Experience Kendo in Kyoto
Description
Tomoyoshi, the instructor, will give you a short lecture on how the ancient swordsmanship of Samurai developed into Kendo. He will share the heroic stories of ancient Samurai including his great-grandfather, Yoshishige Hayashi. He will also share the controversial influence of Bushido values on this nation and his family into extremism, especially during the period of WW2. He will end his story on how redemption came and led him to the current inner peace and the life of a pacifist. After the lecture, you will wear the full Kendo armor and learn the basic Kendo movements. In the end, you will get to do a Kendo match with each other. Upon completing the workshop, you will receive a beautifully designed “Certificate of Experience”. If the date you want isn't available, please contact us to inquire about availability.
Tour Options
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Please note that due to the summer heat/humidity and to ensure the comfort of our guests, the location (Former Budoku hall) may be changed to an air-conditioned dojo.
Reviews(2)
Sensei "Tomo" and his wife were great teachers. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone interested in learning a little more about Traditional Japan as well as martial arts. It is introductory level and beginner friendly, but you will get a chance to suit up with the traditional kendo gear and lightly spar with your partner. The sensei and his wife were very friendly, spoke english, accommodated all skill levels, and seemed genuinely interested in those participating. They took pictures for us without asking. They inquired about how our trip was going so far in Japan, and even gave further recommendations. The kendo experience began with an in depth education and background into the history of not only Kendo, but Japan, and the dojo the session took place in. After some background, we were shown proper attire and how to suit up, then went through basic katas and moves of kendo, and finally wrapped up with some light practice or sparring (if people chose to participate). Overall the experience was wonderful and everyone involved in my session seemed to leave with a smile.
After training on my own for a while in the woods, I dropped everything and went to Kyoto to finally find a spar. This experience allowed me to have that spar, being able to stretch beyond your limits is what pushes human progression.
