Kyudo (Japanese Archery)

Kyudo is a traditional Japanese martial art in which form takes precedence over accuracy.I have been practicing kyudo in the Nihon Renmei style for 15 years and currently hold the rank of 5th dan. Those interested in seeing some kyudo can click on the links below.

Clip 1 – When doing kyudo formally in a test or ceremony, the long form (taihai) is used where the kimono is prepared for shooting and one sits down while others shoot. This form takes about 10 minutes. (Mov. clip thanks to Suzuki-san)

Taihai (long form) (Quicktime)

Taihai (long form) (Windows)

Clip 2 – This is a 2 minute clip of one shot from the same two shot sequence shown in Clip 1, but from closer. (Mov. clip thanks to Joachim Oberhammer)

One shot – low res easy load (Windows or Mac)

One shot – (Quicktime)

Click on these links to see some video of me practicing at the Kyoto Budo Center in 2020.

If you are interested in learning more about Kyudo, here are some online articles:

Principles of Training – by Earl Hartman
The Myth of Zen in the Art of Archery – by Shoji Yamada
Zen in the Art of Archery: A Practicioner’s View – by Liam O’Brien