Hyogo Sport Association

KYUDO(Japanese art of archery) Experience

Kyudo (Japanese art of  archery):
Its Heart and Spirit

Kyudo is one of the traditional Japanese Budo arts, emphasizing the harmony of mind and body and self-discipline. Its goals are encapsulated in the words “Shin”(truth), “Zen”(goodness), and “Bi”(beauty). ‘Shin’ refers to the accuracy of the technique, ‘Zen’ indicates civility and harmony with others, and “Bi” represents the dignity that is revealed from the integration of the spirit and the technique.



Kyudo emphasizes not only technical precision but also inner stillness and concentration leading to regulating one's state of mind. By doing so, it brings harmony to daily.  By releasing arrows without a thought, archers look into their own minds and face their inner enemies, such as mental fluctuation and turmoil. In the process, one unifies the mind and technique and completes“jutsu no nai jutsu” (art without art).set


target
The series of movements to draw the bow are the discipline itself, and the essence of Kyudo is a dialogue with the self that transcends victory and defeat. The inner growth nurtured through Kyudo deepens and enriches one's life and fosters the ability to harmonize with others and society. The beautiful bow that is ultimately made perfect symbolizes the harmony of mind and technique.


Kyudo Experience
at Hyogo Prefectural  Kyudo Hall

Hyogo Prefectural Kyudo Hall (“Kudokan” in Japanese) is located at the northern end of the Prefectural Akashi Castle Park, which is centered on the ruins of Akashi Castle. Its surroundings provide a relaxing environment, with the nature of the four seasons, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and birds chirping in the silence. At the Kyudo Hall, situated in such a tranquil space, people who wish to master the art of Kyudo practice their skills silently and diligently every day, whilst Kyudo experience programs are offered for beginners and experienced players alike.



readyIn Kyudo, bowmen aim for accurate shooting by learning the eight basic movements called “eight sections of archery”. In the Kyudo Experience Program, even a beginner can participate, and an experienced instructor will kindly teach him or her etiquette, bow handling, and basic movements. The essence of Kyudo is not only to hit the target with an arrow but also to cultivate mental stability by harmonizing the mind and body through breathing and gestures. Deep breathing keeps the body relaxed, and beautiful gestures and concentration produce accurate shooting. Kyudo is also a place to discipline the mind, fostering a mentality of equanimity regardless of pleasure or displeasure. This gives even beginners a chance to experience the deep spiritual world of Kyudo.



In addition to the Kyudo hall, Hyogo Prefectural Akashi Park features historical remains of the castle ruins including turrets that are designated as nationally important cultural heritages, and a Japanese garden (restored) designed by Miyamoto Musashi, one of Japan's most famous swordsmen. A stroll through the park will allow visitors to deeply immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture.

If you are interested in the Kyudo Experience Program and would like to ask a question or join the program, please fill out each item in the inquiry form below and press the send button. The Kyudo Hall office will reply to you at the earliest possible time.		Hyogo_Prefectural_Akashi_Park

Impressions from foreigners who experienced Kyudo for the first time



Inquiry Form

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