SPORT

For the first time in 34 years, Grand Sumo returns to the United Kingdom. The referee’s call echoes through the Royal Albert Hall, the salt of purification scatters across the ring, and young wrestlers move with passion and pride. Japan’s culture and dignity once again capture the world’s attention.

Kendo is practiced in over 60 countries worldwide and is popular among foreigners as a way to experience Japanese culture. With protective gear, beginners can practice safely and continue training without difficulty, making it an accessible lifelong sport.

In Kendo, the way you hold your shinai determines not just how you attack, but also how you control the rhythm of the match. The five traditional stances provide a clear framework: Chūdan for balance, Jōdan for power, Gedan for strategy, Hassō for variation, and Waki for surprise. Mastering them allows you to experience the true depth of this martial art.

When moving abroad, many Kendo practitioners ask: “Will my Dan rank still be valid?” The good news is that Kendo Dan certifications are internationally recognized, allowing practitioners to join dojos in different countries with full acknowledgment of their achievements. This system supports not only fair evaluation but also cross-cultural exchange through Kendo.

Kendo teaches much more than how to handle a sword. The “Dō” in Kendo represents a spiritual path where discipline, respect, and perseverance shape one’s character. For many foreigners, learning this philosophy reveals that Kendo is a way to train the heart as well as the body.

The story of Kendo begins with the samurai warriors of medieval Japan. What started as a deadly skill on the battlefield evolved into a way of personal growth and cultural expression. Today, Kendo is practiced around the world, admired for its unique blend of tradition, discipline, and physical training.

Unlike traditional martial arts that emphasize competition, Taido focuses on personal growth and harmony of body and spirit. It integrates circular and spiral movements that make techniques not only effective but also visually captivating. Whether you are a beginner or someone interested in Japanese culture, learning Taido provides an opportunity to experience both physical training and cultural enrichment.

Karate, originating in Okinawa, combines powerful techniques with deep respect for etiquette. Unlike sports that focus only on physical performance, karate teaches students to balance body, mind, and spirit. This introduction explains its unique value and why it appeals to practitioners around the world.

At Koshien Stadium, losing teams do not just leave in disappointment. Instead, they carry home the infield soil, a practice that has become one of Japan’s most touching traditions. This soil, carefully managed by Hanshin Landscaping, is a blend of Kagoshima’s fertile black earth and Kyoto’s hill sand, embodying both the physical strength of the ground and the emotional strength of its players.

American football is often viewed as a sport of brute force, but its true essence lies in strategy, teamwork, and precision. In Japan, the sport is carving out a new identity, led by the rise of flag football in schools and community centers. With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, this is a pivotal moment for the sport’s future in the country.