Budou (武道) – Japanese Martial Arts

The martial arts are a key element at the VNCS Japanese Cultural Fair. There are many Japanese martial arts groups in Victoria, the groups listed here have been excellent partners in showcasing their chosen arts at the Fair.

Genbukan Kongo Dojo

Genbukan Ninpo Bugei (Ninpo: The Art of the Ninja)

An ancient martial art that has stood the test of time for over 2000 years. It goes beyond mere physical self-defense, encompassing the protection and cultivation of one’s heart and spirit.

A practitioner of Ninpo embodies purity of heart, patience, and an unwavering ability to persevere through any challenge. This revered martial art is defined by its evasive angular movements, distinctive kamae (postures), and a repertoire of devastating strikes, blocks, throws, locks, breaks, and holds.

Learn to harmonize mind and body, gaining a profound understanding of the art’s underlying principles. Unlock the secrets of strategic combat while developing resilience, adaptability, and an indomitable spirit.

Kokusai Jujutsu Renmei (Jujutsu: The Art of the Samurai)

Jujutsu stands as the epitome of the samurai’s combat techniques, focusing on leverage, balance, and technical proficiency.

As a member of the K.J.J.R. (Kokusai Jujutsu Renmei) international organization, we uphold the highest standards of instruction and rank recognition. Grandmaster Tanemura’s federation ensures the credibility and authenticity of our teachings.

Our instructors bring forth the essence of Jujutsu, imparting comprehensive knowledge and refining your skills through careful guidance.

https://kongodojo.ca

Davis Owen Sensei spars with a student at the VNCS 2024 Japanese Cultural Fair (photo by Ken Mizokoshi)

Kenzen Karate

Kenzen Karate is a full-time amateur karate club offering children, teen and adult classes, plus an after school program. Our Coaching Canada certified instructors include national team coach Kraig Devlin and former BC Team junior head coach Richard Mosdell. Kenzen is an official branch of the JKF Wado Kai of Japan as we teach authentic Wado karate, while we are also a member of Karate BC, the provincial sport governing organization for Sport BC. Kenzen offers a pathway to the BC Games, Provincial Championships and the official team selections of the BC Team and national team. https://www.kenzenkarate.com/

Kenzen Karate

Sanshukan Aikido

San Shu Kan: The Hall of The Three Elements of Practice.
The word of “Shu” is translated here as “elements of practice”, but it suggests also
of the idea of refinement that comes with study and patient application. The “three elements of practice” are Technique, Heart, and Body. Although they can be distinguished from one another in theory, they are interdependent, and must be developed harmoniously.

Contact
Sanshukan Dojo Information

For more information visit the Sanshukan Aikido homepage at: http://www.sanshukan.com

Sanshukan Aikido demonstration 2008 (photo by Kevin Dika)
Sanshukan Aikido demonstration 2008 (photo by Kevin Dika)

Shoshinkai Iaido (初心会 居合道) Victoria

Shoshinkai Victoria was originally started by Ted Davis sensei in ~1992, and continues to practice twice weekly since. As the headquarters for the Canadian Iaido Association, we also arrange for yearly seminars in which high-ranking Zen Nippon Iaido Renmei (ZNIR, 全日本居合道連盟, or All Japan Iaido Federation) officials travel from Japan to instruct and invigilate dan examinations. The Canadian Iaido Association is the first foreign dojo to become an official member association (kyoukai, 協会) of the Zen Nippon Iaido Renmei in its 60 year history. The Canadian Iaido Association is also a fully registered non-profit organisation.

Shoshinkai Victoria’s practice times are Wednesday and Friday Nights from 6:30-8:20PM at Lochside school or Commonwealth Gym (depending upon the season) and Saturdays from 1:00-3:00PM at the West Shore recreation centre. Visit http://www.iaido.ca/about/ to see our dojos, or contact Chris Tooley at cetooley@gmail.com or phone at 250-885-2000. Beginners will need a bokuto (wooden sword) and some loose fitting clothing. Please contact Chris before you purchase your wooden sword.

For more information please visit our website at http://www.iaido.ca.

Shohinkai Iaido at the VNCS 2024 Japanese Cultural Fair (photo by Ken Mizokoshi)

Victoria Judo Club

The Victoria Judo Club is a non-profit organization in continuous operation since 1957. The club’s goal is to provide high quality instruction in a safe environment for children, youth, and adults. Judo is a martial art and Olympic sport that is practiced around the world. Judo was developed by Japanese educator Dr. Jigoro Kano from traditional Japanese martial arts and designed to be an ideal form of physical exercise. Judo practitioners seek to attain maximum efficiency with minimum effort (精力善用 Sei-ryoku Zen-you). Judo culture promotes mutual welfare and benefit (自他共栄 Ji-ta Kyou-ei). Our instructors are all volunteers and bring the
commitment and passion that comes from a lifelong dedication to the sport.

Class Times
Juniors: M/W: 6:00-7:15 (Starting Sept 13)
Seniors: M/W: 7:30-9:00
Advanced Teens class Friday: 5:00-7:00pm
Technical Fridays: 7:00-8:30pm

Location
Richmond Elementary
2780 Richmond Rd, Gymnasium (around back)

Contact
Email: info@victoriajudoclub.com
Phone/text: 250-886-0056
For more information.
Website: http://www.victoriajudoclub.com/

Victoria Kendo Club

Kendo was first introduced to Victoria in 1986 by Ted Davis sensei and practices have been held continuously at the University of Victoria since then. UVic Kendo meets three times a week at the University of Victoria and is open to all members of the community.

Contact
Kristine Kosolofski (Victoria Kendo Club President)
https://www.victoriakendo.com/

Victoria Kendo Club at the VNCS 2025 Japanese Cultural Fair (photo by Ken Mizokoshi)
 

For more Budou information visit Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_martial_arts