General Articles

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...

The center of gravity (CG) of a kendo shinai affects how it feels in your hands—whether light and fast or heavy and powerful. Finding it is simple: balance your shinai...

SEUSKF T-shirts are now available, and every purchase directly supports TEAM SEUSKF as they prepare for the 2026 AUSKF Nationals! Printed on soft navy cotton, these shirts come in three...

In the world of Kendo, every movement, stance, and strike is rooted in centuries of tradition and discipline. While most practitioners focus on the shinai (bamboo sword), the bokuto (wooden...