Yukimura Ryū I - A Weekend with Michael Ropeknight (from improver)

Doors open: 10:30AM

Yukimura Haruki’s philosophical approach to Shibari was unique in the japanese scene and was often referred to as „caressing rope“. We take a deeper look at the concepts of Semenawa and Aibunawa, learn first basics of Yukimuras way of tying and experience its application.

We will give space to the introduction of a special mindset as well as possible approaches and behaviors in dealing with each other. Then we will use the patterns and procedures in order to use more complex “techniques”. The main focus is on the generation of emotions through the “how” in the implementation of the bondage.

Day 1:
On the first day, participants will learn about the fundamental philosophical approaches
of Yukimura Haruki's tying style. Ropeknight has further developed this style for the
Western spirit, making his own approaches, building blocks and nuance accessible and
easy to learn for both beginners and experienced tying couples.
Terms such as Semenawa and Aibunawa will be analyzed, and participants will learn
their first basic ties.
The more experienced the tying partner, the more they can focus on the nuances of
working with the model.
The introduction of a special mindset, as well as possible approaches and behaviors in
the interaction between partners, plays a significant role.
There will be ample opportunity for the further development of both partners' personas
and their shared communication.

Day 2:
The ties, techniques and approaches developed on the first day will be used to explore
more complex ties. The primary focus will be on evoking emotions through the how of
implementing the ties.

FOR WHO?
This workshop is aimed at bondage couples who want to explore the world of Yukimura
Ryu together. Since this is ultimately a world of eroticism, there should be no fear of
intimacy between the bondage partners.
The workshop can be visited by beginners to advanced participants.

REQUIREMENTS
Participants will need approximately 5 ropes (recommended rope length: 7-8 meters, 4-
5 mm in diameter).
Please bring a blanket to use as a base.

Models are encouraged to wear clothing with potential for exposure (e.g. no leggings and tights).

There will be a follow-up workshop Yukimura ryu II in November 2026.

About Michael Ropeknight:

Michael Ropeknight had the opportunity to experience and learn different styles of Shibari during his various trips to Japan. 

He studied under several well-known Bakushi and became an official student of Osada Steve, who shortly thereafter introduced him to Yukimura Haruki Sensei. 

In the following years, Michael spent a great deal of time with these two masters, studying their techniques and philosophies. 

Yukimura Sensei and Osada Steve described his emotional abilities in dealing with his Shibari partners and his use of energetic components (Ki) as extraordinary. Not only because of these exceptional strengths did both masters honor him by appointing him as an official instructor of their styles. 

In 2024, Michael decided to retire as an official Osada-Ryu instructor, as physical limitations no longer allowed him to teach suspensions at the highest level. Since then, he has focused on his core competencies: deepened communication and personal development for all participants involved in rope. With this focus on Ropeknight’s Yukimura-Ryu, Michael brings valuable insights into the emotional and mental connection between partners, thus fostering the development of a mindful and conscious dynamic in Shibari. 

In recent years, Ropeknight has further developed the Yukimura-Ryu within a Western mindset, making it a cornerstone in the training of rope enthusiasts around the world by incorporating his unique strengths and understanding of the human soul—just as Yukimura Sensei had expected of him.

Find out more about Michael Ropeknight at www.ropeknight.com. 

About Anna Noctuelle:

Anna is a highly experienced and versatile Shibari practitioner with over 18 years of experience. Her journey with Shibari began as a personal discovery and has since evolved into a multifaceted practice encompassing teaching, modelling and performing. 

Anna’s artistic journey has been deeply influenced by her diverse background. With a foundation in classical dance and breath work practice, she brings grace, elegance, and a keen sense of body awareness to her Shibari practice. Her exploration of Buddhism, tantra and meditation, as well as her commitment to yoga, have shaped her aesthetic and philosophical approach to Shibari, lending it a spiritual depth and tranquility. Being a linguist in her other life she’s constantly exploring the communicative aspects of Shibari. Anna Noctuelle’s blend of skills, knowledge, and experience make her an exceptional practitioner and educator of Shibari who understands what it means create safe and inclusive learning environments which reward inquiry, curiosity, courage, experimentation and playfulness.

Tickets are non-refundable, as once they’re sold we often have a waiting list and are happy to help contact those guests to assist with reselling where possible🎟️💛. For our regularly occurring classes, we’re also very happy to rebook your ticket for a different date when needed 📅✨