Japanese and Chinese documents state that Chen Yuan-Yun (Chin Gempin or Chen Yuan-Pin; 1587-1674) was the first to introduce Chinese ju techniques (柔道 rou dao) into Japan during the early to middle 1600's. One such Japanese document is “Collections of Ancestor’s Conversations Volume 2".
“Honcho Bugei Shoden” (also referred to as “Kanjo Shoden”written by Hinatsu Shigetaka in 1716 states the following:
Recently, Chin Gempin came to Japan and stayed at the Kokusa monastery, where he met three ronin: Fukuno Hichiroemon, Isogai Jirozaemon, and Miura Yojiemon. Chin Gempin told them that in China, there is an art of seizing a man. He said that he had seen it practiced and gave a brief example of the art. Chin Gempin also stated that he had not learned all of the principles of the art. Upon hearing this, the samurai further researched this art. Once achieving a degree of skill, the samurai founded the Kito-ryu school of Jujutsu.
This story is repeated in various Japanese documents including Honcho Seji Danki, Bujutsu Ryusoroku, Roi Shintoryo Hisho, Kitoryu Kempohi, Kitoryu Toka Mondo, Owan Meisho Zue, and Zoin Kinsei Kijindenas. Rickson Gracie also attributes the Chinese with bringing the techniques of Ju-Jitsu into Japan, as stated on his website, when explaining the origin of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Qinna rou dao can also be found in shuai jiao. Judo's development was influenced by Kito-ryu. Similarities between judo and shuai jiao are apparent through the common link with chin na rou dao. The process of both of these arts becoming a sport further influenced similarities within their softer techniques.
