San Mateo Kendo Dojo

サンマテオ剣道道場

Latest News

April 3, 2026

San Jose Kendo Tournament — SMKD Women's Team Takes First Place!

San Mateo Kendo Dojo members at the San Jose Kendo Tournament

This past Sunday we competed in the San Jose Kendo Tournament.

Huge congratulations to our women's team, who brought home first place! The lineup was Carolyne Ikeda and Catherine Ikeda alongside Wang-san from Mt. View Kendo Dojo.

We were also thrilled to have a few members who competed for the very first time. Stepping into tournament armor takes courage; we're proud of everyone who went out there and gave it their all. On to the next one!

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.