The Search for Onko Chisin

After the passing of his master, a monk named Onko Chisin set out on a Musha-shugyō a warrior’s journey of growth and discovery. He travelled from dojo to dojo, learning from others, exchanging techniques, and telling stories from his master’s life. His talent for storytelling through kamishibai (picture theatre) made him both a martial arts master and a beloved teacher. Years later, a boy who had once trained with Onko grew into a skilled martial artist himself. When his teacher told him, "I have nothing more to teach you," he remembered Onko’s visit and longed to learn more. So, the young man set off on his own Musha-shugyō, retracing Onko’s steps. In every dojo he visited, people spoke of Onko Chisin. His techniques, stories, and teachings lived on everywhere. Puzzled that so many knew him, the young man finally arrived at Onko’s old dojo only to hear the master had retired to the mountains for meditation. Determined, the young man climbed into the mountains. After two exhausting weeks, he found the old master sitting silently. “Why have you disturbed my peace?” Onko asked sternly.

The young man told his story his journey, his need to learn, and his deep respect. Onko paused, then burst into laughter. “You came all this way to find me in the mountains? That’s so old-fashioned. I’ve been online for years! You could have just followed me on Facebook. Even your own teacher does!” The young man stayed for some time to learn from Onko and gained many followers of his own.

Food for thought

“Never stop learning but don’t forget to look around you.” In the age of technology, wisdom can be found both on the path and in the palm of your hand. What matters is your attitude: humility, curiosity, and respect for those who came before you. Sometimes the journey is not about the destination, but the realization that learning is everywhere  if your eyes are open.