Chicago Naginata Kai

The study of naginata is to nurture people harmoniously in mind and body.

– All Japan Naginata Federation

Atarashii Naginata, Tendo ryu Naginatajutsu

We train in the art of the naginata, traditionally a pole arm that has a Japanese sword blade mounted on a long handle.

In combat the naginata could be used to slash and cut graceful arcs as well as to thrust. Over time, the Naginata became a weapon of self-defense, used by women to protect their homes. Naginata is now practiced outside of Japan by men and women of many ages. One of the styles we practice is the modern (gendai) form called Atarashii Naginata “new Naginata”. It employs the use of a bamboo and oak naginata for practice & competition.

Individual and partner training consists of happoburi, uchikaeshi, shikake-oji, kihon, kata, and shiai (matches). In Shiai, protective equipment similar to that worn in Kendo is employed, with the addition of Suneate (shin guards). A student who has acquired an exceptional grasp of basics will start to practice with armour (bogu) and learn to strike protected parts of the body directly.

As a student develops, they can move into the classical (koryu) techniques of the Tendo-Ryu tradition. Tendo-Ryu the “School of the Way to Heaven” dates back to the late 1500s. It uses the naginata, but also the practice of various other weapons: the long and short swords, both swords (nito-ryu), two kinds of daggers, the staff (representing the shaft of a broken naginata), and the Japanese sickle with a chain (kusarigama).

The Chicago Naginata Kai members are part of the Rocky Mountain Federation and United States Naginata Federation. We are overseen by Takami Tanner Sensei of the Rocky Mountain Federation. Tanner Sensei holds the rank of 5th dan (Renshi) in Atarashii Naginata and the president of Bitokukai.

BENEFITS OF NAGINATA

We believe in training with the six virtues of benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, sincerity, and bravery.

Naginata is an art that can be enjoyed by everyone, from the youngest grade–schooler to the oldest senior citizen. The benefits derived from learning Naginata affect many aspects of a persons everyday life.

These include:

CLASS LOCATION, SCHEDULE, AND COST

START YOUR FREE INTRO CLASS TODAY

Location: Kogetsukai trains at Daiyuzenji Rinzai Zen Temple 3717 N. Ravenswood Ave #112 Chicago, IL 60613

Kogetsukai gratefully accepts your tax-deductible donations for classes at Daiyuzenji (a not-for-profit organization). 100% of your contribution goes toward the continuing upkeep of Daiyuzenji temple.