Spring 2026 Tengu Training: Rain, Steel, and the Mountain Path
The 2026 Spring Tengu Training is in the books, and it was one of those weekends that reminds us exactly why we train the way we do.
From April 24th through the 26th, we gathered in the mountains for a To-Shin Do focused training retreat—stepping away from the normal rhythm of daily life and into something more intentional. More grounded. More real.
Friday: Arrival and Community
We arrived Friday afternoon, set up camp, and settled into the environment. After getting everything squared away, we headed into town for a shared meal.
That time around the table matters. It sets the tone. Before the training even begins, the bonds are strengthened. Then we returned to the mountains, ready for the work ahead.
Saturday: Rain, Steel, and Persistence
Saturday began in the mountain dojo.
We focused on To-Shin Do striking skills and footwork—refining movement, structure, and intent. From there, we transitioned out onto the trails… and the weather turned.
Heavy rain set in and stayed with us for the rest of the day.
And we trained anyway.
Out there in the elements, we worked Togakure-ryu Kenjutsu—specifically Raiku no Ken sword kata—learning to move, cut, and align ourselves under less-than-ideal conditions. There’s a clarity that comes from training in the rain. No distractions. No comfort. Just you, the technique, and the moment.
We layered in wilderness skills as well—survival awareness, fire-making, and environmental interaction. This is part of the art. Understanding not just how to move, but how to exist and function in the world around you.
We returned to the dojo for continued training before closing the day with Junen Taiso—stretching, conditioning, and restoring the body after a long day of work.
Sunday: Clarity and Flow
Sunday morning brought a complete shift.
Clear skies. Cool air. A quiet stillness.
We began again in the dojo, working To-Shin Do-inspired grappling drills and exploring concepts from Hiryu-no-Ken sword kata—bridging striking, movement, and positional control.
From there, we moved to the range and practiced bo shuriken throwing, working both conventional and unconventional tools. Precision, focus, and adaptability were the themes.
We then returned to the trail to practice Hiryu-no-Kata in its proper setting—bringing the movement out of the dojo and into the environment it was meant for.
Finally, we made our way down to the Dragon’s Mouth waterfall.
There, participants had the opportunity to sit, reflect, and, if they chose, step into the water for Taki-gyo—a form of waterfall meditation. Cold water, steady breath, and presence. A powerful way to close the experience.
Why This Matters
Tengu Training isn’t just about techniques.
It’s about:
- Training in different environments
- Building stronger relationships
- Testing your mindset under discomfort
- Connecting to the roots of the art
There’s something different about practicing among the trees, on the trail, in the rain, and beside the water. It changes how you understand what you’re doing.
Looking Ahead
This was a special weekend with an incredible group of people. Focused, positive, and committed.
We’ll be doing it again.
And if you’ve never joined us for Tengu Training, we encourage you to consider it. It’s one of the most unique and rewarding experiences we offer.
Train hard. Stay present. We’ll see you next time in the mountains.
– Hardee Merritt
