Kyudo

A lesson in Japanese-style archery promises to be great fun, and will introduce you to an interesting side of Japanese culture at the same time as teaching you a brand-new skill.

Japanese archery, known as kyudo, is an extremely popular martial art in Japan; most high schools have a kyudo club. The first images of archery in Japan date back to the Yayoi period (500BC - 300AD) but the practice really took off in the 12th century when it was adopted by samurai as part of their training.

InsideJapan are able to arrange a private kyudo lesson with a master archer during your time in Kyoto. His English is basic but his friendly nature and humour more than make up for it! By copying the instructors movements, you'll have a go at shooting arrows from a two metre long kyudo bow. An important part of kyudo is the ritual preparation of each shot in order to train your mind as much as your body.

Kyudo

located in Kyoto

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