Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese martial art and self-defense system founded by Doshin So (also known as Kaiso) in 1947. It is designed as a gyo (discipline) to develop individuals through physical and mental training, aiming to create a more peaceful society. Core Principles & Philosophy
The foundation of Shorinji Kempo is the doctrine of Kongo Zen, which emphasizes the unity of body and mind (Ken Zen Ichinyo) and the idea that strength must be balanced with compassion.
Ken Zen Ichinyo: Body and mind are one; training should balance physical prowess with mental acuity.
Riki Ai Funi: Strength and love are inseparable. Power without compassion is violence; compassion without power is ineffective. shorinji kempo pdf updated
Jikko Kakuritsu: Self-establishment. Developing oneself to become a reliable person who can help others. Technical System
The curriculum consists of over 600 techniques divided into two primary families: SHORINJI KEMPO VALUE-LEVEL-UP GUIDELINES
If you are a current member but cannot find the file, do not search the web. Instead, send this exact message to your Shushin-ho (assistant instructor): Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese martial art and
“Dear Sensei, I am preparing for my next kyu grading. Could you please share the most recently updated syllabus PDF from the national federation? I want to ensure I am studying the 202x version of the hokei and juho sequences, not an older one.”
In our experience, instructors appreciate the specificity. They will often email you a password-protected PDF that is updated to the current quarter.
From Mukyu (no rank) to 1st Kyu (brown belt), the PDF should list required Goho (hard techniques: strikes, blocks, kicks) and Juho (soft techniques: joint locks, throws, escapes). Updated versions now include video QR codes linking to official WSKO demonstrations. How to Request an Official Updated PDF from
Since 2021, several European federations have replaced physical technical passports with a digital PDF handbook. These are watermarked to prevent public sharing. To find one, you must contact the Shibu-cho (branch master) and request the “latest digital technical guide.” Because these are updated annually, asking for version 2.4 or higher is key.
Verdict: If you are preparing for a grading, never rely on a free PDF alone. Spend $10 on an official digital syllabus. Your grading panel will thank you.
Shorinji Kempo employs a unique teaching methodology known as "Happo-no-kamae" (Postures for 8 directions) and a rank system that emphasizes teaching ability.
If you have a valid rank (Kenshi, ShoBu, etc.), you have access to the WSKO Members Portal. This is where real updated PDFs live:
How to access: You need your branch master (Shishu) to share the portal login. Do not pay for leaked PDFs on eBay—they are usually the 1990s versions.