What a Weekend; Seminar and Tournament

This weekend's seminar and shiai reminded me to refocus on the simple, crucial goal of not getting hit—practical pointers on timing, controlling your opponent, and mindset that any serious kendoka can put to work immediately.

Continue reading "What a Weekend; Seminar and Tournament"

Lesson Notes: May 18, 2026 - Sword Control in Kiri-Kaeshi

Learn how to use the sword with less unnecessary tension and connect that control to kiri-kaeshi practice. This post explains relaxed shoulders, stable core movement, receiving footwork, and use of the shinogi so your practice becomes more precise and purposeful.

Continue reading "Lesson Notes: May 18, 2026 - Sword Control in Kiri-Kaeshi"

Module 4: Bridging the Gap - From Beginner to Intermediate

This lesson helps you connect grip, footwork, and striking into a more refined kendo practice. Learn how to keep the left hand centered, use both hands correctly, and build a smoother, sharper men strike before adding armor.

Continue reading "Module 4: Bridging the Gap - From Beginner to Intermediate"

Nihon Kendo Kata No.3 — Tsuki Nayashi Tsuki

Nihon Kendo Kata No.3 — Tsuki Nayashi Tsuki (also called Tsuki Kaeshi Tsuki). Both start in gedan, and shitachi must show mercy without losing intensity, because uchitachi can attack at any moment. This detailed breakdown covers the technique, timing, and meaning behind the kata.

Continue reading "Nihon Kendo Kata No.3 — Tsuki Nayashi Tsuki"

Advice for goals in Kendo at 56 years of age (as a re-starter)

Dear Imafuji-San, First of all thanks a lot for your great website and the may helpful Videos. Keep on that way! I kindly ask you about an personal advice

Continue reading "Advice for goals in Kendo at 56 years of age (as a re-starter)"

Bokutō vs. Shinai Grip: Are You Holding Them Differently? ⚔️

Grip your Bokutō differently from your Shinai? This question came from Ivan, one of our Patreon members. When I went back to the Dōjō to analyse my own movements, I discovered that I do change my grip — and you should too! Find out why keeping your Kensaki slightly higher makes a big difference in Kata, both for yourself and your partner.

Continue reading "Bokutō vs. Shinai Grip: Are You Holding Them Differently? ⚔️"

How to Fix Your Kote Strike so You will Strike It Properly

In this lesson, Hiro shows you what goes wrong with a kote strike and how to correct it. You'll find out the key adjustments that let you hit kote cleanly and with proper technique.

Continue reading "How to Fix Your Kote Strike so You will Strike It Properly"

Module 2 - Lesson 2.4: The "Wet Tenugui" Secret: Good vs. Bad Tenouchi

In this lesson, Masahiro Imafuji uses Murayama Sensei's wet tenugui demonstration to explain the difference between good and bad tenouchi. You'll see why relaxing your grip at the right moment — rather than squeezing continuously — makes your strikes sharper and more effective.

Continue reading "Module 2 - Lesson 2.4: The "Wet Tenugui" Secret: Good vs. Bad Tenouchi"

Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa — New Translation by Alexander Bennett

A brand-new, unabridged English translation of Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa is finally here — translated by Alexander Bennett, a kendo and budo scholar who personally knows the spirit of the sword. If you've ever wondered how Musashi's legendary journey of struggle, ego, and self-refinement connects to your own keiko, this is the book to read.

Continue reading "Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa — New Translation by Alexander Bennett"

Toyama Gakko Kenjutsu Lesson 1924 from National Film Archive of Japan

This is definitely an interesting video clip from 1924, posted by the National Film Archive of Japan. When I watched this for the first time, I thought, “Wow, this is a very interesting video.” Also, the way they train still works in modern kendo.

Continue reading "Toyama Gakko Kenjutsu Lesson 1924 from National Film Archive of Japan"

How to Find a Real Kendo Dojo Near You (Avoid Fake Dojos)

Learn how to find a legitimate kendo dojo and avoid fake martial arts schools. Discover why KendoNearMe.com helps beginners start authentic kendo training.

Continue reading "How to Find a Real Kendo Dojo Near You (Avoid Fake Dojos)"

Where to Buy Kendo Gear: My 3 Trusted Shops

Tired of kendo gear that pinches? Discover the 3 shops I trust for perfect bogu and shinai. Stop guessing and start training with confidence!

Continue reading "Where to Buy Kendo Gear: My 3 Trusted Shops"

Kendo Guide 2026 is officially launching! ⚔️

After a short delay, the Kendo Guide 2026 course begins this Wednesday, February 18th. This program is built on years of deep research into movement mechanics and focuses on practical problem-solving for kendoka. Whether you want to master the small men strike or achieve true ki-ken-tai-icchi, this structured guide is designed to help you reach your next milestone.

Continue reading "Kendo Guide 2026 is officially launching! ⚔️"

Document pdf simple mais complet sur les 10 katas ?

Bonjour, Je recherche un document qui décrive les 7 premiers katas de Kendo avec détail et explication en français. merci Kendo-Guide.Com: Hello Chapuis

Continue reading "Document pdf simple mais complet sur les 10 katas ?"

My Mother’s Death and the Lessons Contained in Kendo

This is not just a story about loss. It is a reflection on life, war, family, and the quiet strength we inherit from those who raised us.

In this deeply personal post, I share the passing of my mother and the powerful lessons her life—and death—have revealed to me about Kendo, spirit, and what it truly means to cultivate strength in a peaceful world.

Continue reading "My Mother’s Death and the Lessons Contained in Kendo"