Come and TRY a free kendo session !
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, try a free session today, or continue to read more!
Irish National Kendo Squad members demonstrating Kendo on Saturday AM on TV3 ahead of a demo at the holiday world show at the request of the Japanese Embassy. It was a little last minute, but we think they did great. 😉
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?
It's really easy. Just come along to one of our training sessions. Your first session is free so you can get a feel for what we do and if our dojo would be a good fit for you. Don't worry about equipment, you just need comfortable workout clothes, like a tracksuit or martial arts uniform and we will provide the rest.
You can see our training times and locations below to find out when and where would suit you. And if you want to talk to one of our instructors just click here to send us an email.
You can sign up for a free beginners session here!
Membership
If you like it (and we think you will), you can join the club as a full member.
- Regular Membership: €50 per month
- Concessionary Membership (students or unwaged): €25 per month
- Children (6 to 16-years old): €20 per month
This covers your classes fees for as many classes per week as you wish to attend for the month. That means if you take just 1 class a week, it's only €12.50 a session. If you take 4 classes a week it works out at just €3.12 a session!
Both the club and federation are non-profit organizations and all fees go towards hall rental and other expenses related to running the club, such as insurance, governing body fees, and events. Of course, please let us know confidentially if you have any problems, we want you to train and this is more important than money.
Training Times and Locations
KENDO - The Way of the Sword
Monday
All Levels
20:35 - 22:00 **
St. John Bosco Youth Centre,
Davitt Road,
Drimnagh,
Dublin 12
Wednesday
Intermediate +
20:15 - 22:15
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
All Levels
13:30 - 15:00 **
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.
Polish Team Visit and International Women's Day
Dublin Kendo were delighted to welcome old friends and new with a visit from the National Polish Kendo Team! The joined us for a wonderful training session celebrating International Women's Day!
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
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Check Out How You Can Start Training in Our Other Arts!
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