The Budokan in Kyoto (
map ref) is the oldest extant building built specifically for martial arts training in Japan (or so the sign says).
On the walk down there this morning a load of Jodo (stick fighting) students went past in a very efficient manner. They were having a seminar in the main hall.
 |
| No pointy bits, don't want to learn |
Out the back there is a Kyudo (archery) range. Ewa is still debating whether we take up Kyudo or not. The technique looks useful for Yabusame (horseback archery) but the focus seems to be a lot more on the breathing and bowing than the hitting of the target. This could be a little annoying as we are results driven people most of the time.
 |
| Pointy bits. Probably want to learn |
There is no charge for entry and apparently something is happening almost every day so if you are interested in seeing some pretty good skills being displayed in some pretty environments it is well worth a visit. There is a shrine across the road if that is your thing too.
 |
| 3 foreigners, 3 men, 40 ladies over 65 out of 100 participants. Odds are skewed in the old ladies favour so we did as they requested. |
 |
| Dynamic footwork with pointy and slicey bits |
 |
| The sweatiest one is training the hardest. |
Just down the road is Tozandos. A shop that sells martial arts equipment. They have replica armour. I want some of this. I know some guys that do the re-enactment battles. I shall have to try and wangle a way into their good graces.
 |
| Might get a cheaper one if I am going to play in the dirt though. |
No comments:
Post a Comment