Dojo Raiden

Dojo Raiden is located approximately 45 miles north of Toshi no Inazuma, and is the oldest Mantis dojo still in existance. The core philosophy of the dojo is that there are many ways to serve, and that all are needed.

History
The dojo was founded in 644 by a retired Mantis bushi named Iroshu. He had visited his old dojo when he was struck by how lax the discipline of the students was, and was outraged by the fact that where he had spent his entire life working to defend the intrests of the Mantis the youth of the clan were being taught by lax sensei. The next morning a furious Iroshu challenged the master of the dojo, accusing the young sensei of intentionally sabotaging the clan. Iroshu soundly defeated the man and carried the body to the nearby cliffs. The students followed their new sensei to where would become their new dojo. Iroshu named the place Cliff of Weakness, and threw the previous sensei's body over the edge, declaring that anyone who failed their training would suffer the same fate. Over the years the dojo has in addition of focusing on the martial arts increased the training in the merchantile arts also.

Traditions
Since the founding of the dojo the threats made by Iroshu have yet to be enforced. No failing students have been thrown off the cliff, however few students are willing to test that theory. Due to a very broad curriculum there are very few students that fail entirely, and most find something to suit their natures. There are also several rice fields and fisheries nearby, established primarily for the purpose of feeding the dojo. Delicacies such as pineapple and mango have however made the food made here more of an export than just for the school. Also in the near area there are a number of blacksmiths soley to maintain the weapon stocks, and both the farmers and smiths are assisted by the students as a part of their "practical trianing". Because of this any visting dignitaries are given full tours of the dojo, as students from the samurai caste working the fields would be a shock, just the way the Mantis prefer it. The age of students when they first arrive is usually ten, but children as low down as five have been allowed in. Typical tenure of study is eight years. A bushi who cannot sail or trade in peacetime will be useless, as will a merchant who cannot fight in a war.

Training
The training at the dojo is more intense than most others in Rokugan, as it is an education in the way of life. Training for the students involves "hands on" experiences within merchantile trading, and students learn economics by working directly with the school's finances. Martial training is just as intense, as several hours each morning and evening is spent practicing with a wide variety of weapons. In addition to exercises in kenjutsu the dojo also offers training with "peasant weapons", and since the addition of the Wasp Clan to the Mantis kyujutsu has found a place in the curriculum. The afternoon teaching focuses on history, accounting and geography, and typical courses such as litterature, poetry and other fine arts are all but completely ignored. This is designed for a more practical teaching as opposed to the "Crane-virtues".

Sensei
When it comes to the non-combat teachings nearly anyone is allowed to teach the students. The martial training however is left up to the most glorious of the Yoritomo bushi. The only exception here is that kyujutsu is taught by the Tsuruchi family. The other skills such as farming, fishing, sailing and commerce are usually taught by skilled heimin.

Notable Sensei

 * Iroshu 644 - ?
 * Yoritomo Tsuki ? - ?

Notable Students

 * Yoritomo Kamoto
 * Yoritomo Katoa

Major References

 * Way of the Samurai Pages 47-48.