Open Night

Wednesday 9th December

The journey of a 1000 miles starts with a single step

Yōshinkan is delighted to welcome you to an open night at our dojo in Mnt Cook School on the 9th of December. We’ll be joined by our friends from Wellington Iaido and Wellington Naginata, and so you’ll have the opportunity to try out three martial arts in one night!

  • Kendo

  • Iaido

  • Naginata

With 2027 just around the corner, now’s a great time to explore a new hobby, and we’re looking forward to introducing you to the budo we love. Our next beginners course will be early next year. In the meantime, whether you met us at the recent Bunkasai or have found us via the web, join us to try it out and take your first steps on the way of the sword!

Sign up below to register your interest.

Key Information

When: 9th December, 6:45pm - 8:15pm

Where: Mt Cook School Hall, 160 Tory Street, Wellington City

Cost: Free

Minimum age: 12

Any questions? hello@yoshinkankendo.nz

More details in the FAQ section below.

Sign Up

Join us and start your journey on the Way of the Sword. Fill in this form, or email us at hello@yoshinkankendo.nz.

FAQs

  • During the open night you’ll get stuck right into an introduction to three martial arts

    • Kendo

    • Iaido

    • Naginata

    You’ll be introduced to the purpose of each, how we practice, and learn some basics. Don’t worry, you’ll get a chance to try every one of them!

    After training, you’re more than welcome to join the team at a social at a local bar.

  • You don't need any equipment, everything will be supplied.  Please wear comfy shorts or ¾ pants (not down to the ground please) and t shirt.  We won’t be going hard out during this introduction, but make sure you’re dressed comfortably for exercise.

    An instructor or senior student will introduce themselves and help you find your feet.

    Let us know if you have a medical condition (we can work around most things so don’t let it put you off). 

  • The Open Night will be free for all attendees.

  • Our Beginners Course is a six week introduction to Kendo. We run two courses a year with the changing of the seasons. Our next beginners course will be in early 2027, and you’re more than welcome if you enjoy your introduction.

    • Every Wednesday, 6:30pm - 8pm (Seniors will continue until 8:15, and you're welcome to watch)

    • Mt Cook School Hall, Tory Street, Wellington City

    • The course is open to anyone 12 years and over

    • Don't worry if you cannot make every session - we all learn at our own pace and we will repeat concepts and fundamentals

    • The price of the course is $40 for 6 lessons.

    Our beginners course will introduce you to the fundamentals of Kendo, including how to hold and swing the bamboo sword, how to stand and move, and how to make correct cuts to your opponent.

    The Iaido and Naginata clubs also run beginners’ courses, and can tell you more on the night.