San Mateo Kendo Dojo

サンマテオ剣道道場

Latest News

September 30, 2025

Catherine Ikeda Wins Women’s Yudansha Division at Hashimoto Hai Kendo Tournament

Group picture of San Mateo Kendo Dojo members at the Hashimoto Hai Kendo Tournament

Catherine Ikeda giving her younger sister, Carolyne, congratulatory head pats

Carolyne Ikeda fighting against three younger girls

Congratulations to Catherine Ikeda who won in the Women’s Yudansha division at the Hashimoto Hai Kendo Tournament in Palo Alto, CA on September 28, 2025!

The Hashimoto Hai Kendo Tournament is an annual event hosted by Palo Alto Kendo Dojo. It’s a “serious but not so serious” tournament held in honor of Dr. Walter Hashimoto, a beloved instructor and friend of the kendo community.

While Catherine was battling her way through the serious division, her sister Carolyne joined in on the fun with a special match against three younger girls. Let’s just say… the next generation proved too much to handle—but Carolyne’s good spirit and laughter reminded everyone what makes this tournament so enjoyable!

Akia Vongdara

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.