noun
ancient Japanese martial arts
Refers to traditional Japanese martial arts that predate the modern era, often emphasizing classical techniques and philosophies.
彼は古武道の達人だ。
He is a master of ancient Japanese martial arts.
Compound of 古 (old, ancient) and 武道 (martial arts). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term is conventionally used to distinguish classical martial arts from modern budo.