General Articles

KendoNearMe.com is a sideline pilot project by Hokubei Budogu, created with the long-term growth of the kendo community in mind. Hokubei Budogu operates with two core missions: giving back to...

One of the most common points of wear on kendo kote is the palm. With constant gripping, sweating, and friction from the shinai, the palm leather will eventually thin, tear, or...

Hokubei Budogu Partners with Philippines Bogu Inc for Premium Kendo Armor We’re excited to share a major milestone for Hokubei Budogu. We have officially partnered with Philippines Bogu Inc, a...

The Kendo Dictionary is a comprehensive reference created for practitioners of all levels, from beginners stepping into the dojo for the first time to seasoned kendoka seeking deeper understanding. Kendo...

When purchasing a new shinai, one of the most important but often overlooked steps is climatizing the bamboo before use. Shinai are made from natural bamboo that reacts to changes...

Getting your first set of kendo bogu is an exciting milestone. It means you’re ready to move beyond basics and step into real keiko and shiai-style practice. At the same...

At Hokubei Budogu, we’re always looking for ways to support and grow the Kendo community. One of the biggest challenges many dojos face today is having a strong online presence...

Shinai maintenance is a fundamental responsibility in kendo because it directly affects safety, performance, and the spirit of practice. A damaged or poorly maintained shinai can develop cracks and splinters...