Makoto
Co-founder / Instructor at Kendo Spirit
About Me
Hi, I’m Makoto, the instructor and photographer at Kendo Spirit.
I first became interested in Kendo in the third grade of elementary school. At the time, I was fascinated by Japanese history and the lives of the samurai. That interest led me to pick up the bamboo sword and begin my journey in the dojo.
At first, I focused on technique, how to strike, how to move. But as I continued to train, I realized that the true essence of Kendo lies much deeper. Kendo is not only about sword skills, it’s about respect, manners, and the inner strength we build through constant self-reflection. Through Kendo, I’ve grown not just as a martial artist, but as a person.
At Kendo Spirit, I believe our mission is more than just teaching foreign visitors how to fight. I want them to feel the spirit of Kendo, the calm, the focus, the silent strength that Japanese people have passed down through generations.
To me, budō (the martial way) is not about defeating others. It’s about refining yourself, again and again. If even a small part of that can be felt through our experience, I’ll be truly happy.
“Kendo teaches us to face not only others, but ourselves.”
