Martial Arts: Kendo

Kendo is the Japanese sport of sword fighting where Shinai (bamboo swords), along with protective armour are used. This equipment is used for training in place of the razor-sharp metal swords that Japanese martial arts are famous for. A very popular sport in Japan, Kendo developed from the fighting art of Kenjutsu, which dates back to the 11th century and was the most important martial art of the samurai. Kenjutsu was practised by many famous swordsmen, such as Miyamoto Musashi, author of The Book of Five Rings.

Kendo

Today's Kendo rules: In a match, the competitors wear special protective gear and strike at each others ead, chest or hand with the bamboo sword.

Of all martial arts currently practiced in the West, Kendo retains the most traditional image, not at least because of their traditional-looking protective armour and face mask and the typical Kendo-swords (Shinai).

Origin of Kendo: Japan

Contribute! If you are an exponent of Kendo (or should we have by accident or ignorance omitted your style elsewhere on this site), we invite you to send us a little paragraph or two that highlight certain aspects of Kendo, including history, current grand-masters, special features, strengths and weaknesses, and similarities and differences to related martial arts. Please send your contribution to or use the form below.