Kuroyama Budokai is a Canberra-based martial arts club that specialises in the study of Budo, a term used in Japan to describe martial ways. Established in 2007, the club takes its name from its original training location at the Australian National University, situated at the base of Black Mountain in Canberra.
At Kuroyama Budokai, the study of Budo goes beyond the physical and technical aspects of fighting. The club aims to help modern students achieve control and coordination of both the mind and body, while preserving the ancient combat techniques. By practising Budo, members develop themselves mentally and spiritually, in addition to cultivating their physical skills.
The club's principal instructors have received training from senior teachers in Japan and regularly participate in seminars conducted by high-ranking delegates from Australia and Japan. These instructors possess technical knowledge recognised through official grades awarded by relevant Australian or international governing bodies.
Kuroyama Budokai currently offers various disciplines to its members.
1. Jodo: Students can study controlled swordsmanship, achieved through drawing the sword from its sheath and performing a series of cutting actions in response to an attack.
2. Iaido: This discipline focuses on the study of a four-foot wooden staff used to defend against an attack from a Japanese sword.
3. Kyudo: The club provides training in the etiquette of the Japanese longbow.
4. Naginata: Although currently on hold, Kuroyama Budokai invites expressions of interest for the resumption of training in Naginata, which involves the study of a longer-range battlefield weapon consisting of a wooden staff with a curved blade on the end.
5. Aikido: Kuroyama Budokai offers a study group in Aikido, a discipline centred around body movements aimed at evading or redirecting attacks. Students learn techniques such as throws, joint-locks, escapes, and counterstrikes.
6. Kendo: Students interested in applied swordsmanship in a competitive and combative environment can receive guidance and advice on training opportunities with associated clubs in Canberra.
For those interested in joining Kuroyama Budokai or seeking further information, the club can be contacted via email at kuroyama. Budokai@gmail. Com or by telephone at +61 413 807 555.