USMAF KENDO
(From Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kendo)
Kendo (剣道, Kendō, lit. 'sword way', 'sword path' or 'way of the sword')[1] is a modern Japanese martial art, descended from kenjutsu (one of the old Japanese martial arts, swordsmanship), that uses bamboo swords (shinai) as well as protective armor (bōgu).[2] Today, it is widely practiced within Japan and has spread to many other nations across the world.
HistoryKendo in the early Meiji period (1873)
Takasugi Shinsaku, late Edo period kendo practitionerSwordsmen in Japan established schools of kenjutsu[3] (the ancestor of kendo). These continued for centuries and form the basis of kendo practice today.[4] Formal kendo exercises known as kata were developed several centuries ago as kenjutsu practice for warriors. They are still studied today, in a modified form.[5]
The introduction of bamboo practice swords and armor to sword training is attributed to Naganuma Shirōzaemon Kunisato (長沼 四郎左衛門 国郷, 1688–1767) during the Shotoku Era (1711–1715). Naganuma developed the use of this armor and established a training method using bamboo swords.[6]
Yamada Heizaemon Mitsunori (Ippūsai) (山田平左衛門光徳(一風斎), 1638–1718), third son of Naganuma and the 8th headmaster of the Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryū Kenjutsu, is credited with improving the art with Japanese wooden and bamboo swords, according to his gravestone's inscription. He is also credited with refining the armor by adding a metal grille to the headpiece (面; men) and thick cotton protective coverings to the gauntlets (小手; kote).[7] Naganuma Sirozaemon Kunisato (長沼四郎左衛門国郷, 1688-1767) inherited the tradition from his father Heizaemon in 1708, and the two of them collaborated to improve what would become modern kendo training armor.[6][7]
Shūsaku Narimasa Chiba (千葉 周作 成政, 1792-1855), founder of the Hokushin Ittō-ryū Hyōhō (北辰一刀流兵法), introduced gekiken (撃剣) (full contact duels with bamboo swords and training armor) to the curriculum of tradition arts in the 1820s. Due to the large number of students of the Hokushin Ittō-ryū Hyōhō at the end of the Edo period, the use of bamboo swords and armor as a form of practice became popular. Modern kendo techniques, such as Suriage-Men and Oikomi-Men, were originally Hokushin Ittō-ryū techniques, were named by Chiba Shūsaku.[6][8][9][10] After the Meiji Restoration in the late 1800s, Sakakibara Kenkichi popularized public gekiken for commercial gain, resulting in increased interest in kendo and kenjutsu.[11][12]
In 1876, five years after a voluntary surrender of swords, the government banned the use of swords by the surviving samurai and initiated sword hunts.[13] Meanwhile, in an attempt to standardize the sword styles (kenjutsu) used by policemen, Kawaji Toshiyoshi recruited swordsmen from various schools to come up with a unified swordsmanship style.[14] This led to the rise of the Battotai (抜刀隊, lit. Drawn Sword Corps), consisting mainly of sword-wielding policemen. However, it proved difficult to integrate all sword arts, leading to a compromise of ten practice moves (kata) for police training. This integration effort led to the development of modern kendo.[14] In 1878, Kawaji wrote a book on swordsmanship, Gekiken Saikō-ron (Revitalizing Swordsmanship), stressing sword styles should not disappear with modernization, but should be integrated as necessary skills for the police. He draws a particular example from his experience with the Satsuma Rebellion. The Junsa Kyōshūjo (Patrolman's Training Institute), founded in 1879, provided a curriculum that allowed policemen to study gekiken during their off-hours. In the same year, Kawaji wrote another book on swordsmanship, Kendo Saikō-ron (Revitalizing Kendo), defending the significance of such sword art training for the police.[15] While Junsa Kyōshūjo remained active only until 1881, the police continued to support such practice.
Kendo at an agricultural school in Japan around 1920
Lee Teng-hui, later President of Republic of China (Taiwan), wearing kendo protector as a junior high school student in Japanese TaiwanThe Dai Nippon Butoku Kai (DNBK) was established in 1895 to promote martial arts in Japan. It changed the name of the sporting form of swordsmanship, gekiken, (Kyūjitai: 擊劍 and Shinjitai: 撃剣, "hitting sword") to kendō in 1920.[4][16]
Kendo (along with other martial arts) was banned in Japan in 1946 by the occupying powers. This was part of "the removal and exclusion from public life of militaristic and ultra-nationalistic persons" in response to the wartime militarization of martial arts instruction in Japan. The DNBK was also disbanded. Kendo was allowed to return to the curriculum in 1950, first as "shinai competition" (竹刀競技, shinai kyōgi) and then as kendo in 1952.[17][18]
The All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF or ZNKR) was founded in 1952, immediately after Japan's independence was restored and the ban on martial arts in Japan was lifted.[19] It was formed on the principle of kendo not as a martial art, but as educational sport and it has continued to be practiced as such to this day.[20]
The International Kendo Federation (FIK) was founded in April 1970. It is an international federation of national and regional kendo federations, and the world governing body for kendo. The FIK is a non-governmental organization, and it aims to promote and popularize kendo, iaido and jodo.[21]
The International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF), established in Kyoto 1952, was the first international organization founded since WWII to promote the development of martial arts worldwide. Today, IMAF includes kendo as one of the Japanese disciplines.[22]
Practitioners[edit]Practitioners of kendo are called kendōka (剣道家), meaning "someone who practices kendo",[23] or occasionally kenshi (剣士), meaning "swordsman".[24] Additionally, the old term of kendoists is sometimes used.[25]
The Kodansha Meibo, a register of dan graded members of the AJKF, lists (as of September 2007) 1.48 million registered dan graded kendōka in Japan. According to a survey conducted by AJKF, the number of active kendo practitioners in Japan is 477,000, including 290,000 dan holders. From these figures, AJKF estimates that the number of kendōka in Japan is 1.66 million, with over 6 million practitioners worldwide, with registered dan holders and active kendo practitioners without dan grade.[26]
Concept and purpose[edit]In 1975, the All Japan Kendo Federation developed and published "The Concept and Purpose of Kendo" (reproduced below).[27][28]
Concept[edit]Kendo is a way to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana.
Purpose[edit]To mold the mind and body.
To cultivate a vigorous spirit
And through correct and structured training,
To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo.
To hold in esteem courtesy and honor.
To associate with others with sincerity.
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
Thus will one be able:
To love one's country and society;
To contribute to the development of culture;
And to promote peace and prosperity among all people.Equipment and clothing[edit]Kendo is practiced wearing a traditional Japanese style of clothing, protective armor (防具, bōgu) and using one or, less commonly two, shinai (竹刀, shinai).[29]
Concept and Purpose of Kendo -
Kendo is a way to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the Katana.
Purpose of Kendo
To mould the mind and body.
To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
And through correct and rigid training,
To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo.
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor.
To associate with others with sincerity.
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
Thus will one be able:
To love ones country and society.
To contribute to the development of culture
And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.
A Short History of Kendo
The history of Kendo, although is not called in the beginning that is developed out of Japan long historical past and is entirely an original martial art of Japan. It originated from the ancient Kenjutsu (method of the Sword) approximately in eight century. Not until fourteen century, the first dojo was established to train young BUSHI (warrior) in Kenjutsu. During this period, the BUSHIDO (the way of the warrior) philosophy was gradually developed and become very important part of ancient Japanese life. The warrior was required to continue a course of daily training throughout his life to reach the goal of perfection. BUSHIDO was recognized as the soul of ancient Japan. Later the SAMURAI or Japanese knights came to play an increasingly important part in political, social, and economic affairs of Japan. SAMURAI was trained to serve people or Emperor and was highly respected in the society. They are trained to be loyal, integrity, passion, highly discipline and follow the solemn code of conduct made by the Emperor government.
In the late of nineteen century, due to SAMURAI uprisings, Kenjutsu was banned by Emperor MEIJI. Until 1873 MEIJI government grant famous SAMURAI called Kenkichi Sakakibara permission to open first fencing exhibition in Tokyo. In November, 1909, at Tokyo University, the first college Kendo federation was created.
In 1928, All Japan Kendo Federation was officially organized in Tokyo. This national federation gave membership to all professional and amateur kendo dojo and to any individual kendoka who passed a set of examinations at a dojo. Upon recommendation of his teachers, the federation would grant the individual kendoka a rank. The purpose of organization is to hold annual examination to grant kendoka rank, as well as to inspect the quality of teaching and practicing in Japan.
The end of World War II In 1945 made Japan total surrender to Allies. Kendo association with militaristic aggression, with all its demolishing consequences, led to a ban being imposed by the American Occupation Authorities on its practice, a ban which remained in force throughout the occupation years. However, in October 1952, All Japan Kendo Federation modified on the principle of Kendo not as a martial art but as an educational sport and later unified the All Japan Kendo Kata, and since then continued to practice as modern Kendo to present.
Shiro Kinmoku, Kendo - Rokudan, USMAF National Director
USMAF Kendo Program Promotion Requirements -
Rank to be examined
Eligibility for examination
Examiners
Criteria
Basic Demonstration
6-Rokkyu
Determined by local organization, need at least 6 month from start practice
Dojo Sensei
Follow the dojo rules and respect to sensei and all kendoka. How to dress kendogi and hakama well. Finish the Ippon Waza (Ippon Uchi Men,Ippon Uchi Kote, Ippon Uchi Do, Hikibana Kote, Katsugi Kote, Katsugi Men)
5-Gokyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 6-Rokkyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Nidan Waza (Kote-Men, Kote-Do, Men-Do, Tsuki-Men)
4-Yonkyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 5-Gokyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Sandan Waza (Kote-Men-Do, Kote-Men-Kote, Tsuki-Kote-Men)
3-Sankyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 4-Yonkyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Harai Waza (Harai-Age-Men Omote, Harai_Age_Men Ura, Harai-Kote Omote, Harai-Kote Ura, Harai-Tsuki Omote, Harai-Tsuki Ura
2-Nikyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 3-Sankyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Debana Waza (Debana-Men, Debana-Kote)
1-Ikkyo
No time period stipulated,. Matches, kata 1-3 and
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Nuki Waza (Men-Nuki-Men, Men-Nuki-Kote, Men-Nuki-Do, Kote-Nuki-Men, Kote-Nuki-Kote, Kote-Nuki Katate Yoko Men, Tsui-Nuki-Men, Tsui-Nuki-Kote). Also perform matches test,
1-Shodan
4 months or more after receipt of 1-Ikkyo and age 15 or higher. Matches, kata 1-5 and written examination
Five examiners with 4 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 3 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Suriage Waza, Uchitoshi Waza and assist Sensei to instruct junior kendoka.
2-Nidan
1 year or more after receipt of Shodan. Matches, Kata 1-7. Written examination.
Five examiners with 5 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 3 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Kaeshi Waza, Hiki Waza, and Maki Waza. Also know how to fix sinai
3-Sandan
2 years or more after receipt of Nidan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination.
Five examiners with 5 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 3 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to demonstrate instruction to junior kendoka. Be able to demonstrate draw sword and perform basic cutting.
4-Yondan
3 years or more after receipt of Sandan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination.
Seven examiners with 6 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to demonstrate instruction to junior kendoka. Be able to demonstrate draw sword and perform Intermediate cutting.
5-Godan
4 year or more after receipt of Yondan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination.
Seven examiners with 7 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to demonstrate instruction to junior kendoka. Be able to demonstrate draw sword and perform Advance cutting.
6-Rokudan
5 year or more after receipt of Godan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination and referring.
Seven examiners with 7 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to write article or establish a kendo dojo to promote Kendo.
7-Nanadan
6 year or more after receipt of Rokudan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination and referring.
Seven examiners with 7 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to write book or act as a judge in international tournament.
8-Hachidan
10 year or more after receipt of Nanadan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination, referring, and thesis.
10 years in Shichidan
Honorship-continue contribute to Kendo
In addition to prior requirement, examinee needs to participate in national Kendo conference to promote Kendo activity.
6-Rokkyu
5-Gokyu
4-Yonkyu
3-Sankyu
2-Nikyu
1-IkKyu
Kendo (剣道, Kendō, lit. 'sword way', 'sword path' or 'way of the sword')[1] is a modern Japanese martial art, descended from kenjutsu (one of the old Japanese martial arts, swordsmanship), that uses bamboo swords (shinai) as well as protective armor (bōgu).[2] Today, it is widely practiced within Japan and has spread to many other nations across the world.
HistoryKendo in the early Meiji period (1873)
Takasugi Shinsaku, late Edo period kendo practitionerSwordsmen in Japan established schools of kenjutsu[3] (the ancestor of kendo). These continued for centuries and form the basis of kendo practice today.[4] Formal kendo exercises known as kata were developed several centuries ago as kenjutsu practice for warriors. They are still studied today, in a modified form.[5]
The introduction of bamboo practice swords and armor to sword training is attributed to Naganuma Shirōzaemon Kunisato (長沼 四郎左衛門 国郷, 1688–1767) during the Shotoku Era (1711–1715). Naganuma developed the use of this armor and established a training method using bamboo swords.[6]
Yamada Heizaemon Mitsunori (Ippūsai) (山田平左衛門光徳(一風斎), 1638–1718), third son of Naganuma and the 8th headmaster of the Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryū Kenjutsu, is credited with improving the art with Japanese wooden and bamboo swords, according to his gravestone's inscription. He is also credited with refining the armor by adding a metal grille to the headpiece (面; men) and thick cotton protective coverings to the gauntlets (小手; kote).[7] Naganuma Sirozaemon Kunisato (長沼四郎左衛門国郷, 1688-1767) inherited the tradition from his father Heizaemon in 1708, and the two of them collaborated to improve what would become modern kendo training armor.[6][7]
Shūsaku Narimasa Chiba (千葉 周作 成政, 1792-1855), founder of the Hokushin Ittō-ryū Hyōhō (北辰一刀流兵法), introduced gekiken (撃剣) (full contact duels with bamboo swords and training armor) to the curriculum of tradition arts in the 1820s. Due to the large number of students of the Hokushin Ittō-ryū Hyōhō at the end of the Edo period, the use of bamboo swords and armor as a form of practice became popular. Modern kendo techniques, such as Suriage-Men and Oikomi-Men, were originally Hokushin Ittō-ryū techniques, were named by Chiba Shūsaku.[6][8][9][10] After the Meiji Restoration in the late 1800s, Sakakibara Kenkichi popularized public gekiken for commercial gain, resulting in increased interest in kendo and kenjutsu.[11][12]
In 1876, five years after a voluntary surrender of swords, the government banned the use of swords by the surviving samurai and initiated sword hunts.[13] Meanwhile, in an attempt to standardize the sword styles (kenjutsu) used by policemen, Kawaji Toshiyoshi recruited swordsmen from various schools to come up with a unified swordsmanship style.[14] This led to the rise of the Battotai (抜刀隊, lit. Drawn Sword Corps), consisting mainly of sword-wielding policemen. However, it proved difficult to integrate all sword arts, leading to a compromise of ten practice moves (kata) for police training. This integration effort led to the development of modern kendo.[14] In 1878, Kawaji wrote a book on swordsmanship, Gekiken Saikō-ron (Revitalizing Swordsmanship), stressing sword styles should not disappear with modernization, but should be integrated as necessary skills for the police. He draws a particular example from his experience with the Satsuma Rebellion. The Junsa Kyōshūjo (Patrolman's Training Institute), founded in 1879, provided a curriculum that allowed policemen to study gekiken during their off-hours. In the same year, Kawaji wrote another book on swordsmanship, Kendo Saikō-ron (Revitalizing Kendo), defending the significance of such sword art training for the police.[15] While Junsa Kyōshūjo remained active only until 1881, the police continued to support such practice.
Kendo at an agricultural school in Japan around 1920
Lee Teng-hui, later President of Republic of China (Taiwan), wearing kendo protector as a junior high school student in Japanese TaiwanThe Dai Nippon Butoku Kai (DNBK) was established in 1895 to promote martial arts in Japan. It changed the name of the sporting form of swordsmanship, gekiken, (Kyūjitai: 擊劍 and Shinjitai: 撃剣, "hitting sword") to kendō in 1920.[4][16]
Kendo (along with other martial arts) was banned in Japan in 1946 by the occupying powers. This was part of "the removal and exclusion from public life of militaristic and ultra-nationalistic persons" in response to the wartime militarization of martial arts instruction in Japan. The DNBK was also disbanded. Kendo was allowed to return to the curriculum in 1950, first as "shinai competition" (竹刀競技, shinai kyōgi) and then as kendo in 1952.[17][18]
The All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF or ZNKR) was founded in 1952, immediately after Japan's independence was restored and the ban on martial arts in Japan was lifted.[19] It was formed on the principle of kendo not as a martial art, but as educational sport and it has continued to be practiced as such to this day.[20]
The International Kendo Federation (FIK) was founded in April 1970. It is an international federation of national and regional kendo federations, and the world governing body for kendo. The FIK is a non-governmental organization, and it aims to promote and popularize kendo, iaido and jodo.[21]
The International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF), established in Kyoto 1952, was the first international organization founded since WWII to promote the development of martial arts worldwide. Today, IMAF includes kendo as one of the Japanese disciplines.[22]
Practitioners[edit]Practitioners of kendo are called kendōka (剣道家), meaning "someone who practices kendo",[23] or occasionally kenshi (剣士), meaning "swordsman".[24] Additionally, the old term of kendoists is sometimes used.[25]
The Kodansha Meibo, a register of dan graded members of the AJKF, lists (as of September 2007) 1.48 million registered dan graded kendōka in Japan. According to a survey conducted by AJKF, the number of active kendo practitioners in Japan is 477,000, including 290,000 dan holders. From these figures, AJKF estimates that the number of kendōka in Japan is 1.66 million, with over 6 million practitioners worldwide, with registered dan holders and active kendo practitioners without dan grade.[26]
Concept and purpose[edit]In 1975, the All Japan Kendo Federation developed and published "The Concept and Purpose of Kendo" (reproduced below).[27][28]
Concept[edit]Kendo is a way to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana.
Purpose[edit]To mold the mind and body.
To cultivate a vigorous spirit
And through correct and structured training,
To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo.
To hold in esteem courtesy and honor.
To associate with others with sincerity.
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
Thus will one be able:
To love one's country and society;
To contribute to the development of culture;
And to promote peace and prosperity among all people.Equipment and clothing[edit]Kendo is practiced wearing a traditional Japanese style of clothing, protective armor (防具, bōgu) and using one or, less commonly two, shinai (竹刀, shinai).[29]
Concept and Purpose of Kendo -
Kendo is a way to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the Katana.
Purpose of Kendo
To mould the mind and body.
To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
And through correct and rigid training,
To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo.
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor.
To associate with others with sincerity.
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
Thus will one be able:
To love ones country and society.
To contribute to the development of culture
And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.
A Short History of Kendo
The history of Kendo, although is not called in the beginning that is developed out of Japan long historical past and is entirely an original martial art of Japan. It originated from the ancient Kenjutsu (method of the Sword) approximately in eight century. Not until fourteen century, the first dojo was established to train young BUSHI (warrior) in Kenjutsu. During this period, the BUSHIDO (the way of the warrior) philosophy was gradually developed and become very important part of ancient Japanese life. The warrior was required to continue a course of daily training throughout his life to reach the goal of perfection. BUSHIDO was recognized as the soul of ancient Japan. Later the SAMURAI or Japanese knights came to play an increasingly important part in political, social, and economic affairs of Japan. SAMURAI was trained to serve people or Emperor and was highly respected in the society. They are trained to be loyal, integrity, passion, highly discipline and follow the solemn code of conduct made by the Emperor government.
In the late of nineteen century, due to SAMURAI uprisings, Kenjutsu was banned by Emperor MEIJI. Until 1873 MEIJI government grant famous SAMURAI called Kenkichi Sakakibara permission to open first fencing exhibition in Tokyo. In November, 1909, at Tokyo University, the first college Kendo federation was created.
In 1928, All Japan Kendo Federation was officially organized in Tokyo. This national federation gave membership to all professional and amateur kendo dojo and to any individual kendoka who passed a set of examinations at a dojo. Upon recommendation of his teachers, the federation would grant the individual kendoka a rank. The purpose of organization is to hold annual examination to grant kendoka rank, as well as to inspect the quality of teaching and practicing in Japan.
The end of World War II In 1945 made Japan total surrender to Allies. Kendo association with militaristic aggression, with all its demolishing consequences, led to a ban being imposed by the American Occupation Authorities on its practice, a ban which remained in force throughout the occupation years. However, in October 1952, All Japan Kendo Federation modified on the principle of Kendo not as a martial art but as an educational sport and later unified the All Japan Kendo Kata, and since then continued to practice as modern Kendo to present.
Shiro Kinmoku, Kendo - Rokudan, USMAF National Director
USMAF Kendo Program Promotion Requirements -
Rank to be examined
Eligibility for examination
Examiners
Criteria
Basic Demonstration
6-Rokkyu
Determined by local organization, need at least 6 month from start practice
Dojo Sensei
Follow the dojo rules and respect to sensei and all kendoka. How to dress kendogi and hakama well. Finish the Ippon Waza (Ippon Uchi Men,Ippon Uchi Kote, Ippon Uchi Do, Hikibana Kote, Katsugi Kote, Katsugi Men)
5-Gokyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 6-Rokkyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Nidan Waza (Kote-Men, Kote-Do, Men-Do, Tsuki-Men)
4-Yonkyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 5-Gokyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Sandan Waza (Kote-Men-Do, Kote-Men-Kote, Tsuki-Kote-Men)
3-Sankyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 4-Yonkyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Harai Waza (Harai-Age-Men Omote, Harai_Age_Men Ura, Harai-Kote Omote, Harai-Kote Ura, Harai-Tsuki Omote, Harai-Tsuki Ura
2-Nikyu
Determined by local organization, at least 6 month after 3-Sankyo
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Debana Waza (Debana-Men, Debana-Kote)
1-Ikkyo
No time period stipulated,. Matches, kata 1-3 and
Dojo Sensei
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Nuki Waza (Men-Nuki-Men, Men-Nuki-Kote, Men-Nuki-Do, Kote-Nuki-Men, Kote-Nuki-Kote, Kote-Nuki Katate Yoko Men, Tsui-Nuki-Men, Tsui-Nuki-Kote). Also perform matches test,
1-Shodan
4 months or more after receipt of 1-Ikkyo and age 15 or higher. Matches, kata 1-5 and written examination
Five examiners with 4 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 3 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Suriage Waza, Uchitoshi Waza and assist Sensei to instruct junior kendoka.
2-Nidan
1 year or more after receipt of Shodan. Matches, Kata 1-7. Written examination.
Five examiners with 5 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 3 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to perform correct Kaeshi Waza, Hiki Waza, and Maki Waza. Also know how to fix sinai
3-Sandan
2 years or more after receipt of Nidan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination.
Five examiners with 5 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 3 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to demonstrate instruction to junior kendoka. Be able to demonstrate draw sword and perform basic cutting.
4-Yondan
3 years or more after receipt of Sandan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination.
Seven examiners with 6 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to demonstrate instruction to junior kendoka. Be able to demonstrate draw sword and perform Intermediate cutting.
5-Godan
4 year or more after receipt of Yondan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination.
Seven examiners with 7 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to demonstrate instruction to junior kendoka. Be able to demonstrate draw sword and perform Advance cutting.
6-Rokudan
5 year or more after receipt of Godan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination and referring.
Seven examiners with 7 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to write article or establish a kendo dojo to promote Kendo.
7-Nanadan
6 year or more after receipt of Rokudan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination and referring.
Seven examiners with 7 Dan or over
Consent of min. of 5 Examiners
In addition to prior requirement, examinee need to write book or act as a judge in international tournament.
8-Hachidan
10 year or more after receipt of Nanadan. Matches, Kata 1-7 and Kodachi kata 1-3. Written examination, referring, and thesis.
10 years in Shichidan
Honorship-continue contribute to Kendo
In addition to prior requirement, examinee needs to participate in national Kendo conference to promote Kendo activity.
6-Rokkyu
5-Gokyu
4-Yonkyu
3-Sankyu
2-Nikyu
1-IkKyu
