Training in Tokyo...

[IRJ]

Hi everyone,

I'm thinking of doing the IBU program in 2005, however I'd prefer to be closer to Tokyo and all the action there. Does anyone have any ideas on how I could do this?

For example, would it be possible to just do a Japanese language program in Tokyo and then join a local dojo or two to practice at in the mornings and/or evenings? I heard that some dojos can only be joined by invitation. Also, my Japanese will be pretty academic and minimal when I get there.

[Ares2907]

I believe that there are other universities that run much the same program, but they tend not to advertise it. You might try Nittaidai (Nihon Taiku Daigaku) for a start. Kokushikan used to have a similar program, but that was before they got their club banned from competition, so I dunno about it anymore, anyway, there are quite a few universities in the Tokyo area that have very strong kendo clubs, try them first.
If not, teaching english or otherwise finding allegedly gainful employment is another option. Some dojos are invitation only, but it shouldn't be too hard to get an invitation/introduction. The majority will most likely accept you if you turn up on the doorstep, but if you had a note in Japanese that said something to the effect of
'please do what you can to help this strange gaijin learn kendo', then it might make life easier.
hth

[kendomushi]

Finding a dojo in Tokyo takes some effort, they are not marked by huge neon signs or anything. But there are more dojo here than any other part of the country.
If you come to Tokyo by way of something other than a university, drop me a line here when you get settled in and I will check with my sensei as to where the nearest, best dojo might be for you. (I'm out in the western end of Tokyo prefecture myself, about an hour from the city proper).