 Kyudo
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| Kyudo is not simply shooting arrows at a target but an art of
combining the bow, the body and the spirit in harmony. The Kyudo-ka or
practitioner of Kyudo, develops technique, mental focus and character
together. Virtues and weaknesses both physical and spiritual become apparent
during the process of shooting the arrow.
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| Learning Kyudo involves the demanding and challenging process of balancing the
body and spirit in harmony. Kyudo follows the method of traditional Japanese
arts and disciplines in promoting self-cultivation through the rigor of a
prescribed process and may not be suitable for those unwilling to follow such
an approach.
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The origins of Kyudo begins with the introduction of archery from
China into Japan over a thousand years ago. Over the last few hundred years it
evolved in its own way.
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During this latter period, Japanese archery became associated with ceremonial
functions at temples, distinct from the practical use of the bow for war and
hunting.
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The current practise of Kyudo has come forth from a blend of the
influences from the temple and martial styles of Japanese archery and in the
process has lost any of its application on the battlefield or the hunting
ground.
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Today Kyudo is practised as an activity to develop one's self.
It can help cultivate focus and inner calm in todays hectic world. In Japan, Kyudo
is practised by as many men and women. It's emphasis on mental focus rather
than physical strength has made it accessible to both young and old.
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| Web Links |
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Seishinkan Kyudo
- Our parent dojo is located in California and has lots of interesting
information on the web site.
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| American Kyudo Renmei -
Governing body for kyudo operating in the U.S. under the All Nippon Kyudo
Federation. There's also a directory of kyudo clubs in the United States. |
| Kyudo Flash Animation -
a cute animation of kyudo practise. |
| Japanese Archery
(Kyudo) - web-japan.org |
| A Kyudo Dictionary of terms. |
| Martial arts in
Japan - see the Kyudo section. At high school level, Kyudo may be
offered to girls as an alternative to the other martial arts. |
| Zenko - another Kyudo
organization. |
| Books |
Kyudo The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery, by Hideharu Onuma with Dan
and Jackie DeProspero
ISBN: 4-7700-1734-0
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