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.
Kenzen Karate
Kenzen Karate offers expert instruction in our beautiful full-time dojo for:
- Samurai Kids: ages 4–6
- Juniors: ages 7–11
- Teens: ages 12-15
- Adults: ages 16+
We also run exciting school break karate camps that combine focus, fitness, and fun.
Our students enjoy a welcoming, beginner-friendly karate experience within our warm karate community, featuring free trials and uniforms, affordable no-contract tuition and a wide range of weekly classes.
Our Coaching Canada certified instructors include:
Richard Mosdell, 6th Dan — former BC Team Head Coach
Pete Williams, 5th Dan — Karate Canada National Judge
Both have spent many years in Japan as professional Karate instructors, and are assisted by other black belt instructors with decades of experience.
Kenzen maintains a direct connection to our headquarters in Japan, ensuring students learn authentic Shito-ryu karate at the highest standard.
As a member of Karate BC, Kenzen provides a proven pathway to:
- Local tournaments
- BC Games
- Provincial Championships
- BC Team selection
- National Team opportunities
Our athletes have earned provincial titles, national gold medals, and international success, and our non-competitive students truly achieve excellence through persistent training.
Discover what makes Kenzen different.
Visit: kenzenkarate.com
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
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.
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/
For more Budou information visit Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_martial_arts