Koto Ryu Densho training is the focus of our Black Belt Master Class at Instinct Defense Academy in Bethany. Black belts work through a complete study of the Koto Ryu Densho, exploring its 58 katas together, with Peter Kramer, a 15th Dan Shihan, guiding the way.

A densho is a written record of a school’s teachings. Studying it in person, with training partners, turns pages into skill.

What Is the Black Belt Master Class?

An advanced class for students who have reached black belt.
A complete study of the Koto Ryu Densho, including its 58 katas.
Collaborative training where students learn from one another.
Sessions are recorded so you can review the material.

What You’ll Get From Koto Ryu Densho Training

1. Depth, Not Just More Techniques

Revisit foundations with greater detail.
Understand why movements work, not only how.

2. A Structured Path Through 58 Katas

A clear curriculum instead of random review.
Steady progress through a classical body of material.

3. Learning by Teaching

Peer teaching helps you understand each kata more deeply.
Explaining a movement shows you what you really know.

4. Time With Master Kramer

Guidance from a 15th Dan Shihan with more than 30 years of teaching.
Corrections and context you can’t get from video alone.

5. A Community of Serious Practitioners

Train with students at your level.
Keep growing long after black belt.

Schedule and Cost

Every other Saturday, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
835 NW Saltzman Rd, Portland, OR 97229.
Free for students who train twice a week.
$25 drop-in for other black belts.

See full details on the Black Belt Master Class page.

Advanced Bujinkan Training Portland Students Can Build On

Our black belt martial arts classes Portland students attend are designed for depth, not repetition.
The curriculum is a complete classical text, studied kata by kata.
Students teach and learn together, which sharpens understanding.
Recordings let you revisit the material between sessions.

Who Can Join?

Black belts: the class is open to black belts only.
Current students: twice-a-week training makes the class free.
Future black belts: begin with our adult martial arts classes.
Students who want more flexibility: see our private lessons and online training.

Why Choose Instinct Defense Academy?

Experienced instruction: classes are led by 15th Dan Shihan Peter Kramer, with more than 30 years of teaching. Meet our instructors.
Reality-based training: Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu has no sport application. Every skill is built for real situations.
Beginner-friendly: you never need to be fit or experienced to start.
Flexible options: group classes, private lessons, and online training.

Black Belt Martial Arts Portland and Nearby Areas

We’re based in Bethany, Portland, and welcome students from Cedar Mill, Beaverton, Hillsboro, NW Portland, and the wider Washington County area. See our self-defense classes by Portland neighborhood page for more.

Try a Trial Class First

Not ready to commit? A trial class is the easiest way to see what training feels like. Trial classes are $10 for adults and $5 for kids, and you book them online on our trial class page.

Meet the instructors and try real techniques.
Ask about schedules, pricing, and which class fits you.
No contracts. Decide afterward whether to continue.

Prefer to talk first? Call +1 (503) 875-3275 or contact us. You can also learn more about the Black Belt Master Class.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Koto Ryu Densho?

It’s a written record of a school’s teachings. Our Black Belt Master Class studies the Koto Ryu Densho, including its 58 katas.

Who can join the Black Belt Master Class?

The class is for black belts.

When is the class?

Every other Saturday from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at our Bethany, Portland studio.

How much does it cost?

It’s free for students who train twice a week, with a $25 drop-in for other black belts.

How do I start training toward black belt?

Begin with a trial class and our adult classes, then work with Peter Kramer toward black belt.

Koto Ryu Densho Training for Black Belts in Portland