Dojo & Training

In its most basic and functional definition, a Dojo is a training hall and gathering place for students that practise any of the Japanese Do arts. Dojo is a Japanese term which literally means place of the Tao, as the Dojo was adjunct to temples. So when you enter, the Dojo should be acknowledged as your personal sacred place in which you have received the right to train. To create a positive atmosphere in the Dojo strict attention to the Dojo Reigi (etiquette) must be adhered to. 

If you plan learn the art of Kendo you can choose the closest Dojo as there are subtle differences in how the clubs approach Kendo. The commercial and competitive motives that have split several other martial art federations are non-existent.

Beginners are training mostly twice a week. Outside Japan and Korea, men and women train in the same groups. First time you enter a Dojo you can find Kendo quite noisy and that the training really hurts. But you can stay calm; Kendo has a very low injury rate.

To express the techniques and ideas of Kendo Japanese terms are used in any Dojo globally. This means also that you can enter a Dojo in Japan as well as in any other part of the world and understand the commands.

Many Dojos also teach Iaido, which is the art of drawing and cutting using a “real” sword.