Kendo

The forging technique for Japanese swords using tamahagane steel through a unique folding and hammering process. The beauty of the hamon temper line and jihada grain patterns is acclaimed worldwide as fine art. Five traditional schools known as Gokaden continue their lineage, with new swords still being crafted by master swordsmiths designated as Important Intangible Cultural Property holders.

The comprehensive culture surrounding Japan's warrior class, the samurai. Encompasses bushido, swordsmanship, armor, castle architecture, and more. Reached maturity during the Edo period and remains internationally recognized as representative of Japanese culture. Forms the foundation of modern martial arts traditions.

The code of conduct maintained by Japan's warrior class. Emphasizing honor, loyalty, and propriety, it represents the spirit of practicing moral principles even at the cost of life. Established through the Edo period, it influenced the spiritual foundation of modern Japanese society. An essential value representing Japanese culture.

Spiritual foundation common to Japanese martial arts. Through spiritual cultivation and physical training, it aims at character development. Expressed through the concept of 'do,' it pursues unity and harmony of mind-body beyond mere technical acquisition. Evolved from bushido through modern martial arts, it functions as Japan's unique educational system emphasizing etiquette and responsibility.

A martial art practicing a continuous sequence of drawing a sword from its scabbard to defeat an opponent. It originates from Edo-period iaijutsu styles. Today it is formalized as a sport emphasizing the precision of kata and spiritual development. Practiced globally with international competitions held regularly.

Japanese sword combat art systematized during the Edo period. Numerous schools developed unique philosophical systems and techniques. Direct predecessor of modern kendo. A comprehensive martial art emphasizing not only sword technique but also tactics and philosophy. Traditional dojos preserving classical lineages continue throughout Japan.

A martial art evolved from Japan's traditional sword techniques, practiced one-on-one using bamboo swords and protective gear. Developing from Edo period sword schools to the present, it is now practiced worldwide. Alongside judo and wrestling, it was adopted as an international competition sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

A traditional Japanese martial art using bamboo swords. Developed from Edo-period sword techniques and modernized during the Meiji era. Emphasizing proper etiquette and spiritual development, it practices striking techniques with bamboo swords. Practitioners worldwide, with international competitions, embodying Japanese spiritual culture.

A martial art based on Japanese sword techniques using a bamboo sword and protective armor. Practitioners strike designated target areas on opponents. Emphasizing 'mind-body oneness' and etiquette with deep respect for opponents, it evolved from Edo-period sword schools. Today practiced globally as a path of martial discipline and personal development.

Modern martial art based on Japanese sword combat. A sport using bamboo swords to strike opponent's head, torso, arms, and legs. Inheriting the spirit of Bushido, it emphasizes courtesy and cultivation of mind and body. Overseen by the All Japan Kendo Federation and incorporated into school education. Its training system aiming for unity of spirit, technique, and body represents Japan's traditional martial philosophy.

An ancient Japanese martial art originating from battlefield grappling. It encompasses a comprehensive system of practical techniques including throws, joint locks, chokes, and strikes. As the source of both judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, it has been globally reappraised as 'jujitsu' amid the rise of MMA (mixed martial arts).

A Japanese martial art evolved from jujutsu, founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882, utilizing throws, grappling, and choking techniques. Based on the principle that 'gentleness overcomes strength,' using opponent's force efficiently. Now an established Olympic sport practiced worldwide as a competitive sport.