Makoto
Co-founder / Instructor at Kendo Spirit
About Me
Hi, I’m Makoto — co-founder and instructor 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.”
