Hokkyokusei Kendo Kai
You must understand spirit and timing. Handle the sword naturally, and move your limbs in accord with your spirit. - Miyamoto Musashi, of Niten Ichi-ryu
Friday, August 27, 2004
Kitamoto Kendo Camp Summary
Japan had a record hot spell during the time of the foreign kendo teacher’s summer camp. This did not stop Inoue Shigeaki Sensei (Hanshi 8th Dan) from giving us vigorous practice. The little store next to the dojo made a killing on water and Pocari Sweat. Sensei stressed the theme of Ki Ken Tai in the teahcing of the camp through the practice of coaching, fundamentals, kata, shimpan, and keiko. He was assisted by four Kyoshi 8th Dan senseis: Ishida Sensei - kata, Suganami Sensei - Shimpan, Furihara Sensei, and Koyama Sensei. There were many other senseis that dropped in to practice with us and help us utilize the teaching we were getting at this fantastic camp. The teachings were translated to us by Kumoto Sensei and Bennett Sensei, who worked endlessly to give us accurate and understandable translations. This was the best experience I have had in my kendo training and would highly recommend it to any who could attend.