※This article was published at November 2014.※
Are you familiar with kendo, which has been practiced since long ago in Japan?
It is a combat sport in which you use a shinai (bamboo sword) to hit your opponent in specified target areas.
While it used to be a form of sword practice for samurai, it is now mostly practiced as a sport, with tournaments being held throughout Japan.
Note that kendo is a martial art, so it is not just about winning or losing.
It also serves an important role in building character.
One of the most important aspects of character building is the kendo tradition of beginning and ending with a bow.
People always bow before and after practice and competition, and it is necessary to constantly maintain a spirit of thankfulness towards your opponent. Kendo means “way of the sword,” and this “way” also includes the “way of building character.”
Even though you do wear protective armor, it is a bit painful because you are being hit with a bamboo sword.
Why would Japanese people enjoy such a thing?
Based on my sixteen years of experience with kendo, I think one of the most rewarding things about it is being able to interact with various people.
Many people never forget to pay respect to others even after they take off their armor, and I have noticed that I have become friends with men and women both young and old.
While this goes for other sports, it is very fun improving while teaching and being taught.
In addition, it has been really valuable learning the spirit of kendo, and I sometimes feel moved just by watching an intense kendo match. You can also watch videos of matches on the Internet, so I suggest that you do a search and check it out.
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