剣道 · Kendo in Studio City
Find your way of the sword.
For more than 20 years, Studio City Kendo Dojo has helped people in the southeast San Fernando Valley learn kendo. Beginners of all ages are welcome, and your first two practices are free.
Regular practice
Fridays
- All levels7:00pm – 8:35pm
- Advanced8:40pm – 9:00pm
Bridges Academy, 3921 Laurel Canyon Blvd
Practice may be cancelled or moved for holidays and events. Contact us to confirm before your visit.
剣道Kendothe way of the sword
竹刀Shinaibamboo sword
防具Boguarmor
素振りSuburipractice swings
礼Reibow, respect
面Menhead strike
小手Kotewrist strike
胴Dobody strike
Why start here
A neighborhood dojo with a world-class path.
Kids, teens and adults train together.
Our youngest started at 5, our oldest in their 50s.
Free trial
2
practices free, and watching is always free.
Every week
Fridays, 7pm
All levels until 8:35pm, then advanced until 9pm.
20+ years
Teaching kendo in the southeast Valley.
What is kendo?
A modern martial art with samurai roots.
Kendo (剣道), meaning “way of the sword”, is a modern Japanese martial art of sword-fighting based on traditional swordsmanship (Kenjutsu) which originated with the samurai class of feudal Japan.
At our dojo, the goal is simple: enjoy practice and keep growing on your kendo journey. Along the way you build a strong mind and body, and respect for others.
Meet our dojo and instructors
竹刀
Shinai
bamboo sword
防具
Bogu
armor
素振り
Suburi
practice swings
Getting started
Your first visit, step by step.
Never held a sword before? That is how almost everyone starts.
01Get in touch
Send us a quick message before you visit so we know to expect you and can suggest a good Friday to come.
02Watch or try a practice
Observe a class for free, or jump in. Your first two practices are a free trial, and there is no need to buy gear first.
03Learn the basics
Beginners start with etiquette, footwork, posture, how to hold the shinai and practice swings called suburi.
Who practices here
There is no age limit in kendo.
Complete beginners
Most people outside of Japan start kendo as adults. No martial arts background needed, just curiosity.
Kids and families
Our youngest student started at 5. Kids do best once they have a good attention span, and families can train together.
Returning kendoka
Already practice kendo? You are welcome here. Get in touch before your first visit and come train with us.
Beyond the dojo
From Friday practice to Nationals.
Members compete with Team SCKO at tournaments across Southern California and at the national level, and bring home medals along the way. Competing is always optional.
Find us
Bridges Academy
3921 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604
Quick answers
- Is there a free trial?
- Yes, we do offer free trials for up to two practices.
- Can I watch first?
- Yes, you can observe our practice at no charge. Please get in touch with us before coming to watch.
- Do I need gear?
- Please consult us before buying any gear unless you are experienced in Kendo.
Curious? Come see a practice.
Watching is always free, and your first two practices are on us. Send us a note and we will help you pick a Friday.