Kendogu vs bogu

by Olga
(Ukraine)

In one of the previous articles you have pointed that “All Japan Kendo Federation uses kendōgu not bōgu anymore.” Can you please explain the principle difference of these terms and why do you think this change was made? And also when was it passed?


Thank you!

Kendo-Guide.Com: Thanks for your question.

1. Can you please explain the principle difference of these terms?

Bōgu means equipment that protects. Kendōgu means equipment for kendo.

2. Why do you think this change was made?

Even in Japan we have different names for kendo equipment for example, we used to call zekken for tare “tare name”. I am sure some people call it different too.

The more international kendo has become, the federation thought that they should use the same names. I think they did not want to confuse non-Japanese. This is only my guess.

3. When was it passed?

According to this pdf, it is dated July 22, 2013. Not sure when it was passed but this is issued on that date.

Hope this helps.

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