Sensei Nicholas Inoue is the founder and head instructor of Saboten Kenjutsu and the creator of Tasai Ryu, a three-year sword curriculum that treats Chanbara as a complete martial art, not just a side sport. He trained in Chanbara under Shihan Tim VanDenover and Sensei Richard Klass beginning in 2000. Before Chanbara, he studied Okinawan Shorin Ryu with Shihan VanDenover (2000–2010) and Tae Kwon Do with Master Nicholas Koclanis (1998–2000). Shihan VanDenover is a direct student of Osensei James Hawkes, whose influence on modern martial arts runs far beyond the scope of this bio.

With over 20 years in martial arts and more than 15 years as an instructor, Sensei Inoue brings an analytical, supportive, and adaptable approach to the dojo. Classes are designed so that students take ownership of their training—senior students help run sessions—while Sensei provides targeted, direct instruction to those who are struggling or pushing into advanced material. He demands control in sparring, mental endurance, self-advocacy, accountability, consistency, and leadership from his students, and has zero tolerance for unsafe behavior or disrespect on the mat.

Tasai Ryu is built to produce high-quality black belts and real champions, backed by a clear curriculum and tracked progress. The ideal student at Saboten Kenjutsu is a teen who wants to strengthen a college resume the hard way—through long-term commitment, real skill, and visible growth—or anyone serious about becoming a lifelong learner. Students who stay the course leave with the ability to continue mastering sword or other weapon arts, genuine self-control and self-defense confidence, and a habit of introspection and self-accountability. The result is a community of nerdy warrior scholars who train hard, think clearly, and look out for one another.