Job Discussion Forums

[tofuman]

Anyone learning Kendo in Japan? The art uses a bamboo "sword," and some scary looking protective gear. I'd like to hear about experiences and opportunities in Japan related to this martial art.

[Like a Rolling Stone]

Yes, you KEN DO kendo in Japan. There are loads of clubs and many school kids do it too. I think it will be easy to find a club but I don't do it because I like peace

[Yawarakaijin]

I've been playing kendo for 12 years now and its a great way to keep in shape and meet people. I started playing in highschool at the local Japanese culture centre in Toronto. I say go for it if you are interested, its a great sport.

Things to be aware of. I can't speak for all dojo's but I can give you my experience. It seems to have been taken pretty seriously at my dojo. The guys were really intense and there were not too many non Japanese-Canadians there, for some it can be a pretty intimidating experience. I've only ever joined a session in Japan a few times and I gotta say it was much more intense.

Moving in ranks (there are no belts) can be a very slow procedure. The bogu (armour) can be incredibly expensive. I had a pretty hard time even finding bogu in my size. The Japanese are getting bigger though so I'm not sure if you would have the problem I had in Canada years ago.

If you have any more specific feel free to post them or IM them to me.

[Like a Rolling Stone]