Terminology

As Kendo has its roots in the Japanese language and culture, most of the terminology is in Japanese though the instruction in each country is in the mother tongue. The instruction in a Dojo (training place) can for a beginner seem confusing but after a few weeks he finds it a natural part of the training process.  

Another advantage is that when all Dojos are using Japanese terms, a Kendoka, while visiting a foreign country, can be able to participate and understand all the Japanese terms and words used in Kendo. 

GlobalKendo.com explains some of the Kendo terminology, presented in four categories: 

GENERAL TERMS
COUNTING
COURTESIES & COMMANDS
MOTTOS

 

GlobalKendo.com presents “Terminology” in cooperation with Halifax Kendo Club

New films


See the movie
The legendary samurai
Musashi won over 60 duels - often by using his two swords, and a peculiar strategy of arriving late to the scene. Read more
World Championships
Results of the kendo competitions held every third year since 1970. Read more
Created by: Scandnet