What is Kendo Spirit?
Learn the techniques of kendo, passed down for over a thousand years. At Kendo Spirit, we go beyond ordinary kendo experiences. Here, you will learn both the techniques and the mindset of the samurai.
2-hour Activity
Kendo is a martial art where victory is decided in an instant. A single moment of hesitation or emotional instability can be the difference between life and death. For the samurai of the past, this was no metaphor—it was literal. In battles where life and death hung in the balance, they had to maintain a calm, focused mind. Without it, fear would seize their bodies, leaving them defenseless. Thus, the path of a true samurai was not only about mastering techniques but also about training the heart and mind—a journey of inner discipline. At Kendo Spirit, we offer more than just a kendo experience. Here, you will learn both the techniques and the mindset of a samurai.
What Will You Do?
Do you know how points are scored in kendo? Achieving a point requires ki-ken-tai-no-itchi—the unification of spirit, sword, and body. Sounds complicated? Let’s break it down:
• Ki (Spirit): Practicing focus and intent.
• Ken (Sword): Mastering strikes and thrusts.
• Tai (Body): Training proper movements and footwork.
Without all three elements in harmony, a strike cannot be counted as a point. Simply swinging a bamboo sword while wearing armor is not kendo. At Kendo Spirit, we guide you through all these elements so you can experience what it truly takes to score in kendo.
No Experience? No Problem!
Never seen kendo before? Have zero knowledge? Don’t worry! After changing into kendo attire, you’ll begin by learning about the history of kendo, the spirit of kendo practitioners, and the rules—all explained clearly in English. Did you know that you can use two bamboo swords in kendo? Or that there’s more than one way to hold a sword? Why is ki-ken-tai-no-itchi so crucial for scoring? Why are manners and etiquette such an important part of Japanese martial arts? Feel free to ask any questions you’ve ever had about kendo.
Too Fast to Follow? We’ve Got You Covered!
Do kendo matches seem too fast to understand who won? Don’t worry. We’ll demonstrate different techniques and explain how to recognize a successful strike. By the end of your session with Kendo Spirit, you’ll understand the elements required to score a point and be able to identify them in action. Strengthen your body, refine your mind, and train your eyes.
The Challenge of Real Combat
Kendo is not a solo activity—it’s a competition between two opponents. Rushing forward to strike without strategy is a fatal mistake. So, when is the right moment to attack? It’s when you draw out your opponent’s strike or catch them off guard when they hesitate. Sound confusing? Our kendo masters will help you feel what it’s like to be outmaneuvered and struck when you least expect it. On the flip side, think you’ve got what it takes to land a strike on one of our masters? Confident that hitting your target is just a matter of timing? Come and challenge us. We’ll show you the essence of 1000 years of kendo technique.
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