銃剣道
Jūkendō
The way of the bayonet
Overview
Jūkendō traces its origins to French bayonet fencing techniques adopted by the Imperial Japanese Army in the late 19th century, refined through the influence of traditional Japanese spear technique — sōjutsu (槍術). The thrusting principles, body mechanics, and combative spirit of classical spear arts were absorbed into the system, giving jūkendō a distinctly Japanese character beneath its modern form. Systematized and codified over decades of military training, it was preserved after the war as a civilian martial discipline, governed today by the All Japan Jūkendō Federation (全日本銃剣道連盟) and its international affiliates.
Training develops powerful thrusting techniques and rapid footwork using the mokujū (wooden training rifle). Advanced students wear bōgu protective armor for partnered kata and competitive practice. The art rewards those who commit to its core mechanics: grip, whole-body structure, and the full transmission of force through the thrust.
Training
- Format
- Kata and sparring
- Equipment
- Mokujū (wooden training rifle), bōgu (armour), dōgi and hakama
- Curriculum
- Kata; keiko (sparring) in bōgu
- Affiliation
- International Jukendo Federation (IJF)
- Grading
- Kyu and dan rankings via IJF and affiliated national body
- Instructors
- Miki Takashima, 3rd dan
Photos
Click/tap an image to enlarge, then again (or press the escape key) to close larger picture.