Welcome to San Jose Kendo Dojo!

San Jose Kendo Dojo has been an influential Kendo school in the United States Kendo community since its founding in 1962. We are an active member of the Northern California Kendo Federation (NCKF) and the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF), with dojo members serving as officers in both organizations.

San Jose Kendo Dojo offers top-level instruction in the martial art of Kendo for men, women, and children of nearly all ages. Our current members range from beginners trying Kendo for the first time to veterans who have competed on Team USA in past World Kendo Championships and are preparing for future National and World Championship competitions.

San Jose Kendo Dojo is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization under Title 26 of the Internal Revenue Code.

We are happy to accept donations to help support our dojo’s mission of teaching Japanese culture through the practice of Kendo. Click the button below to make your donation. Thank you.

Our Mission

San Jose Kendo Dojo’s mission is to provide high-quality Kendo instruction and promote the values of respect, discipline, and perseverance inherent in the martial art. We strive to foster a supportive and inclusive community where individuals can learn and grow through the practice of Kendo. Our dojo motto, as prescribed by our retired head instructor, Tanaka Sensei, is: Tadashiku 正しく(Correctly), Tanoshiku 楽しく (Joyfully), Nakayoku 仲良く (With Friendship).

History

Since its establishment in 1962, San Jose Kendo Dojo has played a pivotal role in the development and propagation of Kendo in the United States. Over the decades, the dojo has produced numerous skilled practitioners who have excelled at various levels of competition, including national and international championships. The dojo’s rich history is marked by a commitment to the traditional teachings of Kendo. Here is a YouTube video of the San Jose Kendo Dojo that aired on local TV stations in 2008.

Instructors

The Dojo Shihan Emeritus or retired chief instructor is Mr. Charlie Tanaka, Hanshi 7 Dan. Tanaka sensei has served two terms as the President of the AUSKF and numerous terms as the president of the NCKF. He was San Jose Kendo’s Chief Instructor for 41 years until his retirement in 2020.

Additionally, the dojo has several other instructors, or sensei, with ranks of 4th Dan and above. Unlike commercial dojos, the instructors donate their time and are not paid to teach. Additionally, unlike commercial dojos, Sho-Dan (1st degree black belt) members do not teach. Ni-Dan (2nd degree) and San-Dan (3rd degree) members are assistant instructors under the direction of sensei. Please see our Instructors page for more information about our instructors.

Classes

We offer a variety of classes tailored to different skill levels and ages, ensuring that everyone from beginners to advanced practitioners can find a suitable program. Our classes focus on fundamental Kendo techniques, kata (forms), and sparring, providing a comprehensive training experience.

Events and Activities

Throughout the year, San Jose Kendo Dojo hosts and participates in numerous events, including local, regional, and national tournaments, seminars, and cultural exchanges. These events provide our members with opportunities to test their skills, learn from experienced practitioners, and connect with the broader Kendo community.

Join Us

If you are interested in exploring the art of Kendo and becoming part of our dojo family, we invite you to observe a class. Our instructors and members are eager to share their passion for Kendo and help you embark on this rewarding journey.

Contact Us

For more information about our classes, events, or how to support San Jose Kendo Dojo, please visit our Contact page. We look forward to welcoming you to our community.