with Shibata Sensei Kanjuro XX
September 18 - 20, 2009
Kyudo (Zen archery) is one of the oldest arts of the Japanese tradition of contemplative warriorship. It is meditation in action. The aim is not the target, but synchronization of awareness and body in the present moment.
During this weekend intensive, beginning students receive instruction in the basic form, shichi-do, or Seven Coordinations, of Kyudo. This precise form offers the student the opportunity to clean away obstacles to see the mind and qualities of the heart more clearly. The program culminates in first shot, opening the gate to further Kyudo instruction and deepening the practice.
Beginners will work directly with practiced students and progress from dojo etiquette and equipment handling to learning the basic form, shichi-do, or the Seven Coordinations. With leaders of the Zenko Kyudojos working under the personal direction of Shibata Kanjuro XX, this program offers an environment in which beginning and experienced students can advance their practice together. Class equipment will be available and time will be devoted to discussion about equipment care and, as usual, manners.
There are no prerequisites. Beginners and all levels of practitioners welcome, regardless of age, gender, or physical strength. Teens are welcome. All necessary equipment will be provided. There will be a $25 equipment fee. Please bring comfortable clothing.
The program begins on Friday evening, September 18 and ends on Sunday, September 20 in the afternoon.
Program Price: $285
Prices include meals but not accommodations.
It is also a tradition for students to offer the teacher a monetary gift in appreciation for receiving the
teachings and in recognition of the years of training and understanding the teacher has cultivated.
To view scholarship and financial assistance resources, click here.
About Shibata Sensei Kanjuro XX:
Onyumishi Kanjuro Shibata is a 20th generation master bowmaker and archer and the 3rd generation Bowmaker to the Emperor of Japan (now retired). Born in Kyoto, Japan in 1921, Shibata Sensei began training in the Heki Ryu Bishu Chikurin-ha School of kyudo at the age of eight. In 1959, upon the death of his grandfather, Kanjuro XIX, he officially became Kanjuro Shibata XX and assumed his duties as Imperial Bowmaker. By the invitation of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, Kanjuro Shibata XX came to the United States in 1980 to teach kyudo and together with Trungpa Rinpoche, he founded Ryuko Kyudojo (Dragon-Tiger Kyudo Practice Hall) in Boulder, Colorado. Since then, Shibata Sensei has traveled extensively and established kyudojos throughout North America and Europe.
Registration is closed for this program.
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