The digital revolution has touched nearly every aspect of our lives, including the way martial arts are taught and learned. Kendo, the Japanese art of the sword, stands as a bastion of tradition amidst the rapid changes brought by the internet. While the essence of Kendo has remained steadfast through the centuries, the 21st century presents new challenges and opportunities for this ancient practice.
Hiro Imafuji, a 6th Dan Kendo practitioner with a lifetime of experience, embodies the bridge between Kendo's venerable traditions and the modern world. Having started Kendo at age 7 and honed his skills at the esteemed Shubukan dojo in Japan, Imafuji's move to the United States marked the beginning of his journey in adapting Kendo teaching for the digital era.
Imafuji's pioneering effort, the Cyber Dojo, was launched in 2005 as a platform for Kendo instruction, predating the widespread acceptance of online martial arts learning. This initiative has evolved into the comprehensive Kendo Guide site, offering a wealth of resources for enthusiasts worldwide. Imafuji's work highlights the balance between maintaining the integrity of Kendo and embracing the potential of online learning, especially in the face of the pandemic's push towards digital platforms.
However, Imafuji is quick to note the limitations of online learning, emphasizing that video instruction cannot replace the nuanced guidance of in-person training, especially for achieving milestones like the Shodan rank. He stresses the importance of understanding the philosophy and mental discipline integral to Kendo, beyond merely replicating movements.
Kendo's philosophical core is illustrated through the concept of the "4 Sicknesses": Surprise, Doubt, Fear, and Hesitation. These mental barriers are not only relevant within the context of Kendo but also offer profound insights for personal development and overcoming life's challenges. Imafuji's teachings extend beyond the physical aspects of Kendo, focusing on the mental and spiritual growth that the discipline fosters.
Imafuji's commitment to teaching Kendo underscores the art's applicability to modern life and its enduring relevance. He advocates for a holistic approach to Kendo, where the focus is on the journey towards mastery rather than merely scoring points in competition. This perspective reflects the deep philosophical roots of Kendo, drawing from its historical context of life-or-death combat and emphasizing the importance of the right mindset and process over the outcome.
In the face of technological advancements and changing learning paradigms, Imafuji remains dedicated to passing on the authentic essence of Kendo as he learned it. His efforts to adapt and teach Kendo in the modern world serve as a testament to the art's timeless values and its capacity to enrich lives beyond the dojo.