noun
General term for a way of doing something; somewhat formal or literary. In modern usage, 方法 (ほうほう) is more common for everyday 'method'.
彼は独自の方術で問題を解決した。
He solved the problem using his own method.
noun
mystic arts; supernatural techniques; magic
Refers specifically to the esoteric practices of Taoist hermits or immortals, such as alchemy, divination, or longevity techniques. Often encountered in historical or fantasy contexts.
仙人は方術を使って空を飛んだと言われている。
It is said that the immortal flew through the sky using mystic arts.
Compound of 方 (ほう, method/direction) and 術 (じゅつ, art/technique). The term has classical Chinese origins, where it referred to methods or arts, especially those of Taoist practitioners. In Japanese, it retains both the general sense of 'method' and the specific Taoist mystical sense.