San Mateo Kendo Dojo

サンマテオ剣道道場

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October 16, 2025

San Mateo Kendo Dojo Demonstrates at Millbrae Japanese Cultural Festival

Tessier sensei explaining kendo to the audience

Two students sparring with each other, one clearly got a point

Two student striking each other at the same time

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San Mateo Kendo Dojo participated in a demonstration at the Millbrae Japanese Cultural Festival on October 5th, 2025.

The event proceeded smoothly as dojo members demonstrated basic strikes, kata, and a match for the local community. Many attendees were curious and eager to try swinging a shinai for the first time.

And even though it was not pictured, Yamaguchi-san also dedicated his time to organizing kids' activities at his booth throughout the festival.

Special thanks as well to Mark Shigenaga, who took these wonderful photos!

We hope this demonstration will inspire more people to take up kendo in the future!

Akia

Web Admin

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About Kendo

First practice, July 2, 1981 at Bayside Jr. High School

Kendo traces its roots to Japan’s samurai era, evolving from centuries-old swordsmanship traditions into a modern martial art and a sport that emphasizes discipline, respect, and personal growth. Through rigorous training with a bamboo sword (shinai) and protective armor, practitioners build both physical and mental strength.

Founded in 1981, San Mateo Kendo Dojo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit run by volunteer instructors, offering affordable training as part of the Northern California Kendo Federation (NCKF) and All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF).

Our Program

Beginner Class

Our beginner class introduces students of ages 9 and up to Kendo fundamentals such as striking basics, footwork and terminology. Moving on to advanced classes is determined by our sensei, who evaluates mastery of these essential skills, which can take 3-6 months.

Advanced Class

In our advanced class, students wearing bogu (armor) engage in a comprehensive curriculum that begins with warm-ups, advances through basic and then complex striking techniques, culminates in sparring to refine their skills, and prepare them for rank progression. Promotion exams are held every six months, offering students the opportunity to ascend through the ranks based on their mastery and skill development.