RopeMarks Ryū Glossary

ROPEMARKS RYŪ

An illustrated reference to names, terms and expressions used in kinbaku, Japanese rope bondage and related traditions.

The glossary includes terminology that has come down through history, words connected to hojojutsu, and names used by well-known nawashi and kinbakushi that have become part of the wider rope vocabulary.

BROWSE THE GLOSSARY

Browse all entries alphabetically, or explore terms grouped by category.

BACKGROUND

The first version of this glossary dates back to 1999. It was later extended with the generous input of Master “K” and Osada Steve. Since then it has continued to grow through personal study and experience in the field of kinbaku.

Over the years, different versions of the glossary have also been copied and circulated elsewhere.

HOW TO READ IT

Most of the terms in this glossary are widely understood, but not every word has one universally agreed meaning. Usage can vary between teachers, lineages, periods and context.

Japanese kanji can also have more than one reading, and meaning depends partly on how and where a term is used.

Knowing the “correct” Japanese word for every shibari tie does not make someone a nawashi any more than owning an expensive camera makes someone a great photographer. Use the terminology as a guide, and keep the focus on the rope itself.