In 2025, Tenri University celebrates its 100th anniversary, and the Faculty of Physical Education marks its 70th year.
As part of these commemorative initiatives, a special cultural tourism program will be offered for kendo practitioners, particularly those from overseas.
The project aims to provide participants with a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture and history through the practice of kendo. For anyone who studies kendo and wishes to deepen their understanding of its cultural and historical roots, Nara is a sacred place that they should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Tour Overview
Eligibility
Participants should have experience in kendo and an interest in Japanese culture and history.
Schedule
February 18 (Wed) to February 23 (Mon), 2026
Please note that February 18 (Wed) is the pre-arrival night.
Capacity
Limited to 20 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.
Application
Please apply using the form below.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQYZEr-L5QpwnrjURE5ScGmZJUQ3eaBgFByaztse00Qd16-g/viewform?usp=header
Day 1: Exploring the Roots of Kendo and Its Equipment
The World of Jikishinkage-ryu and the Craftsmanship Behind Kendo Equipment.
Participants will learn about Jikishinkage-ryu, which is considered one of the roots of modern kendo practice, as well as the craftsmanship that goes into traditional kendo equipment.
9:00 Opening Ceremony
We will begin the program with an opening ceremony.
9:15 Lecture: “The Origins of Modern Kendo – Jikishinkage-ryu”
A lecture introducing Jikishinkage-ryu, a classical swordsmanship school that greatly influenced the development of modern kendo.
12:00 Lunch Break
13:00 Workshop: “Kendo Equipment Maintenance”
A kendo equipment craftsman will demonstrate how to properly handle and maintain kendo equipment.
15:00 Experience Session: “Forms of Classical Swordsmanship (Jikishinkage-ryu)”
Participants will practice Hojō, one of the fundamental kata of Jikishinkage-ryu, experiencing firsthand the roots of kendo.
16:30 Optional Practice Session
A voluntary practice session will be held. A few Japanese kendo practitioners are scheduled to join.
Day 2: Tracing the Origins of Myth and Martial Traditions
9:00 Lecture: Japanese Mythology and Kendo
This lecture explores the spirit of the sword and martial values found in Japanese mythology, and how these ideas connect to modern kendo.
11:00 Shrine Visit: Isonokami Shrine, Dedicated to the Deity of the Sword
Participants will visit Isonokami Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan, and learn about the ancient traditions of sword worship.
12:30 Lunch Break
14:00 Lecture: Martial Arts Cultivated in the Land of Yamato
This session introduces two highly influential martial traditions in Japanese history:
Yagyū Shinkage-ryu swordsmanship and Hōzōin-ryu spearmanship.
Participants will learn how these famous schools developed in the region of Yamato.
16:30 Optional Practice Session
A voluntary practice session will be held for those who wish to participate.
Day 3: Exploring Hōzōin-ryu and the Sacred Martial Sites of Nara
10:00–12:00 Observation: Hōzōin-ryu Spearmanship Practice (Nara City Central Martial Arts Hall)
Participants will observe a training session of Hōzōin-ryu spearmanship, one of Japan’s most esteemed classical martial arts, and experience its techniques and spirit.
12:00 Lunch Break
13:00 Shrine and Temple Visit: Kasuga Taisha and Kōfuku-ji
We will visit Kasuga Taisha, revered as a guardian of martial traditions, and Kōfuku-ji, the birthplace of Hōzōin-ryu spearmanship.
After the visit, participants may freely explore the Nara Park area. Highlights include the Great Buddha of Tōdai-ji and the Ashura statue of Kōfuku-ji.
This is an excellent opportunity to experience Japan’s renowned Buddhist culture.
17:00 Meeting Point: JR Nara Station
Day 4: Exploring Samurai Heritage and the Culture of the Sword
7:30 Optional Morning Practice
A voluntary early-morning keiko session for those who wish to participate.
9:00 Departure from Tenri University
10:00 Guided Tour of Yagyū Village
We will visit locations connected to the Yagyū swordsmanship tradition, including Hōtoku-ji Temple, Ittōseki, and the former Yagyū Domain headquarters. Participants will trace the history of the famed Yagyū family, renowned masters of the sword.
14:00 Visit: Iga Bamboo Sword Craftsman’s Workshop
Participants will observe the production process of shinai up close and gain insight into the craftsmanship and spirit behind their creation.
17:00 Return to Tenri University
18:30 Sayonara Party
A closing gathering to celebrate the end of your cultural experience.
Day 5: Modern Kendo and Jikishinkage-ryu
9:00 Lecture: “The Significance of Classical Kata (Jikishinkage-ryu) in Modern Kendo”
Although modern kendo and classical swordsmanship may appear different at first glance, their essential principles remain closely connected.
This lecture explores how classical kata continue to play an important role in modern kendo, focusing on Jikishinkage-ryu as a representative example.
10:00 Practice Session: Jikishinkage-ryu Kata Training
Participants will once again practice Hojō, seeking to understand how its principles can be applied to modern kendo.
11:30 Optional Practice Session
A voluntary keiko session will be held for those who wish to participate.
12:30 Closing Ceremony
The program concludes with a closing ceremony.
Estimated Participation Cost
| Item | Unit Cost × Days | Amount (JPY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 1,200 yen × 5 nights | 6,000 yen | Includes the pre-arrival night |
| Lunch | 900 yen × 5 days | 5,000 yen | |
| Bus fare (Day 4) | — | 10,000 yen | |
| Interpreter fee | 2,000 yen × 5 days | 10,000 yen | |
| Party fee (Day 4) | — | 5,000 yen | Sayonara party |
The following expenses are not included and must be paid separately by participants:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Souvenirs
- Train fares and other transportation costs for each transfer
Accommodation
Participants will stay at a tsumesho, a lodging facility operated by Tenrikyō. Although it is originally intended for followers of the religion, it is being kindly made available to us at a reduced rate.
Please be sure to follow all facility rules and instructions, which will be explained upon arrival.
Please note that accommodation only is provided. Meals are not included.
Observation of Hōzōin-ryu Practice
Training sessions of Hōzōin-ryu spearmanship are not held every day.
If the scheduled visit date does not coincide with an actual practice day, the observation session may need to be canceled. We kindly ask for your understanding in advance.
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