Welcome to Dublin Kendo Kobukai
Learn Authentic Japanese Weapon Arts
Beginners Course - fully booked!
Come learn the Way of the Japanese Sword in Dublin Kendo, the home of Authentic Japanese Weapon Arts. Here, under the guidance of our qualified instructors you can study the "Way of the Sword". Suitable for young and old, complete beginners and experienced athletes!
An inspirational mini-documentary from the Irish Martial Arts Commission on Dublin Kendo Kobukai member Sophie on her journey from beginner to International Team Captain.
Learn more about Kendo
What is Kendo?
Kendo means "Way of the Sword". It is a traditional Japanese martial art of sword-fighting which was developed as a safe way for Samurai to practice their swordsmanship.
Physically Exciting
Kendo is a physically and mentally challenging activity that combines Martial Arts etiquette such as respect for your teachers and opponent, with regular physical practice. Physical practice or "Keiko" can be demanding, but students are never placed in a situation where they may feel uncomfortable.
What is a Kendo-ka?
Practitioners of Kendo are called Kendo-ka, meaning "One Who Practices Kendo". Most Kendo-ka would follow the concept of Kendo as defined by the International Kendo Federation (of which Dublin Kendo Kobukai is a member).
How Did Kendo Start?
For the Japanese Samurai Swordsmanship was a way of life. During the 14th Century, many different schools of teaching formed around Japan, each school being different. Teachings were based on practical experience from the battlefield and practice moved from using real swords to using wooden swords, known as Bokken.
The introduction of the bamboo sword, Shinai, around 1711- 1715 was a major breakthrough in the development of Kendo. Shortly after this the Kote (gauntlets), Do (breast plate), Tare (hip/groin protector), and Men (head protector) were invented and gained popular usage in the Dojo (fencing hall). With the advent of the new equipment, the swordsman was no longer hindered by the risk of injury during practice and could concentrate totally on his technique.
How Can I start Training in Kendo?
Our Kendo Beginners Course is intended for practitioners with no prior experience in kendo aged 16 and above (participants under 18 years of age require authorisation from a parent or guardian to enroll).
All of the instructors in our Beginners Course have achieved at least the ranking of 5th Dan in kendo, have multiple years of kendo coaching experience, and have represented Ireland in multiple international competitions abroad.
At the end of our 10-week Kendo Beginners Course, you will be expected to:
- Understand and demonstrate fundamental aspects of reiho (etiquette)
- Have learned basic kendo terminology
- Show good posture and proper kendo footwork
- Execute some of the most essential attacking techniques (waza) in kendo
- Be able to complete key kendo training exercises (e.g. kirikaeshi)
- Be ready to take your first kendo grading examination…
- And to progress to our regular kendo classes!
Registration
Our Current Beginners Course is FULLY BOOKED.
You can contact us - here - to get on the early notification list for our next course. Courses sell out fast - and the early notifcation list gives you 24 hrs notice before places are offered to the general public.
I Already Train in Kendo, Can I Train with You?
Yes, of course! We'd love to have you come train with us. Please contact us here to make arrangements. 🙂
Training Times and Locations
KENDO - The Way of the Sword
Monday
Intermediate
20:35 - 22:00 **
St. John Bosco Youth Centre,
Davitt Road,
Drimnagh,
Dublin 12
Wednesday
Beginners Course
20:15 - 21:45
Nagle Hall,
Marino Institute of Education,
Griffith Avenue,
Marino,
Dublin 9
Friday
Advanced/Bogu
20:00 - 21:45
St. Joseph's C.B.S. Secondary School,
Fairview,
Dublin 3
Saturday
Adults
13:30 - 15:30 **
The Ballybough Community
Youth & Sports Centre,
49 Ballybough Road,
Ballybough,
Dublin 3
** Due to building restrictions, Saturday and Monday classes are unfortunately cancelled on bank holiday weekends.
Check out some our Dojo Kendo Videos!
The following are some recent clips from our seminars and public demonstrations.
Irish Kendo: 20 Years in the Making
Taking a behind the scenes look at the recent Kendo Seminar, part of the 20 year anniversary celebrations. You'll see some great Kendo, great instruction, and even greater friendships.
A Journey in Irish Women's Kendo. (IMAC documentary)
An inspirational mini-documentary from the Irish Martial Arts Commission on Dublin Kendo Kobukai member Sophie on her journey from beginner to International Team Captain.
Check Our Media Section for Articles & Videos
Which group of warriors will display the can-do (or should that be Kendo?) attitude needed to triumph in the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday morning? With thanks to @dublinKendo and @kendoeireann. #RWC2019 #ENGvRSA pic.twitter.com/ONGW2wvzmn
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) November 1, 2019
Like Us on Facebook to Stay Up To Date!
Check Out How You Can Start Training in Our Other Arts!
Copyright © 2020 All Material on this website is copyright Dublin Kendo Kobukai, and licenced under the CC-BY Licence.