Kyudo (Archery)

A Japanese martial art that trains the complete sequence of drawing the sword from its scabbard, cutting, and resheathing. Evolved from practical swordsmanship, it emphasizes the unity of mind and body and spiritual cultivation. The act of drawing the sword in an instant from stillness embodies 'stillness within motion, motion within stillness,' pursuing the essence of martial arts.

Traditional Japanese archery using the wabumi bow. Using the world's longest bow (approximately 2.2 meters), movements following the 'eight stages of shooting' constitute a spiritual discipline akin to Zen. The goal is not merely hitting the target—the philosophy of 'seisha hicchu' (correct shooting always hits) encapsulates Japanese martial arts philosophy.

A martial art based on traditional Japanese archery. Using Japanese bows to shoot arrows at targets, it emphasizes etiquette and spiritual cultivation. Evolved from martial practice in the Edo period, it is now practiced as both martial art and sport. Approximately 2 million people worldwide practice it. Characterized by the grace of drawing motion and development of concentration, it is highly valued as a martial art embodying Japanese aesthetic sensibility.

A martial art rooted in Japanese swordsmanship, practiced with bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bogu). Its philosophy centers on character development through the disciplined study of the sword, emphasizing etiquette and mental cultivation alongside technique. Led by the All Japan Kendo Federation, it is practiced in over 60 countries.

A Japanese martial art using the naginata, a polearm with a curved blade. Used as a warrior's weapon since the Heian period, it developed as a women's martial art from the Edo period onward. While practiced by all genders today, it is notable for its many female practitioners and is valued as a martial art that emphasizes etiquette and grace.

A martial art originating from traditional Japanese archery. Using the approximately 2-meter-long Japanese bow, kyudo emphasizes the beauty and spirituality of the eight stages of shooting over mere accuracy. Its core teaching is 'correct shooting naturally hits the target.' Often described as 'moving Zen,' the dignified movements in the silence of the shooting hall symbolize Japanese spiritual culture.