Two Styles Under One Roof

Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International – UK Branch

Welcome to MKKIK-UK Branch

The UK Branch of Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International (MKKI) is the official representative of Sensei Franco Sanguinetti, 9th Dan—one of the most senior and respected Matayoshi Kobudo instructors in the Western world. We are proudly affiliated with MKKI, one of the largest and most authoritative Matayoshi Kobudo organisations globally.

Our Legacy

Sensei Sanguinetti is a direct disciple of the late Matayoshi Shinpo Sensei and holds a prestigious Menkyo (teaching license) awarded personally by him. Before Matayoshi Sensei’s passing in 1998, Sensei Sanguinetti made a commitment to preserve and spread his teachings. Today, through the MKKI international network, he continues that mission with unwavering dedication.

 

What is Matayoshi Kobudo?

Matayoshi Kobudo is a classical Okinawan martial art focused on traditional weaponry. With roots stretching back nine generations in the Matayoshi family, it is one of the oldest and most respected Kobudo styles still practiced today.

The modern system we study today was shaped by two legendary figures:

  • Matayoshi Shinko (father)

  • Matayoshi Shinpo (son)

Together, they dedicated their lives to developing and passing on this unique art form. Matayoshi Shinpo Sensei, in particular, was internationally recognised as a master of Okinawan weapons, and his legacy continues to guide our training and teaching today.

The 12 Weapons of Matayoshi Kobudo

  • Bo (Staff)
  • Sai (Trident Dagger)
  • Tunkua (Side Handle Baton)
  • Nunchaku (Flail)
  • Ueku (Fisherman’s Oar)
  • Kama (Sickle)
  • Nunti (Fisherman’s Gaff)
  • Surichin (Weighted Rope)
  • Sansetsu Kon (Three-Sectional Flail)
  • Tinbi and Nata (Shield & Hatchet)
  • Kuwa (Hoe)
  • Manji Sai (Trident Dagger)

The Essence of Kobudo Training

Kobudo training provides a balance between unarmed and armed martial arts. Rooted in the history of Okinawa, the practice has evolved over many centuries. While it’s commonly believed that Kobudo weapons were derived from farming tools used by Okinawan farmers (Heimin class), recent historical findings suggest that it was actually the Pechin class (Okinawan warrior class) who practiced these techniques.

Matayoshi Kobudo is not just about mastering weapons but also about understanding the rich history, etiquette, and philosophy behind the art. Each student learns the values of respect, discipline, and self-awareness that define the martial tradition.

If you’re 14 years or older and interested in learning Matayoshi Kobudo, we invite you to join us for lessons or come by to observe a class!

The Future of Matayoshi Kobudo in Darlington

Our Darlington dojo is proudly affiliated with the Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International, a global network led by Sensei Franco Sanguinetti, an 9th Dan and direct student of Matayoshi Shinpo Sensei. Sanguinetti Sensei holds a Menkyo, a certification awarded by Matayoshi Shinpo Sensei, and is recognized as one of the world’s most experienced Matayoshi instructors.

As part of the largest-growing Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan group, our Darlington dojo is connected to a worldwide community that continues to preserve and share this remarkable martial art.

Class Times and Location:

  • Thursday from 8.00-9.30pm &
  • Saturday 11-12.30 pm

All Classes are held at the following location:

Clifton Centre,
Clifton Avenue,
Darlington,
DL1 5EE

Map to the hall can been seen on the Map to the training hall under Enquires on the main menu above.

Are you an Instructor who is interested in Teaching Matayoshi Kobudo?

  • Join Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International

    Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International is expanding globally, and becoming part of this esteemed martial arts community is simple. One of the greatest benefits of joining is the opportunity to train and learn the official Matayoshi Kobudo style, passed down through generations by Matayoshi Sensei himself.

    If you’re a martial arts instructor interested in teaching Matayoshi Kobudo, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to:

    1. Fred Bateman Sensei
      Tel: 0780 782 7978
      Email: sensei.fredbateman@gmail.com
    2. Franco Sanguinetti Sensei
      Email: fs@bushikan.com

     

Some Kobudo Training Pictures:

Click on the the pictures to enlarge.