Founded in 1981—but tracing its roots back to a pre-World War II club—San Mateo Kendo Dojo has a long, proud history of sharing the art of kendo in the Bay Area. It was reestablished by Jiro Sakano Sensei (7 Dan Hanshi) of Mt. View Dojo, Tsugio Nakano Sensei (7 Dan Kyoshi) of San Jose Dojo and Masaru Ogihara Sensei (5 Dan at the time), alongside passionate families who wanted to bring kendo back to San Mateo. The dojo officially became the ninth member of the Northern California Kendo Federation (NCKF) in 1982 and has since hosted milestone anniversary tournaments, celebrating its vibrant community and the growth of kendo in the region.

Over the decades, San Mateo Kendo Dojo has served students of all ages and backgrounds, adjusting practice locations and expanding class offerings to accommodate its growing membership. Now, the dojo continues to thrive thanks to the generous support of local recreation departments. Under the guidance of Chief Instructor (Shihan) Satoru Konopka Sensei and our retired Chief Instructor, Masaru Ogihara Sensei (7 Dan Kyoshi)—we remain dedicated to teaching the discipline and camaraderie of kendo. Today, our members continue to train diligently at Tuesday practices in San Mateo and Saturday classes in Burlingame, honoring the tradition that began more than four decades ago.