozaimashita" (Thank you very much for watching over our training)

4. Closing the Sacred Space

• Instructor extinguishes candles

• Offerings remain in place until replaced with fresh offerings the next day, following traditional kamidana care

Leaving the Dojo

When departing, students bow to the kamidana and say "Shitsurei shimashita" (Excuse me for having intruded), showing gratitude for the opportunity to train.

Outdoor Training Protocols

When training outdoors without access to the kamidana, we adapt our ceremonies to honor the kami while respecting the natural environment.

Outdoor Opening Ceremony

1. Formation

• Senior student announces "Seiretsu" - students line up facing north (traditional direction of respect)

• Students arrange themselves in rows ordered by rank (maintaining the no-four-people rule)

2. Respect to Instructor

• Senior student announces "Sensei Ni Rei" - students face instructor and bow

3. Acknowledgment of Natural Kami

• Senior student announces "Shizen Ni Rei" (Bow to nature)

• Students face north, stand at attention

• In unison say "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" (Please guide us well)

• Perform traditional sequence: clap twice, bow, clap once, bow again

4. Beginning Practice

• Senior student announces "Suwatte" - students sit in seiza awaiting instruction

Outdoor Closing Ceremony

1. Final Formation

• Senior student calls "Seiretsu" - students line up facing north

2. Respect to Instructor

• Senior student announces "Sensei Ni Rei" - students bow to instructor

3. Gratitude to Natural Kami

• Senior student announces "Shizen Ni Rei" (Bow to nature)

• Students bow toward north and say "Doumo Arigatou Gozaimashita" (Thank you very much for watching over our training)

Understanding Outdoor Practice

In traditional Japanese understanding, kami are not confined to shrines but are present throughout nature. When training outdoors, we acknowledge natural kami present in the environment, face north as a traditional direction of respect, maintain ceremonial structure to preserve training mindset, and show gratitude to the natural forces that allow us to train safely.

This adaptation honors both the indoor dojo tradition and the broader Shinto understanding that sacred presence exists throughout the natural world.

Caring for the Kamidana During Extended Absence

The daily care of our kamidana reflects the seriousness with which we approach this tradition. When the instructor must travel or cannot maintain the kamidana for an extended period, proper protocol requires temporarily and respectfully "closing" the sacred space.

Pre-Departure Protocol

Final Daily Care:

• Fresh offerings are placed one final time

• Candles are lit and normal acknowledgment performed

• Sarutahiko no Okami is respectfully informed of the temporary absence

Respectful Closure:

• All offerings are removed after the final acknowledgment

• Candles are extinguished and removed

• Kamidana doors are closed (the ofuda remains safely inside)

• A clean white cloth may be placed over the kamidana

• This represents temporary dormancy, not abandonment

Educational Value for Students: Occasionally, students may participate in this closing ceremony before an extended absence, which demonstrates the continuous responsibility that comes with maintaining sacred space, that improper maintenance is more disrespectful than proper temporary closure, the seriousness with which authentic practitioners approach these traditions, and how traditional protocols address real-world situations respectfully.

Reopening Upon Return

When the instructor returns, the kamidana is thoroughly cleaned, doors are reopened and covering removed, fresh offerings are placed with ceremony, and daily maintenance schedule resumes.

This practice teaches that authentic cultural traditions include protocols for every situation, showing the depth and practical wisdom of traditional Japanese approaches to sacred space.

Misogi no Harai: Purification for Rank Advancement

Our school continues the traditional practice of Misogi no Harai (purification ritual) as part of promotion ceremonies. This authentic Japanese spiritual practice has been used in martial arts schools for centuries to prepare practitioners for new levels of responsibility and understanding.

Understanding Misogi no Harai

Misogi (禊) means purification ritual, while harai (祓) means cleansing. Together, they represent spiritual preparation that accompanies advancement in martial arts rank. This practice recognizes that true promotion involves not just technical skill, but character development and spiritual growth.

Our Promotion Structure

Promotions in our school are rare and meaningful:

• Mu Dan (No rank) - Beginning students

• Ge Dan (Lower rank) - After 6 months, showing responsibility and dedication

• Chu Dan (Middle rank) - After 3 years, meeting curriculum and character requirements

• Sho Dan (First rank/1st degree black belt) - After 6 years, demonstrating complete curriculum, dedication, and responsibility

Ceremony Protocol

For Ge Dan and Chu Dan promotions (performed in the dojo):

• Following the opening ceremony, the candidate kneels in seiza before the kamidana

• The head instructor performs the misogi no harai, reciting the traditional purification prayer

• This preparation acknowledges that rank advancement requires spiritual readiness alongside technical competence

For Sho Dan promotion (performed at natural water source):

• The ceremony takes place at a waterfall or other natural water location

• This follows ancient tradition of natural misogi for major life transitions

• The natural setting emphasizes the profound nature of achieving black belt rank

The Purification Prayer

The instructor recites the traditional Misogi no Harai invocation:

Takama-no-hara ni kamuzumarimasu
Kamurogi Kamuromi no Mikoto mochite
Sume mi oya Kamu Izanagi no Mikoto
Tsukushi no Himuka no Tachibana no Odo no Ahagihara ni
Misogi harae tamaishi toki ni are maseru
Haraedo no O Kamitachi
Moromoro no magagoto tsumi kegare o
Harai tamae kiyome tamae to
Mosu koto no yoshi o
Amatsu Kami Kunitsu Kami
Yaoyorozu no Kamitachi tomo ni
Kikoshimese to
Kashikomi kashikomi mo maosu

The Student Registry and Beginning of True Study

Upon achieving Sho Dan, students are ceremoniously entered into the official student registry. This formal recognition carries profound traditional meaning:

Beginning, Not Mastery: Entry into the registry signifies that the student's true martial arts journey has begun. Everything prior to Sho Dan represents foundational preparation - developing character, basic techniques, and proper training attitudes.

Unofficial Status Before Black Belt: Until Sho Dan, practitioners are learning foundational elements but are not yet considered official students of the art in the traditional sense. This understanding keeps pre-black belt students focused on preparation rather than assuming mastery.

Humility for Black Belts: Most importantly, this tradition impresses upon new black belts that achieving Sho Dan does not make them masters or experts. Instead, they are now qualified to begin serious study of the martial arts. The registry entry marks their readiness to undertake the real learning that lies ahead.

Traditional Perspective: This approach reflects authentic Japanese martial arts philosophy where black belt represents the beginning of understanding, not its completion. Years of foundational work prepare students for the deeper study that only becomes possible with proper character development and basic competency.

Educational Context in Modern Training

Participating in these traditional acknowledgments allows students to experience authentic Japanese martial arts within their complete cultural framework. This is similar to how studying any culture requires understanding its customs, values, and historical context.

When we participate in these practices, we are not engaging in religious worship, but rather:

• Showing respect for cultural traditions

• Preparing our minds for disciplined training

• Connecting to centuries of martial heritage

• Demonstrating the humility required for genuine learning

This comprehensive approach helps students understand that Japanese martial arts are more than fighting techniques—they represent a complete cultural system for developing physical skill, mental discipline, and personal character that has been refined over generations, where spiritual growth accompanies physical and technical advancement, and where true mastery requires a lifetime of dedicated study that begins - not ends - at black belt.