San Mateo Kendo Dojo

サンマテオ剣道道場

Latest News

December 8, 2025

Ota sensei was promoted to 5 dan

Ota sensei teaching beginnersclass in Burlingame

Ota sensei was recently promoted to 5 dan! This is a remarkable milestone and a testament to his dedication, discipline, and years of hard work.

Ota sensei began his kendo journey with our dojo in 1999. Since then, he has played a vital role in supporting and managing the dojo, especially our Foster City classes before our move to Burlingame. Over the years, many members have come and gone, but Ota sensei has remained a steady and unwavering presence. He is now the longest-serving member of San Mateo Kendo Dojo.

Congratulations, Ota sensei! We are incredibly proud of you and grateful for your continued commitment to our community.

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.