Jukendo GB

An Introduction

Jukendo

Jukendo's origins trace back to European bayonet techniques introduced to Japan during the late 19th century, when Western military tactics began influencing Japanese training. The art was further refined by blending these European methods with traditional Japanese spear (yari) combat principles, creating a unique martial discipline that honours both Western and Eastern influences. Practised with a wooden rifle and rubber-tipped bayonet, Jukendo focuses on targeting vital points and mastering evasive manoeuvres, all while instilling the values of discipline, precision, and warrior spirit. It serves as a bridge between Japan's martial heritage and modern combative arts, offering a distinctive way to explore history and technique.

An Introduction

Tankendo

Tankendo is a Japanese martial art that focuses on close-quarters combat with the short sword/bayonet or tanken. It developed as an offshoot of jukendo, incorporating techniques from both traditional Japanese swordsmanship and modern bayonet fighting, influenced by European military training methods. Practitioners engage with wooden replicas of the short sword, aiming to strike key target areas on their opponent's body while using defensive strategies to avoid incoming attacks. Tankendo emphasizes agility, precision, and the cultivation of a warrior mindset, offering a blend of traditional samurai spirit with the practical combat skills of modern martial arts. It provides a unique path for those interested in exploring Japan's martial evolution and the art of short-range fighting.

Steve Kelsey

Steve is the senior jukendo instructor in the UK. He started practicing jukendo in 1992 under Wakimoto sensei in Japan. He holds the rank of 6th dan in jukendo and tankendo. Here he is receiving instruction from Tsuda (津田) sensei (9th dan) in Japan 2023.

• Tankendo Instruction