Classes at the Capital Area Budokai

Batto, like iai, is a 'drawing sword' art that begins and ends with the sword in the saya. Nakamura Ryu grew from basic swordsmanship for military officers taught at the Toyama Military Academy in the late 1920's, although it has deep roots in several koryu, or older styles.

Kendo is the Japanese form of fencing. It arises from the sword arts of ancient Japan, and is the modern incarnation of a centuries-long evolution. Kendo is more than just learning to fence with a sword. It is also about discipline and honing a right spirit.

Kyudo is an elegant, ceremonial, non-combative method of shooting the traditional Japanese bow (yumi) and arrow (ya).  It requires, and therefore develops, a balanced body that works in concert with a peaceful mind.  Often refers to as “The Way of the Bow (or Path),” it takes a lifetime to travel. 

The naginata is perhaps the most famous polearm of Japan. We teach traditional naginata through Tendo Ryu Naginatajutsu alongside Atarashii Naginata, as a member of the International Naginata Federation.

Shindo Muso Ryu is a 400+ year old art and primarily teaches the use of a short staff, or walking stick, to defeat a sword. The art also includes training on the jutte and iron fan, the sickle and chain, and others.

Mugai Ryu is a koryu, or classical art, founded in 1693 by Tsuji Gettan Tsukemochi, and is based on older styles from the Sengoku period and a strong foundation of Zen. Emphasis is on Katsujinken. Training includes iaido (individual and two person forms, kneeling and standing), kenjutsu, and shizan (cutting).