🥋 Japan Day 9: Kendo

📍 Place: Kyoto

Today was a bit special. Because my asthma made me feel so bad, I had to take a break and skip today's temples. I'd been so excited for the Kendo class, so I chose to rest until it started. When the group returned from the temples and got ready to leave again, I joined them. We walked a short distance before arriving.
Tip: If you have health challenges, plan your energy for the activities you care about most, it's totally okay to skip something to save your strength.

The Kendo class was held in the dojo where it all began. We were taught by a bushido instructor, a descendant of a Japanese samurai.

🗡 What is Kendo?

Kendo is a Japanese martial art where two people using bamboo swords (shinai) try to score points by striking the head, torso, wrists, or thrusting at the throat. You're also allowed to bump your opponent to throw them off balance, but punches and kicks aren't allowed.

Kendo differs from Western fencing in that practitioners cut more than thrust and move with big steps. Before attacking and when landing a hit, you shout (kiai), this helps focus, breathing, and energy. Like other budo arts, Kendo isn't just about physical training but also personal growth and values like courtesy, respect, and honesty. 

🥋 The Dojo Experience

We started by being given gear: uniforms, chest, back, and groin protectors, bamboo swords, gloves, and masks.
Tip: The uniforms can feel heavy and hot, wear light clothes underneath and bring a water bottle.

The instructor shared fascinating stories about the samurai and bushido culture before we began training. Because I'm short, I stepped on my pants and had to get help adjusting the outfit.
Tip: If you're shorter or smaller, ask for help with tying the uniform, it makes things much easier.

We learned the basics: footwork and three different attack techniques. Before attacking, we had to shout loudly, it was super awkward practicing in pairs, but also kind of funny.
Tip: Don't worry about looking silly, everyone yells and looks awkward the first time, and that's part of the experience.

Finally, we put on the helmets. The apron on top kept sliding down, and I couldn't see a thing. Thankfully, someone helped me fix it. Then it was duel time: the goal was to hit your opponent while shouting one of the Japanese words we'd learned earlier (which I've unfortunately forgotten). We dueled, and I won! It was so much fun but way too short. We only had time for one duel. I wish we'd had more time to fight and learn more techniques.

Tip:

• Be prepared that most of the session might go toward putting on gear, that's normal and keeps you safe.

• Respect dojo etiquette: bow, listen carefully, and show respect to the instructor and classmates.

• If you wear glasses, consider contacts for the day, the helmet can be tight.

All in all, it was a calm and educational day. I was a bit disappointed that my body didn't cooperate and I missed the temples I was excited about, but I loved the Kendo class. It was worth saving my energy, so fun to try something new, use bamboo swords, and get a taste of Japanese culture and history.