Discover jikyō-jutsu, Japan’s oldest therapeutic movement system, through a talk and demonstration at Japan House London.
Jikyō-jutsu, literally ‘the technique of self-strengthening’, was designed to support health and mobility, and to ease symptoms like stiffness and back pain. It’s a whole-body routine of 31 movements that mobilize the joints, loosen tight muscles, and improve blood circulation. The aim is to bring the body into balance, stimulate its natural self-regulating mechanisms, and nurture a sense of wellbeing.
Jikyō-jutsu was created in 1916 by Nakai Fusagorō, a master masseur and healer. Over time, his skill drew more people than he could treat. It was one of his grateful former patients, an entrepreneur named Jūmonji Daigen, who suggested that Nakai design a technique which patients could practise themselves to improve their health. Jikyō-jutsu was the result.
The event offers a concise introduction to jikyō-jutsu techniques and principles, along with its origins in Chinese practices such as ankyō dōin (massage, self-massage and breathing techniques). This is followed by a demonstration led by practitioners, with expert explanation of the movements, their significance and their health benefits. There will be an opportunity to ask questions.
From October 2026 until January 2027, Japan House will host regular monthly jikyō-jutsu practice sessions led by Keiko Itoh.
Please note that filming and / or photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
Image: courtesy of Jikyō-jutsu Fukyūkai
About the speaker
Keiko Itoh
Keiko has practised jikyō-jutsu for over ten years and recently qualified as an instructor after completing training in Japan. Alongside this, she works part-time as an interpreter and writer. Earlier in her career, she worked for the United Nations, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the World Bank. She holds a PhD for her research on The Japanese Community in Pre-War Britain: From Integration to Disintegration, later published as a book, and is also the author of My Shanghai 1942–1946: A Novel.
About Jikyō-jutsu Fukyūkai
Jikyō-jutsu Fukyūkai (the Jikyō-jutsu Promotion Association) is the officially recognized body responsible for preserving, teaching, and promoting jikyō-jutsu across Japan. It was established in 1987 with backing from the Physical Education Bureau of the Ministry of Education (now the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) and granted public-interest status by the Cabinet Office in 2011. Today it supports around 1,900 instructors and 57,000 members, with activities extending to the US and Taiwan. Its mission centres on safeguarding jikyō-jutsu as cultural heritage and on promoting health and wellbeing, particularly among older adults.
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