Kyumeikan

剣道体験/Kendo Trial Session for Japanese-English Translators

2009-11-28T07:43:00.008+09:00

It's not unusual to have foreigners come to Kyumeikan for Kendo 'taiken' (体験) but on Nov 14 Kyumeikan recenty hosted a group of 13 Japanese translators who wanted to experience Kendo to be able to explain it better and introduce Japan's foremost martial art to their foreign clients.

Evidently, age is no barrier to enjoying Kendo! To the right are Kyumeikan's regular members.

It was interesting to see foreigners (Alex from Austria, front centre, and Domingo from Dominican Republic, upper right hand corner) teaching the locals how to wear Kendo bogu (protective gear). Kyumeikan has a good mix of locals and foreigners training together under Kubo sensei, as well as international dojos in Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Ekaterinburg and China (Wenzhou, Yantai) and Hong Kong.

The group got a taste of basic kendo moves...

...and lots of limited edition Kyumeikan omiyage (souveniers) to bring home. To the left of the lady carrying a stack of Kyumeikan towels is Kubo Sensei.

Tokyo Kendo Kyumeikan 2009.11.07

2009-11-07T00:45:00.002+09:00

Sensei in Yekaterinburg

2009-10-11T06:17:00.002+09:00

To Enrich and Be Enriched by Way of the Sword

2009-06-09T07:47:00.002+09:00

Kendo, the ancient Japanese martial art of fencing with long bamboo swords, is attracting increased attention from foreigners even as its popularity wanes among the Japanese.

The spread of kendo abroad has been driven in part by 65-year-old Akira Kubo, the sensei who directs Kyumeikan Kendo Dojo, whose martial arts academies extend from Tokyo to China and Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Israel, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Lithuania.

Mr. Kubo, who holds a 7th dan ranking in kendo -- just below the top-ranking 8th dan -- has traveled to more than 50 countries to teach and promote kendo since 1970 when he took over the leadership of Kyumeikan, the dojo started by his father. "The Wall Street Juornal"...

2009-02-27T18:18:00.005+09:00

Dear Readers,

It has been a very long time since I`ve been able to update this blog, but I am happy to provide you with some news about Kubo senseis activities along with a few new pictures.

Kubo sensei has been to China to teach Kendo and was also able to attend the wedding of one of Kyumeikan Dojos members. Please enjoy

Travel to Taiwan

2009-01-11T10:56:00.003+09:00

In December last year there was one very important date in Kancho Sensei`s schedule. The travel to Taiwan to practice with Liu Sensei. Liu Sensei is the president of the Taiwanese Kendo Federation and a very good friend of Kancho Sensei. Together with some Kyumeikan Dojo members and Kendoka from Chichibu, Kancho Sensei went to Taiwan and enjoyed excellent Kendo and the hospitality of Taiwan and its people.

Christmas in Lithuania

2009-01-11T10:44:00.004+09:00

Today I would like to present you a very nice picture of a Christmas party in our Lithuania Kyumeikan Dojo. Under the care of Ricardas Zilaitis, a huge number of children practices the Japanese Art of Kendo.

We wish them all the best for the future and hope for many more children to join.

2008-12-28T00:12:00.007+09:00

Dear Readers,

It has been a very long time since I last updated this blog and I sincerely apologize for it. The last month was a very busy one and I will try through the next few posts to inform you about what has been going on.

I would like to start with a very happy memory. After the Kendo examination last month we had a big party with more than 70 people attending. There was even a band that entertained us with fantastic music. Please enjoy the beautiful pictures.

Kyumeikan Dojo

Congratulations

2008-11-26T18:46:00.004+09:00

This Monday Kendo examination took place in Itabashi district and as you can see on the picture, many, many members of the Kyumeikan family participated. We had guests from Kazakhstan, Hong Kong and Russia. Of course Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo members were giving their best as well.

It was a tough day, but I`m happy to announce that nearly everyone passed. For the ones who couldn`t pass this time, let`s continue our practice together and there is no doubt it will work next time.

Once again, congratulations to everyone, it was a pleasure to welcome you all in Japan.

Kyumeikan Dojo

Hong Kong Kendo

2008-11-16T10:49:00.003+09:00

Today I would like to introduce Alex Chan and his wife from Hong Kong.

Alex Chan is a long time member of the Kyumeikan family and he came to Japan in order to take his 4th Dan examination.

We all wish him good luck and are looking forward to continue playing nice Kendo with him.

Sincerely,

Kyumeikan Dojo

Welcome at Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo

2008-11-16T10:23:00.011+09:00

Dear Readers,

It has been a long time since my last post on this blog, for which I sincerely apologize. We are now in Kendo examination time and preperations keep us all quite busy.

Lately we`ve had quite a few newcomers and guests and I would like to give you some impressions of the last few days.

As you can see, the Dojo is filled with life and all of us are very grateful to be able to spend time with our friends from all over the world.

Let us continue good Kendo.

Kyumeikan Dojo

PS: Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo wishes good luck to Mr. Wada and Mr. Chan who are taking their 4th Dan examination today.

One night at Kyumeikan Dojo

2008-11-01T09:05:00.005+09:00

This Friday we had a special event for the young ones at Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo.

An overnight stay, with delicious Curry rice, lots of games and fun.

Considering the time of the year we couldn`t camp outside, but that didn`t keep us from putting up tents, as you can see on the picture. Only after midnight it was possible to bring the kids to bed. A sign that they enjoyed the time very much we like to think.

To sum it up, a big success for everyone and definitely something to have again in the near future.

In the name of the Dojo I would also like to express a big thank you to the hard working mothers that blessed us with their home made Curry.

Kyumeikan Dojo

Mr. Ken-Marti Vaher from Estonia

2008-10-27T18:07:00.004+09:00

Dear Readers,

On Friday we had the pleasure to welcome Mr. Ken-Marti Vaher from Estonia.

Mr. Vaher, being a member of the Estonian Parliament, had a very tight schedule when coming to Japan, but he took the time and joined us at Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo for one practice. In this practice we could see Mr. Vahers excellent Kendo spirit and we also got to know his big interest in and appreciation of Japanese culture.

For all of us here at our Dojo it was a big pleasure and a memorable experience to practice with you Mr. Vaher.

Thank you very much and we hope to welcome you again in Japan one day.

Sincerely,

Alexander Trierweiler

Ukranian Kyokushin (極真会) Karate

2008-10-26T21:59:00.007+09:00

Last week we had the pleasure to welcome three Karate-ka from Ukraine.

They are practicing Kyokushin (極真会) Karate, a full contact style, that emphasizes realistic combat and physical toughness.

With a lot of discipline and enthusiasm they joined our training at Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo for one evening.

In the name of the Dojo and it's members I would like to thank them for coming and I hope we will see them again one day.

Cheers,

Alex

Congratulations Matt!

2008-10-22T20:51:00.024+09:00

Matt wasn`t seen at our Dojo for the last six months and we missed him at the weekend practices.

The reason for his absence is a very good one and even has a name.

Joshua Alan Heimerdinger, born in April this year.

Congratulations from Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo and all of its members to you Matt and your family.

Cheers,

Alex

PS: When you`ve grown up a little bit, we hope to play good Kendo with you Joshua.

Kendo made in China

2008-10-18T22:19:00.012+09:00

Welcome and hello to Kyuu Sensei (邱棟先生) from China, member of our big Kyumeikan Kendo Family.

From Wednesday, the 15th of October, we, the members of Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo are having the pleasure to practice with Kyuu Sensei from Yantai, China.
He came to Japan to have a 2 weeks practice in order to prepare for his 4th Dan examination in April next year.

Kyuu Sensei's visit is just one of many proves, that Kendo brings people from all over the world together. So let's enjoy those experiences!

Cheers,

Alex

Welcome on board Alex

2008-10-16T00:13:00.002+09:00

As you all may have gathered, I have handed responsibility for Kyumeikan's English language blog over to our very own Alex Trierweiler. Alex joined us earlier this year from Austria, and hopes to spend the foreseeable future in Japan which is great news for our international Kyumeikan members!

In the short time Alex has been with us, he has shown great ability and strong dedication to Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo and will doubtless do an excellent job as our blog administrator and International Co-ordinator.

sincerely,

Jack Keane, International Director

Guests from Korea

2008-10-15T20:28:00.004+09:00

안녕하세요! ("Annyeong Haseyo!")

Means hello in Korean. These welcoming words could be heard a few days ago at Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo, as we had two guests from Korea visiting to try Kendo.

I Kyong-Ha (female, 24 years) and So Te-Myong (male, 22 years) both took the chance to come to Japan on a Working Holiday Visa for one year.

Besides working they are eager to experience as much as possible in the Land of the Rising Sun. Taking a look into Kendo was a good start for this purpose and we wish them all the best for the future.

Cheers,

Alex

Obituary notice: Vitold Novakowski

2008-10-14T21:55:00.008+09:00

With great sadness I'm delivering this message.

Vitold Novakowski, a great Kendoka from Poland, is no longer.
He passed away, far too young, far too early on the 11th of September this year.

Vitold Novakowski was one of the leading figures of Polish Kendo and its development. With great effort he tried to spread and popularize Kendo in his home country. This earned him a lot of acknowledgment and friends in the world of Kendo.

But for Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo he was more. For more than 30 years he has been a dear friend and companion for Kubo Sensei.
He even paid a visit to Japan this year on the 2nd of April to congratulate Kubo Sensei to the 50th anniversary of Kyumeikan Dojo.

The whole Kyumeikan Dojo Family would like to express its deepest condolences to Vitold Novakowski's family and friends.

Rest in Peace

Sincerely,

Alex

Nice to meet you!

2008-10-14T21:37:00.003+09:00

Dear Readers,

Pleased to meet you. My name is Alex and I've got a small announcement to make.
Our dear friend Jack Keane, who has been managing this blog right from the beginning on will unfortunately not be able to commit any longer to this site. A tight schedule forces him to concentrate all his energy on his work, so he asked me to take over the Kyumeikan Dojo Blog.
I'm very happy to comply to that.

From now on I will try my best to bring all the news to you, the readers.
I hope you will be satisfied with the results.

Sincerely,

Alex

Kyumeikan Wedding!

2008-10-03T15:49:00.002+09:00

We recently received some great news from our friends at Kyumeikan Hong Kong.

Lala and Joeson (pictured above), will be coming to Tokyo to wed at Meiji-jingu shrine in Harajuku on November 20th. Lala and Joeson have been practicing Kendo together under Ric Kwan at Kyumeikan Hong Kong for some time now. Congratulations to you both!!

General Meeting held at Headquarters in Tokyo

2008-09-22T11:23:00.004+09:00

Last evening, a number of Kyumeikan members were invited by Kubo Sensei to discuss the direction that Kyumeikan will take as a Kendo organization for the next 50 years. As many of you know, Kyumeikan is celebrating it's 50th anniversary, and Kubo Sensei is eager to clearly define the direction of the organization for the year's to come. Members had the opportunity to voice any concerns and wishes they had, and topics that were discussed included the various training methods used at the dojo and the biggest project of all: Kendo Infinity Ship 2020 - more details on that later. The other important event of the evening was the visit of Wallace Wan Sensei (5th Dan) and his student Chung-san from Hong Kong. Wan Sensei was visiting Tokyo to take his Ni-dan examination in Iaido which he passed with flying colours! A great evening was had by all, and once the serious business of Kyumeikan's future had been discussed, everyone enjoyed some great food, drinks and friendly discussion.

Some Pictures from Kubo Sensei's visit to Kyumeikan Almaty

2008-09-14T20:38:00.005+09:00

Kubo Sensei's visit to our Almaty dojo will surely be remembered in years to come as very influential in promoting kendo in Kazakhstan. He had the support and assistance of some of Kyumeikan's finest, including Jinny who accompanied him from Tokyo, and Richka the chief instructor at Kyumeikan Lithuania. Kubo Sensei also had the great experience of Arregui Sensei from Spain to draw on. Arregui Sensei is a long time student and friend of Kubo Sensei's who has kindly dedicated a whole month of his time to teach kendo at the Almaty dojo. It goes without saying that our good friends in Kyumeikan Almaty showed the visitors the greatest hospitality, and made it a truly memorable visit for them.

Chankonabe dinner with Nakamura Sensei

2008-09-14T20:10:00.003+09:00

On Thursday evening July 31st, a small group from Kyumeikan and our visitors from Taiwan were honoured to host Nakamura Sensei at Chankoishi, the Honorary President of Kyumeikan. The festivities got underway at about 5.45pm when Nakamura Sensei arrived and everyone enjoyed a delicious Chankonabe meal. Liu Sensei from the Taiwan Kendo Association finally had the opportunity to meet Nakamura Sensei and can be seen in the attached photograph presenting him with a plate from Taiwan Kendo. For those of you who don't know, Nakamura Sensei is 90 years young and still practising Kendo - truly an inspiration to us all.

A visit to Meishinkan dojo in Chichibu

2008-09-14T19:48:00.005+09:00

Chia-An Liu Sensei , and our Kancho Kubo Sensei were invited along with a group of Kyumeikan members by Meishinkan dojo in Chichibu on July 27th to celebrate Liu Sensei's recent success in the 8th examination of Kendo - the highest rank obtainable in Kendo through examination. A wonderful day was had by all, thanks to the hospitality of our friends at Meishinkan. Upon arrival in Chichibu, the group from Kyumeikan was whisked away to a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. After lunch, everyone proceeded to the historic Meishinkan dojo to enjoy keiko for little under an hour. The highlights of the keiko were definitely Liu Sensei's shiai and the team match between the group from Taiwan and a selection of Meishinkan members. Everyone was delighted to have the opportunity to play kendo at such a famous dojo. Keiko was followed by a visit to a nearby onsen to relax and soak. The evening was wrapped up with a return to the restaurant where everyone had enjoyed lunch, to enjoy a beautifully presented evening meal where everyone had the opportunity to sit down and get to know each other. Thanks to all who were involved and in particular to our colleagues at Meishinkan who made it a truly memorable day!

"The Death Dealing Sword"

2008-09-04T21:37:00.003+09:00

Heiho Kadensho/"The Life Giving Sword"

Weapons are instruments of ill omen. The Way of Heaven finds them repugnant. The Way of Heaven is to use them only when necessary..

From the 6th chapter

2008-09-01T01:57:00.003+09:00

When Lord Takanobu was at the Battle of Bungo, a messenger came from the enemy camp bearing sake and food. Takanobu wanted to partake of this quickly, but the men at his side stopped him, saying, "Presents from the enemy are likely to be poisoned. This is not something that a general should eat."
Takanobu heard them out and then said, "Even if it is poisoned, how much of an effect would that have on things? Call the messenger here!" He then broke open the barrel right in front of the messenger, drank three large cups of sake, offered the messenger one too, gave him a reply, and sent him back to his camp...Hagakure...

Spotlight On: Kaname Nezu - Cellist and Kendoka

2008-08-28T00:23:00.003+09:00

Kaname started kendo at Kyumeikan in January 2007, the coldest time of the year here at Kyumeikan! We like to think of him as our immensely talented Cello player with a big kiai - and he's a fine kendoka too. Earlier this year he acquired Sho-dan level in Kendo, and will challenge for Ni-dan at the next examination in November. Good luck with your kendo Kaname, and mind those fingers!!

Jun Henin returns to Kyumeikan after 17 years

2008-08-28T00:12:00.003+09:00

Let's extend a warm welcome to Jun Henin from France, who has returned to Kyumeikan for the first time since 1991. When Jun first came to Japan to study Kendo in 1991, he trained here at Kyumeikan under Kubo-sensei for a short time. Now having taken the opportunity to return to Japan with his family, he has once again joined us to continue his Kendo training. Welcome back Jun!

Kazakhstan News covers Kubo Sensei's Visit

2008-08-25T00:18:00.007+09:00

Kubo Sensei's visit to Kyumeikan's Almaty dojo was covered by the local news...

Thanks to Jinny for providing the video for this post!

Happy Birthday Kubo Sensei !!!!

2008-08-10T18:23:00.002+09:00

Today, August 10th, is without a doubt the most important day of the year in the Kyumeikan calendar.

That's because today we celebrate the birthday of our wonderful teacher, Sensei Akira Kubo.

Let's all join together in wishing him a happy birthday and thank him for his endless dedication and hard work in teaching us all. Thank you Sensei, and happy birthday!!!!

A Visit from the Aguirre family of Guatemala

2008-08-04T20:59:00.003+09:00

We were honored to host Mr.Pedro Aguirre and his family all the way from Guatemala today. We also had a number of Kyumeikan kendoka in attendance to welcome our guests. It was a tough keiko in the 36 degree heat, but everyone was up to the task. Pedro gave us a wonderful demonstration of how usagi-tobi should be done, and was awarded a special certificate by Kubo-sensei for his efforts. We would like to thank the whole family for coming to join us this afternoon for Kendo.

Kyumeikan Welcomes Howard Ma

2008-06-25T13:50:00.003+09:00

"Hello, my name is Howard Ma. I am from Vancouver, Canada. I had the opportunity to visit Kyumeikan dojo this past Saturday and it was really great to see such great Kendo spirit present. I have been working in Tokyo for a year now and have not practised Kendo for a while. I look forward to improving my Kendo under the guidance of Sensei Kubo and follow dojo members."

Howard will have his first practice at Kyumeikan this coming Saturday - let's all welcome him to our family and wish him the best of luck in his Kendo training!

Bye, Bye for Now Benjamin..

2008-06-20T22:57:00.003+09:00

This past week one of our family, Stefan from Germany departed Japan for his home country. Stefan joined us earlier this year and quickly endeared himself to us all here at the dojo. Last Friday night we had a big party in his honour, and he attended his last practice on Saturday. In the short time he was here, Stefan passed the 1-kyu examinations in both Kendo and Iaido! Stefan, we wish you good luck and hope to see you soon again in Tokyo!

One's whole life should be like...

2008-06-05T14:39:00.000+09:00

As Yasuda Ukyo said about offering up the last wine cup, only the end of things is important. One's whole life should be like this. When guests are leaving, the mood of being reluctant to say farewell is essential. If this mood is lacking, one will appear bored and the day and evening's conversation will disappear. In all dealings with people it is essential to have a fresh approach. One should constantly give the impression that he is doing something exceptional. It is said that this is possible with but a little understanding. "Hagakure"

The brave men

2008-06-04T20:06:00.001+09:00

The brave men of old times were for the most part rowdies. As they were of the disposition to be out running amuck, their vitality was strong and they were brave. When I had doubts about this and asked, Tsunetomo said, "It is understandable that since their vitality was strong they were generally rough and went about running amuck. These days rowdiness is nonexistent because man's vitality has weakened. Vitality has fallen behind, but man's character has improved. Valor is yet a different thing. Although men have become gentle these days because of the lack of vitality, this does not mean that they are inferior in being crazy to die. That has nothing to do with vitality. "Hagakure"

Dany from Switzerland

2008-05-24T23:40:00.001+09:00

I am Dany from Switzerland. Today I had the opportunity to visit the Kyumeikan
Dojo. Being a beginner my understanding of Kendo is still very poor but I was really
impressed by what I have seen. Kendo is really challenging for me but I hope to get better withÂ time. I enjoyed the practise a lot and would like to thank Kubo Sensei for his
hospitality. Best regards to all Dojo's member.

streamline

2008-05-23T00:11:00.002+09:00

A certain priest said that if one thoughtlessly crosses a river of unknown depths and shallows, he will die in its currents without ever reaching the other side or finishing his business. This is the same as when one is indiscriminately eager in being a retainer without understanding the customs of the times or the likes and dislikes of the master and, as a result, is of no use and brings ruin upon himself. To try to enter the good graces of the master is unbecoming. One should consider first stepping back and getting some understanding of the depths and shallows and then work without doing anything the master dislikes. "Hagakure"

Peace

2008-05-19T09:42:00.004+09:00

I had been travel in Japan for three times and this is the third time. The first time I arrived Japan was 14 years ago.....the only thing I remember is lining up in the Disney land. The second and third time I travel to Japnan for the Kendo exam. I started kendo for one reason only, to be with the body. To have the mind, spirit and body fully establish, and be a healthy human being. Playing kendo should be happy, fun and interesting. I am not learning to kill, but I am learning to survive and protect the every of my love.

Hope peace be with you.
Jasmine Ho, Sze Man
From HKSAR (Hong Kong, China)

Kyumeikan examination

2008-05-19T03:11:00.004+09:00

Yesterday was examination day in Itabashi-ku. Members from Kyumeikan walked together to the nearby examination hall to test from 1-kyu to 2-dan. Many of our members were successful, and those who were not did their very best and showed their true Kyumeikan spirit to all those in attendance.A special mention should be made for Tadas Kisielius from Lithuania who despite picking up a severe ankle injury a few days prior to the examination, still put on his keikogi and hakama and turned up for the examination. Afterwards we celebrated together at the dojo with a party which stretched late into the evening. Those in attendance also had the opportunity to experience the Japanese tea ceremony courtesy of Yamada-sensei and Raimonda who is currently studying tea wth her for the month of May. A big congratulations to all!

when things are going well...

2008-05-15T08:24:00.002+09:00

It is said that much sake, self-pride and luxury are to be avoided by a samurai, There is no cause for anxiety when you are unhappy, but when you become a little elated, these three things become dangerous. Look at the human condition. It is unseemly for a person to become prideful and extravagant when things are going well. Therefore, it is better to have some unhappiness while one is still young, for if a person does not experience some bitterness, his disposition will not settle down. A person who becomes fatigued when unhappy is useless. "Hagakure"

Takeshi Yasuda family

2008-05-10T18:56:00.008+09:00

Hi, Nice to meet you. My name is Takeshi Yasuda. I started kendo this year on April with my son Hidefumi Yasuda. It's the first time for us to play kendo, and I think it's very good for my health and it can help me to loose my weight. I think that for my son, practicing kendo will be a very good training for his mind and body and it will help him to be a well-bred person. The lessons are very hard, however I feel healthy after the training and that's why I would like to keep on practicing kendo.
I'm a doctor and I'm working in an emergency hospital which has opened 40 years ago(10years later than kyumeikan). The hostipal is called Yasuda Hospital. I hope I can do well both in my job and kendo (In japanese, the word "kyumei" has the same prounouciation as the word "rescue" which is pronounced "kyumei" as well) my second son has tried kendo before and he is very interested and wants to practice too. I hope my families will love each other more through kendo.

Matthew Bueler

2008-05-10T12:40:00.004+09:00

My name is Matthew Bueler. I am an American from Seattle Washington. Today, I joined Kyumeikan for a day of Kendo practice. This was my first time trying Kendo. I found it very challenging, but was also a great experience. All the students were very helpful in teaching me the basics. To anyone thinking of trying Kendo, you should come to Kyumeikan! You will be glad you did!

For this reason men of advanced years hid their age

2008-05-05T08:03:00.002+09:00

The resolution of the men of former times was deep. Those between the ages of thirteen and sixty went to the front lines. For this reason men of advanced years hid their age. "Hagakure"

初めまして。一昨日から入門した小上優です

2008-05-04T09:45:00.003+09:00

職業は大学生で哲学を先行しています。通っている大学は法政大学で、学年は四年生です。今は警察試験に向けて勉強していて、そのためにも剣道初段を持っていたいと思い、剣道を始めました。練習はハードですが、楽しいスポーツなので頑張っていきたいと思います。

Said that he died of fright!

2008-05-03T08:54:00.002+09:00

In China there was once a man who liked pictures of dragons, and his clothing and furnishings were all designed accordingly. His deep affection for dragons was brought to the attention of the dragon god, and one day a real dragon appeared before his window. It is said that he died of fright. He was probably a man who always spoke big words but acted differently when facing the real thing. "Hagakure"

Sebastian from Germany

2008-05-02T21:55:00.006+09:00

I am Sebastian from Germany. Today I had my first Kendo lesson in Tokyo. A friend invited me - and it was definitely an unforgettable experience. The 3 hours of Kendo were quite exhausting, however, it was really fun. I am sure that I go on practising Kendo when I am back in Germany. I also met some people from Lithuania. I am of the firm opinion that you will come through the same experience when you practise Kendo for the first time. So I can just say, keep on practising Kendo - you will definitely enjoy it. Best Wishes from Japan.
Sebastian

When you are resolved from the beginning

2008-05-02T06:25:00.003+09:00

There is something to be learned from a rainstorm. When meeting with a sudden shower, you try not to pet wet and run quickly along the road. But doing such things as passing under the eaves of houses, you still get wet. When you are resolved from the beginning, you will not be perplexed, though you still get the same soaking. This understanding extends to everything. "Hagakure"

Turn our backs on reason

2008-05-01T10:05:00.002+09:00

Because we do most things relying only on our own sagacity we become self-interested, turn our backs on reason, and things do not turn out well. As seen by other people this is sordid, weak, narrow and inefficient. When one is not capable of true intelligence, it is good to consult with someone of good sense. An advisor will fulfill the Way when he makes a decision by selfless and frank intelligence because he is not personally involved. This way of doing things will certainly be seen by others as being strongly rooted. It is, for example, like a large tree with many roots. One man's intelligence is like a tree that has been simply stuck in the ground. "Hagakure"

Giacomo Merello, I am italian

2008-04-30T21:44:00.004+09:00

Dear friends of the Kyumeikan Dojo,
My name is Giacomo Merello, I am italian, it's my second time in the Kyumeikan and I'm very happy to come in the very special year of the anniversary. I love practicing Kendo and Iaido and I hope we can meet again and practice together to make the spirit of real Japanese Budo stronger and international. Best regards to everyone and thank you, Giacomo Merello

Those things that are easily understood...

2008-04-30T09:01:00.002+09:00

In carefully scrutinizing the affairs of the past, we find that there are many different opinions about them, and that there are some things that are quite unclear. It is better to regard such things as unknowable. Lord Sanenori once said, "As for the things that we don't understand, there ere ways of understanding them. Furthermore, there are some things we understand just naturally, and again some that we can't understand no matter how hard we try. This is interesting." This is very profound. It is natural that one cannot understand deep and hidden things. Those things that are easily understood are rather shallow. "Hagakure"

come home

2008-04-28T23:38:00.004+09:00

Kendo for me is a way to ballance

2008-04-20T15:18:00.006+09:00

Hi, my name is Regina, I started Kendo a year ago. I practice Kendo together with my husband and our 13 year-old son, we are a "Kendo family".
Practising Kendo for me is a way to ballance my physical and mental strength and feel good about myself. I also enjoy the friendly atmosphere of our "dojo", we are like a big family, with japanese and foreign members. We all respect and admire our strong but gentle "sensei".
There is no age to start Kendo, and once you start you feel so good about it that you don't want to stop it anymore. I hope you also have the chance to try Kendo once in your lif.

First intention, then enlightenment

2008-04-18T08:10:00.001+09:00

It is spiritless to think that you cannot attain to that which you have seen and heard the masters attain. The masters are men. You are also a man. If you think that you will be inferior in doing something, you will be on that road very soon
. Master lttei said , "Confucius was a sage because he had the will to become a scholar when he was fifteen years old. He was not a sage because he studied later on." This is the same as the Buddhist maxim, "First intention, then enlightenment.'' "Hagakure"

Has made a mistake?

2008-04-17T08:55:00.004+09:00

It is said that one should not hesitate to correct himself when he has made a mistake. If he corrects himself without the least bit of delay, his mistakes will quickly disappear. But when he tries to cover up a mistake, it will become all the more unbecoming and painful. When words that one should not use slip out, if one will speak his mind quickly and clearly, those words will have no effect and he will not be obstructed by worry. If there is, however, someone who blames a person for such a thing, one should be prepared to say something like, "I have explained the reason for my careless speech. There is nothing else to be done if you will not listen to reason. Since I said it unwittingly, it should be the same as if you didn't hear it. No one can evade blame." And one should never talk about people or secret matters. Furthermore, one should only speak according to how he judges his listener's feelings. "Hagakure"

As this is something that everyone desires

2008-04-16T07:25:00.003+09:00

Master lttei said, "Whatever one prays for will be granted. Long ago there were no matsutake mushrooms in our province. Some men who saw them in the Kamigata area prayed that they might grow here, and nowadays they are growing all over Kitagama. In the future I would like to have Japanese cypress grow in our province. As this is something that everyone desires, I predict it for the future. This being so, everyone should pray for it." "Hagakure"

Nakamura Sensei visit to Kyumeikan

2008-04-15T22:04:00.008+09:00

Last night we were greatly honored to receive a visit from Nakamura Tsuruji-sensei, Vice-President of the All-Japan Dojo Federation. Following a light supper and discussion with Kubo-sensei, Nakamura-sensei watched a portion of the evening Kendo practice and made a very kind speech, throughout which he commended Kubo-sensei for his efforts in promoting Kendo on an international level. Though Nakamura-sensei is now 90 years young, he has a vitality and strength of spirit that serves as an inspiration to us all.

Witold Nowakowski and Jarek Romacki to Kyumeikan

2008-04-11T18:57:00.003+09:00

Serdeczne pozdrowienia od dwoch Polakow, ktorzy odwiedzili Kyumeikan w kwietniu 2008 roku. All the best for all Kyumeikan members from two Polish kendo players, who visited Kyumeikan in April 2008.
Witold Nowakowski (Polish Kendo Federation) & Jarek Romacki (Szczecin Kendo Club)

foto: Witold Nowakowski, Jarek Romacki, Kubo Sensei,

Kyumeikan and Ian MicKing

2008-04-11T15:37:00.013+09:00

Kyumeikan Dojo visited mr. Ian McMicking, who arrivied to Japan from Australia before 35 Years. He is professor of music University, worker of Asahi culture center, have 3 kendo Dan and 3 Dan of Iaido. We are happy with visit of so warm and gentle man.

Kyumeikan

2008-04-10T23:54:00.002+09:00

Enter into nothing else

2008-04-10T01:33:00.003+09:00

Be true to the thought of the moment and avoid distraction. Other than continuing to exert yourself, enter into nothing else, but go to the extent of living single thought by single thought. "Hagakure"

Kyumeikan Dojo from Russia

2008-04-08T23:40:00.008+09:00

Today Kyumeikan dojo had guests - the winer of international Kyokushinkai competition Oleg Vekshin (Russia) and his coach Denis Kurcianin. Both fighters are from Jekaterinburg (Ural country). They came to visit Kubo Sensei with compliments, good news and gifts from Nikolai Sharov, who will hold kyu exam on November, 2008.

at picture from the left to the right : Oleg Vekshin, Denis Kurcianin,next: Nikolai Sharov, Kubo Sensei

Meeting wiht people

2008-04-08T11:06:00.000+09:00

Meeting with people should be a matter of quickly grasping their temperament and reacting appropriately to this person and that. Especially with an extremely argumentative person, after yielding considerably one should argue him down with superior logic, but without sounding harsh, and in a fashion that will allow no resentment to be left afterwards. This is a function of both the heart and words. This was an opinion given by a priest concerning personal encounters . "Hagakure"

Visit to Kyumeikan David Tang

2008-04-08T01:44:00.001+09:00

Kyumeikan Dojo was visit us, longevous kendo enshrined Hong Kong, David Tang, he more than 35 years before from Hong Kongo to Tokyo Kymeikan Dojo was go to up qualification of kendo five years ago he helped Yantai (China) rise up kendo, now he's living in Shanghai and he have kendo club.
at picture: from the left to the right : Oka San, David Tang, Kancho Sensei, David Tang partner, Suzuki San.

Stefan Kirschnick german student

2008-04-07T21:48:00.000+09:00

Stefan Kirschnick, a german student living in Ingolstadt is also practicing Kendo at Kyumeikan.
I have met him on the weekend. He is currently working in an internship at Mitsubishi Fuso in Tokyo. He started Kendo 2 months ago at Kyumeikan.
He told me that his Kendo experience so far has been amazing and that he is enjoying it a lot. Even though it brings a lot of hardship , especially at the beginning, he told me that the very challenge of Kendo is to overcome these and improve oneself continously.
He also appreciates the friendship and helpfulness of all the members of Kyumeikan dojo , which is something very special.
Because there are also some foreigners practicing kendo in the dojo, it is even easier with their help to improve at the beginning.
Stefan wants to continue Kendo until June and will take his 1kyu exam in May.
Lets hope that he will make it!

Linas from Lithuania

2008-04-07T21:26:00.000+09:00

My name is Linas Didvalis. I came from Lithuania and now live in Tokyo and study political sience at Waseda university.
Ricardas was very kind to invite me to come to Tokyo Kyumeikan Dojo and try kendo first time in my life. When I came here I didn't know what to expect and was open-minded for new experiences.
My first keigo was quite interesting and a bit a chalenge to me. It wasn't too difficult, but there are many things to learn. I imagine that one has to practice kendo for some time to understand it fully.
Personally it wasn't something very exciting to me and I don't plan to become good at kendo. But I met some people who liked it very much. So I would recommend tro try kendo for everyone at least once in their life and see what they feel and what experiences they get.

Five Ring

2008-04-06T22:58:00.000+09:00

Musashi, born samurai in 1584, was such a ronin. Beginning at the age of thirteen, Musashi had bout with over sixty swordsmen before reaching his thirtieth birthday. it is said he never lost in these individual encounters. he fought with the long sword, the short sword, wooden swords, oars and fence posts, just about anything available. "the book of Five Ring"

Oskar Simon start to Kyumeikan

2008-04-06T12:48:00.000+09:00

Hello, my name is Oscar Simon, I am from Spain. I want train in Kyumeikan Dojo by 3 motnhs, and I asked it to Kubo Sensei, I am very happy by this . In Spain my sensei is Alfonso Arregui.
I am now shoudan, and I hope to be soon 2 dan. I am studing too japanese language. Matane.

preface to the First Edition BUSHIDO

2008-04-05T23:48:00.000+09:00

"No religion! How do you impart moral education?" The question stunned me at the time. For the moral precept I learned in my childhood days were not given in schools, and not until I began to analyse the different elements that formed my notions of right and wrong, did i find that it was Bushido that breathed them into my nostrils...
Inazo Nitobe

Today started men from Austria

2008-04-05T12:15:00.000+09:00

Alexander Trierweiler started Kendo today. He's in Japan to study the Japanese language. In order to learn about the Japanese culture as well and to find good friends he decided to join the Kyumeikan Dojo. He thinks that the training is hard but everyone is really friendly and welcoming towards him. He's looking forward to continue and get better every time.