David Barber

Born 1972, Sydney, Australia. Enrolled at the Choy Lee Fut Martial Arts Federation, Sydney Chinatown, 1986 (age 14). Received Cantonese speaking instruction in traditional Chinese kung fu, weaponry & lion dance under the guidance of Sifu Mark Whelan & Sifu Chan Yong Fa, Ancestral Headmaster of the 200 year old family tradition. Received additional instruction & grading from Sifu Chan Cheuk Fai, founder of the Australian Jin Wu Koon Academy (Sydney Chinatown). Began regular trips to Hong Kong & mainland China, 1990. Admitted to Jinan University, Guangzhou China, 1992. Relocated to Japan to pursue aiki-jujutsu studies, 1995. Settled permanently in Kamakura city, Japan's ancient capital and the birthplace of samurai culture. Discovered the Arakido organization, a 400 year old school of traditional samurai military arts which had relocated to Kamakura city during the Meiji era. Began studying Yagyu Shingan Ryu Taijutsu (battlefield arts) & Yagyu Shinkage Ryu (swordsmanship) in 2004.  David is a direct disciple (jiki-deshi) of Saito Satoshi (5th Soke of Negishi Ryu & appendant schools) & Kajitsuka Yasushi (11th Soke of Yagyu Shingan Ryu Taijutsu / Yagyu Shinkage Ryu Heiho). Three decades living in Japan. Over two decades of dedicated koryu study via constant, direct transmission. Highest ranked non-Japanese practitioner of the aforementioned koryu traditions. One of only three people in the world to receive a Shihan license from the late master, Saito Satoshi. Member of the illustrious Nihon Kobudo Kyokai & Nihon Kobudo Shinkokai. Appointed Head of Negishi Ryu International. Founder of the Kamakura Renbukan Dojo.