Kyudo (“the way of the bow”) is a traditional Japanese archery discipline. It is a budo martial art based on classical military skills, similar to iaido, kendo, judo, or karatedo. The history of Kyudo extends far back into Japan’s past. As in all forms of archery, the goal in Kyudo is to hit the target. In addition, the practice also emphasizes correct form, aesthetics, and overall quality of execution. The emphasis on different aspects of the art may vary between different Kyudo schools.
Kyudo uses a ranking system similar to other traditional budo disciplines. However, the ranks are not displayed on clothing, unlike the colored belts in judo and karate. The kyu ranks, from fifth to first, correspond to “colored belts,” while dan ranks, from first to tenth, correspond to black belts.
In the Helsinki metropolitan area, Kyudo is practiced by the Helsinki-based budo club Hikari in cooperation with Takado. During Takado’s sessions at the Tuulimäki archery hall, instruction is provided by Hikari’s teachers.