Shibari Basics Course
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Every rope journey begins with a first knot ...
💭 With curiosity ❓ With questions 💫 and with the desire
to experience something that can be much more than beautiful rope photos.
That’s exactly why we created our Basics Course!
In our four-part Basics Course, you’ll learn more than just rope techniques.
Step by step, you’ll develop an understanding of
why they work and how to use them safely
and how technique can become a mindful form of communication through rope.
FUNDAMENTALS OF SHIBARI 初 歩 的
A four-part Basic Course for a safe and mindful introduction to the world of Shibari.
Shibari doesn’t start with complicated ties. It starts with curiosity, attentiveness, and a desire to understand . . .
💥 WHY TAKE A BASIC COURSE?
Many people begin their rope journey with books, videos, or individual tying patterns. This can be inspiring and spark curiosity. Sooner or later, though, questions often come up:
❔Why does a technique work?
❔Why does the same tie feel different on different people?
❔How can I tell if something is safe and comfortable?
❔Why are there different ways to approach the same situation?
That’s exactly where our teaching begins.
We don’t aim to show you as many ties as possible. We want to help you understand how things fit together, so that individual techniques can gradually build into a solid foundation.
💫 UNDERSTAND. PRACTICE MINDFULLY. EXPERIENCE IT TOGETHER
Across four progressive modules, we’ll guide you step by step into the world of Shibari. You’ll learn fundamental tying techniques and understand how they work, what matters for safety, and how small adjustments can make a big difference to safer, more body-friendly tying.
Because we believe:
A solid foundation will take you further than the next knot!
💫 ... MORE THAN A ROPE PATTERN
Imitation is the beginning—understanding is the foundation.
We believe good Shibari doesn’t begin with learning as many patterns as possible, but with understanding not only how something works, but why ... Because lasting learning begins with understanding.
Of course, you’ll learn rope techniques and patterns with us, but to us each technique is simply a tool.
What matters to us is that you learn to understand when and why it works, and how to adapt it to different situations.
That understanding gives you confidence, and confidence creates the freedom to focus on each other instead of relying on memorised routines, so you can explore Shibari safely and enjoyably.
💫 TECHNIQUE, UNDERSTANDING & DYNAMICS
We’ll help you build a shared rope practice you can rely on. Alongside the technical foundations, we’ll help you understand the dynamics that arise during tying. It’s not just about performing techniques, but also about recognising:
• how a tie changes as it progresses
• how communication happens nonverbally
• and how your partner’s reactions affect the tie
Step by step, this helps you engage more mindfully with what happens between two people in the rope.
💫 SAFETY & RESPONSIBILITY
Safety is a shared responsibility!
Alongside safety considerations, anatomy knowledge and the right tools for the person doing the tying, we also give models [Ukete] the knowledge they need. The aim is to develop an awareness of your own bodily responses and limits, as well as a personal understanding of risk. We also cover posture, ways to influence the tie, and how both partners can actively contribute to a safer rope experience
🧭 THE COURSE
Four modules to build a solid foundation.
Each module builds on the one before it. Rather than trying to cover as much as possible in a short time, we deliberately make time for review, questions and practical exercises.
Our goal isn’t for you to learn as many ties as possible.
Our goal is for you to leave each module with a better understanding than when you arrived.
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💼 Module 1 - Understanding the rope
The first knot is often the start of a long journey. In this module, you’ll learn how to handle rope safely, explore some basic techniques and discover the principles that underpin everything that follows.
💼 Module 2 - Safety is in the details
Many risks come not from major mistakes, but from small decisions. We’ll cover anatomy, risk prevention and how proper rope placement makes a difference.
💼 Module 3 - Pay attention, not just tie
As your confidence grows, so does your perspective on rope. You’ll develop a feel for communication, body language and the dynamics that arise while tying.
💼 Module 4 - Bringing it all together
In the final module, we bring together what we’ve covered over the past few weeks. Step by step, technique, communication and awareness come together in your rope practice.
🧩 SUPPORT BETWEEN MODULES
For us, learning doesn’t stop when class ends. Practice between modules is an important part of the learning process. We’re committed to providing thorough, responsible instruction—and that takes consistency. The Basic Course is therefore taught in modules, each building on the one before it. Practising between sessions is an important part of learning. Our KUMITE training sessions and the ZENDO Rope Jam are available as opportunities to practise between classes. You can consolidate your skills, ask questions and develop further in a supportive environment.
We’ll support you through this part of your rope journey too.
🧩 WHAT YOU'LL TAKE AWAY FROM THE COURSE
The course combines sound fundamentals with plenty of hands-on practice. We make time for review, questions, and individual feedback.
After the course, you'll be able to...
✔ confidently use basic tying techniques
✔ choose and use ropes and materials thoughtfully.
✔ assess anatomy, body handling, and the resulting risk prevention measures
✔ become more aware of body language, nonverbal communication, and your partner's responses.
✔ build confidence working with rope through practical exercises and personal feedback.
✔ take away a solid foundation through plenty of practical exercises, individual feedback, and personal guidance, so you can consciously build on it as you continue your rope journey.
(*) The material builds progressively and is adapted to the group's learning pace.
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WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?
This course is for people who want to do more than just try Shibari—they want to learn it consciously and thoroughly from the very beginning.
It's especially suited to you if you...
❯ want to explore the world of Shibari together.
❯ are looking for a structured introduction with no prior experience needed.
❯ have some experience already and want to strengthen or refine your fundamentals.
❯ want to understand why a technique works, rather than simply copying it from a book or video.
❯ value prevention, communication, and treating one another with care.
In our four-part Basic Course, we'll guide you step by step as you begin exploring the world of Shibari. You'll learn basic tying techniques and develop an understanding of why they work, what matters for safety, and how technique can become a form of mindful communication through rope.
🌸 OUR PHILOSOPHY
More than a pattern made of rope
For us, Shibari is about much more than learning individual ties. Of course, you'll learn techniques, knots, and patterns. But each technique is just a tool to us.
What matters is understanding why it works, when it's useful, and how it can be adapted to different people and situations.
Because safety doesn't come from memorized routines. Safety comes from understanding.
And that understanding gives you the freedom to take your eyes off the rope and focus on the person. That's where Shibari begins for us.
🌸 OUR TEACHING APPROACH
For us, learning is about more than mastering individual techniques.
We want to give you a foundation on which to consciously build the rest of your rope journey.
That’s why we teach not only how, but also why each technique works. We make time for questions, practice and different approaches, because lasting learning comes from understanding—not memorising individual ties.
A solid foundation comes from understanding, practice and experience.
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OUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
For us, Shibari is a space for connection and discovery.
We believe people learn best when they feel free to ask questions, make mistakes and be themselves.
That’s why we value a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Our studio should be somewhere you enjoy coming—not just for the lessons, but because you feel welcome there.
No one has to prove anything here. Our small group sizes leave time for personal guidance, individual feedback and sharing ideas. We see mistakes as a natural part of learning, because they often lead to the most valuable insights.
🌸 ABOUT SAKURA ROPE
Sakura Rope grew out of a passion for Shibari and a desire to create a place for people to learn and connect.
We didn’t start teaching with a plan to open a Shibari school. It grew from the many questions of people who wanted to tie with us and understand our approach.
To this day, we teach with the same conviction:
We want to help people explore Shibari safely, mindfully and with joy.
Not so they can learn as many ties as possible.
But so they understand what they’re doing.
📣 Everything at a glance
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📅 Course duration: 4 modules of 4 hours each
📍 Prerequisites: None required
🪢 Ropes: Loaner ropes are available if needed.
📌 Location: 71701 Schwieberdingen
👥 Group size: max. 4 couples
🕒 Next course starts in January!
Module 1:
Sunday, January 17, 2027
Module 2:
Sunday, February 14, 2027
Module 3:
Sunday, March 07, 2027
Module 4:
Sunday, April 11, 2027
Group I: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Group II: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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If you are unable to attend one of the sessions, you can
make up the module in a one-to-one private lesson on a separately agreed date within the time window
before the next module. This helps maintain safety, technical understanding, and the group's shared flow.
An additional fee applies for this private session. If several couples would like to make up
the same module during the same period, the hourly rate may be reduced accordingly.
💰 Price: 145,-€ per lesson/session per couple [total 580,-€]
Prices include VAT
We offer a discount when you pay the full amount in one instalment.
We want to make our offerings as accessible as possible,
so paying in instalments, even in smaller amounts, is of course possible.
Feel free to get in touch!
🍴 Refreshments: Soft drinks (non-alcoholic) and sweet/savoury snacks are included
📄 Payment methods: Payment in advance via PayPal or, if necessary, bank transfer.
🗺️ Your journey starts with this click.
We look forward to meeting you and guiding you through your first steps in Shibari.
You can also use the
contact form
to register your interest for the next session in spring 2027.
-or- Don’t want to wait that long, or don’t the dates work for you?
Then our individual 1:1 instruction might be the right choice for you...
If you choose our Basic Course in a 1:1 setting and book all four module sessions at once,
you’ll get a special rate—just get in touch.
FAQ: BASIC | SHIBARI FUNDAMENTALS
What is the Basic Course?
📍The Basic Course is our structured fundamentals series for anyone who wants to do more than just try Shibari and learn it in depth.
Unlike one-off beginner workshops, the Basic Course runs over multiple sessions. Each session builds on the last, helping you develop a lasting understanding of technique, safety and mindset.
It’s suitable for anyone who wants to learn Shibari thoroughly, safely, and step by step from the ground up.
What’s the difference between the Basic Course and Kickstart or Taster Workshops?
👉 In short:
The Basic Course isn’t a taster session, but a structured and in-depth learning journey.
Basic Course
✔️ Multiple sessions that build on each other
✔️ Structured skills development
✔️ More time for review, integration and questions
✔️ Sustainable development of technique & safety
Kickstart / Taster Workshops
✔️ Single session
✔️ Getting Started
✔️ Accessible introduction
✔️ Focus on getting to know each other and an introduction to the fundamentals
Who is the Basic Course for?
This course is for:
🎯 ️Beginners with no prior experience
🎯 ️People who have already attended a Taster or Kickstart Workshop
🎯 ️Couples who want to build a solid foundation together
🎯 ️Individuals with a regular practice partner
As the course is based on continuity, regular attendance is required.
Our spaces welcome queer identities, diverse relationship styles and neurodivergent people. Respect and consent are essential.
What happens if I miss an appointment or can’t attend?
🧩 Our aim is to provide thorough, responsible training—and that takes continuity. The Basics course is modular, with each module building on the one before it.
📅 If something does come up, please let us know as early as possible. We’ll work together to see what options are available so you don’t fall behind.
The course fee for the booked module is payable in full, regardless of attendance.
Any missed module can be made up or reviewed in a one-to-one private lesson, scheduled separately within the period before the next module. An additional fee applies.
If several people want to make up the same module during the same period, the hourly rate may be reduced accordingly.
Please note:
If you don’t make up a module, you won’t be able to continue with the current course series for instructional and safety reasons. In this case, the relevant terms and conditions apply.
Do we need any prior experience?
No. Our Basic Course is specifically designed for beginners and curious people with no prior experience.
We start with the fundamentals and build up the content step by step. Above all, curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn together are important.
Do I need to bring my own ropes?
🪢 YES AND NO
Ropes in different materials will be available for the first part of the workshop, so you can try out different textures and styles.
We also recommend bringing your own ropes, as you’ll be working with your familiar gear over several sessions and should practise between sessions too.
If you don't have your own ropes yet, we're happy to advise you beforehand.
What should I bring?
👉 Openness and curiosity
👉 Comfortable clothing
👉 Blanket (thick socks if needed / shoe-free zone)
👉 Your questions! 🌟
All other materials are available to use on-site or will be provided. (Drinks and snacks included)
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
Many participants opt for leggings, sportswear, or a close-fitting top. The important thing is that you feel comfortable and can move freely.
We recommend that the feminine-presenting bottom avoid wearing an underwire bra.
Can I attend on my own?
This course is for established rope partners—whether you’re a couple, friends, or play partners.
The key thing is that, as an individual participant, you have a practice partner throughout the course who is attending with you and available to practise.
If you don’t currently have a regular partner, feel free to get in touch. We’ll figure out the options together and whether private lessons or another offering might suit you better.
Is this course suitable for people who don't want to do suspensions later on?
Yes.
Our Basic Course covers the fundamentals of Shibari—whatever path you choose to take later.
Whether you plan to stay on the ground or explore suspension ties later on makes no difference for this course.
A solid foundation is equally valuable for both paths.
How large is the group?
⚖️ We deliberately keep group sizes small. With a maximum of four pairs, there’s plenty of time for individual feedback, questions and practice.
This allows us to offer individual guidance, give feedback and answer questions, supporting you where you need it most. For us, quality matters more than group size.
We’d love to support you on an individual basis.
Course content
MODULE 1
- Introduction to the fundamentals of Japanese rope bondage
- Safety and risks
- Rope materials
- Basic knot techniques
- Principles of rope safety
- Rope handling, rope placement and dexterity
- First floor tie
Module 2
- Anatomy & safety in greater depth
- Deeper exploration of knots and their applications ...
- First patterns/ties (upper body + legs)
- Introduction to the dynamics and emotions of tying
- Reading emotional and physical responses
- Anatomical considerations for specific ties
- Body handling
Module 3
- Intensifying rope bondage
- Developing an understanding of the techniques and how to apply them
- Exploring different ways of communicating through rope
- Learning preparatory ties for future suspension
Module 4
- Intensify upper-body ties
- Increase the difficulty of the ties (additional “legs” tying patterns)
- Create a session / practical application and deepen what you’ve learned
in addition to the modules:
Between sessions, we encourage you to use the time to practice and consolidate your skills, so you can continue to make steady progress.
Our KUMITE (supported practice sessions) or ZENDO rope meet are great options for this. We’re also happy to support you with your ties and practice via WhatsApp, Telegram, and other channels.
What happens between the modules?
For us, learning doesn’t end when class is over.
Between modules, you can put what you’ve learned into practice at our KUMITE training sessions or the ZENDO Rope Social. You can practice, ask questions and gain experience—we’re happy to support you.
What if we think we’re "not fit enough" or "not flexible enough"?
We hear this concern often.
You don’t need any special strength or exceptional flexibility for the Basic course. We adapt the exercises to your individual abilities and make sure you feel comfortable and respect your own limits.
How physically demanding is the course?
🌿 The course starts with basic positions and gradually builds from there.
🌿It’s not about pushing the body to extremes, but about working with control and awareness—and directly with the body and its joints.
That’s why body manipulation is also part of the course: consciously guiding, positioning, and aligning the body in space and within a structure. It’s not about demonstrating strength, but about understanding leverage, angles, stability, and safe joint alignment.
We start with the fundamentals and gradually increase the intensity and complexity. Some positions may nevertheless require strength, flexibility, and core control—for both the person tying and the person being tied.
Important:
🧘honest self-assessment
🧘Communicating boundaries in good time
🧘 Willingness to slow down
Nobody has to “push through.” Your safety and bodily integrity always come before ambition or aesthetics.
Why don’t you offer an intensive course, for example over an entire weekend?
We believe that sustainable learning takes time.
Between modules, you’ll have time to practise, come up with questions, and consolidate what you’ve learned. Each module builds on the one before it, helping you develop a solid foundation step by step.
Awareness
Are there any rules of conduct?
Yes. Respect, consent, mindfulness and treating one another with appreciation are essential.
We place great importance on the safety and wellbeing of all participants at our courses and events. We therefore expect you to act carefully, communicate openly, respect consent and be mindful of others. We encourage everyone to honour their own boundaries and take responsibility for themselves.
Together, we want to create a space where everyone feels safe and comfortable. We’re LGBTQIA+🌈-friendly, neurodivergence- and neurodiversity-friendly, and inclusive in general.
Harassment and other violations will not be tolerated, and we reserve the right to remove anyone from the premises.
By entering the event, you expressly agree to the house rules, code of conduct/netiquette, and the legal notices contained therein, and undertake to comply with them.
Guidelines
Remember, we all want to have a good time together and look out for one another. Disruptive behavior or failure to follow the rules will result in immediate and permanent removal!
Location
Classes take place at our own studio.
Address:
ZENDO | A space for mindful connection
Stuttgarter Straße 42/2
71726 Schwieberdingen
GERMANY
📍 Google Maps
Your registration for the Basic Course | FUNDAMENTALS OF SHIBARI:
.
If you have a question about our offerings (workshops, lessons, or rope meetups), or would like to find out more about us, just send us an
email
or fill out the
contact form
. You can also reach us via
Feel free to contact us on
WhatsApp
as well.
Your registration for the "Shibari Basic Course":
If you have a question about our offerings (workshops, lessons, or rope meetups), or would like to find out more about us, just send us an
email
or fill out the
contact form
. You can also reach us via
Feel free to contact us on
WhatsApp
as well.
