WELCOME TO SYDNEY KENDO CLUB

Sydney Kendo Club provides an integrated course schedule of learning through exploration, scrutiny, and self-reflection. Our classes combine hands-on experience with knowledge-based teaching. Contact Sydney Kendo Club to learn more.

WHAT IS KENDO?

The Concept of Kendo

To discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana (sword).

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The Purpose of Practicing Kendo

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To mould the mind and body,
To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
And through correct and rigid training,
To strive for improvement in the art of kendo,
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honour,
To associate with others with sincerity,
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
This will make one be able:
To love his/her country and society,
To contribute to the development of culture,
And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.

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(All Japan Kendo Federation, 20 March 1975)

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Please also see the YouTube interview given by Yukiko Takami produced by ANA on our Video channel here.

The Mindset of Kendo Instruction 

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The Significance of the Shinai

For the correct transmission and development of kendo, efforts should be made to teach the correct way of handling the shinai in accordance with the principles of the sword.

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Kendo is a way where the individual cultivates one's mind (the self) by aiming for shin-ki-ryoku-itchi (unification of mind, spirit and technique) utilsing the shinai. The "shinai-sword" should be not only directed at one's opponent but also at the self. Thus, the primary aim of instruction is to encourage the unification of mind, body and shinai through training in this discipline. 

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Reiho - Etiquette

When instructing, emphasis should be placed on etiquette to encourage respect for partners, and nurture people with a dignified and humane character. 

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Even in competitive matches, importance is placed on upholding etiquette in kendo. The primary emphasis should thus be placed on instruction in the spirit and forms of reiho (etiquette) so that the practitioner can develop a modest attitude to life, and realize the ideal of koken-chiai (the desire to achieve mutual understanding and betterment of humanity through kendo).

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Lifelong Kendo

While providing instruction, students should be encouraged to apply the full measure of care to issues of safety and health, and to devote themselves to development of their character throughout their lives. 

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Kendo is a "way of life" that successive generations can learn together. The prime objective of instructing kendo is to encourage the practitioner to discover and define their way in life through training in the techniques of kendo. Thus, the practitioner will be able to develop a rich outlook on life and be able to put the culture of kendo into use, thereby benefitting from its value in their daily lives through increased social vigour.

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(All Japan Kendo Federation, 14 March 2007)