Ken-Jutsu

Kenjutsu originated from the samurai class of Japan, it is the broad term used to describe the many forms of swordsmanship. Japan has a long history with the sword, it being one of the insignias of Japan. The sword is an intricate part of Japanese culture. The samurai warriors trained for many years to master the skills of the sword. 

There are many styles of ken-jutsu including Iaido (the art of fast drawing the sword) and Kendo (the art of the sword). The style studied at the Dragons Lair comes from the Yamabushi Ryu school, translated it means the school of the mountain warrior. The Dragons Lair Kenjutsu students get direct training from the Bushikan dojo in Herne, Germany. 

As many people may know the most famous sword master was Miyamoto Musashi. He had over 60 bouts in his lifetime winning all of them. He defeated many of his opponents through superior skill and his observation of their movements. Often using the attacking opponents momentum to gain the victory. He was known to use the style of Niten-ichi-ryu, which when translated means two sword style. He would carry a katana and a wakizahsi (short sword). Musashi wrote the book of five rings, it explains his philosophies on warrior strategies.

As part of our ken-jutsu journey we learn a number of katas that contain many techniques. Many of which include cutting, thrusting, stabbing, counter attacks, parrying, and blocking. The samurai warriors spent many years learning their sword skills and techniques, gaining practical knowledge as they fought in battles and bouts. As one progresses through the katas a sense of understanding develops as to the techniques and the use of them. This is built on through regular training and seminars, with gradings commencing throughout the students training.

As ken-jutsu is a Japanese martial art it is taught using the Japanese language, students who train continuously will learn the terminology as the instructor gives the students a technique to practice. This gives the class a traditional element allowing the student to fully understand the concept of the sword as it was taught back in the 16th century and onwards.

Class timetable

See the timetable page for detiails of our classes.

Parts of the Sword

Japanese                                  English                                                                                                           

  1. Kashira                                                  Butt cap
  2. Tsukaito                                                 Handle wrap
  3. Same                                                      Ray fish skin 
  4. Menuki                                                    Palm ornaments
  5. Mekugi                                                    Bamboo pin
  6. Nakago                                                   Tang
  7. Fuchi                                                       Metal sleeve
  8. Seppa                                                      Metal spacer
  9. Tsuba                                                       Hand guard
  10. Habaki                                                      Scabbard sleeve
  11. Tsuka                                                        Handle
  12. Mune                                                         Blade back
  13. Yakuba                                                      Tempered line
  14. Hi                                                               Groove
  15. Shinogi                                                      Blade ridge
  16. Kissacki                                                     Blade Point
  17. Ha                                                              Blade edge
  18. Koiguchi                                                    Scabbard mouth
  19. Kurigata                                                     Loop for cord
  20. Saya                                                           Scabbard