Like all previous winners of this contest, I felt shock and surprise when Tozando informed me that I was selected as the winner to travel to Kyoto, Japan. And yes, I pinched myself when I saw the email! All I could think about was how to take this opportunity and make it an experience not only to benefit my kendo but also my life. After all, this trip was a once in a life experience.
This article by Mihai Dutescu(Tozando 2019 Essay contest Winner) takes a look at the objectives of kendo and why we should embrace the difficulty that lies ahead on our chosen path. Kendo as a way of life is hard Choosing to practice kendo as a way of life as opposed Read More
I have also learned to put more weight on the mental side of the game Hayashi-san, you taking Kendo Kyoshi 7-dan while still being in your 30s without once failing an examination. How do you feel about it now? Well, previously I was thinking primarily about my own kendo, but Read More
This article by Tyler Duffield explores the interesting relationship between Japanese budo and the Olympics. The Olympics and Budo: a Questionable Mix With the coming inclusion of Karate in the 2020 Tokyo Games, it is timely to pause and think about the effect of Olympic inclusion on Judo, possible ramifications Read More
Kyushu – the Land of Kendo Powerhouses Kendo is a martial art that has been practiced all over Japan and more and more all over the world. People who have some knowledge of kendo will likely know that Kyushu, out of all regions in Japan, is particularly renowned for producing Read More
Maai In the second article, let’s talk about the sword, which relates to skill. The “sword” is about fully exhibiting everything that you have acquired through your daily training. This is where the fruits of your daily training are tested. You also need the insight to judge your opponent’s skill, Read More
I feel like the current me is stronger than the me last year Kyohei Hayashida (Fukui, teacher, 24) 2nd round During his years at Tsukuba university, he experienced being Japanese champion in both individual and team tournaments. Last year, 2 years after graduation, he entered the main tournament of the Read More
In the modern era, people will tend to eat three main meals a day; being strongly advised not to skip breakfast. In Japan, three meals a day had become the norm by the Meiji Era (1868-1912), however in Sengoku Japan, two meals a day was the norm. It could even Read More
Matsumoto’s brilliant performance helps Japan see off advancing rivals It was the first time in 18 years that the World Champs were held in Japan, and the 16th edition played at the Nihon Budokan saw Japan and South Korea fight to the death. The rivalry between the two nations was Read More
“My aim was the men when my opponent comes out. My goals was to win 6 times.” Shinichiro Hirano (Saitama, Saitama Police, 35) Round of 16 (3rd round) High grade kenshi who graduated from Aoyama Gakuin University and entered Saitama Police achieved his first appearance at the tournament at age Read More
