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.

At Hidden Mountain Martial Arts, we focus heavily on three core principles:

1. Selflessness

2. Personal growth

3. Martial tradition

Our training method is designed to reinforce these principles:

• Classes are conducted with minimal equipment to prevent dependency on training aids and to focus on developing innate skills.

• We use a simplified ranking system with only three belts:

  • White belt for beginners

  • Brown belt for students

  • Black belt for advanced ranks

This unique system reinforces the idea that progress is a personal journey, undertaken for the sake of growth rather than external validation. We encourage students to focus on their own development rather than comparing themselves to others.

During the white belt period, not only do students decide if they want to pursue membership, but the instructor also gauges their worthiness and aptitude. This mutual evaluation period ensures that our school is the right fit for each student. If we determine that a student might be better served elsewhere, we provide counseling and recommendations for other schools that may better suit their needs and desires.

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.