Testimonials
I have been training for three months with Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai and love the classes! The instructor is very humble and extremely patient with the learning process for those of us who have no training in the martial arts. Being older with several physical limitations has not hindered me from learning the sword. The classes provide me with a great physical workout, but more than this, I am learning to focus on the details of my movements, perfect the movements through repetition and awareness, and join my mind and body with the sword as an extension of my being and its connection to the universe. I am enjoying learning a centuries old traditional Japanese martial art and the discipline it entails to perform this art. I expect to continue my training with Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai for years to come and become a devoted practitioner of the art. I also look forward to deepening my study of the history of the art and the Japanese culture that influences it. I would highly recommend this school to anyone who has not studied martial arts and may be intimidated by the physical nature of learning a martial art. Training with the instructor and students in my classes has removed my fears and opened a new sense of confidence for me.
~Dave M.
Having studied martial arts my entire life, I have developed a good sense of how well teachers are able to convey their knowledge and mastery of their art. I rate Sensei Matsumoto as the very best. His ability to communicate, his sense of pacing, and his humility are superb. For anyone interested in studying budo weapons through a series of clear and logical training progressions, I highly recommend Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai!
~Toby R. (托能)
I enjoy the class as it teaches me many valuable techniques, movements, and meditation. The whole atmosphere there is very friendly, polite, and welcoming. The instructor is very helpful and patient. He carefully guides everyone through the process by pointing out and correcting certain mistakes, while making sure that everyone understands everything he is teaching in each class. He is also always open to any questions that you might have. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in martial arts.
~Alexander M.
いろいろな形や運用を習い、練習していくうちに少しずつ体になじんで身についていく体感が、たまらなく面白い。トレーナーの方は、それぞれのレベルに合わせて指導してくれるので、次にどう努力すればよいのかもわかりやすく、進歩が感じられる。歳や性別、体の柔軟さなどの個性に合わせて自分なりの技を磨けるのが、この会の魅力だと思う。
~Hiroshi F.
I have taken a few classes of Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoy it. It's my first time learning a martial art, and my previous image of martial arts was that it's very rigid and strict, and takes a bit of courage to start. But the knowledgeable instructor here provide an open, welcoming atmosphere where everyone is respected, so I think anyone of any age or background would feel comfortable participating.
I never imagined that so much balance and concentration would be needed in wielding or drawing out a sword. Just like the title, both the mind and body become activated. Half of the class is improving the balance and coordination of the body, and the other half is preparing the mental state. You become more aware of your body and your surroundings. This is almost like active meditation--I feel peaceful after every lesson. The movements are not strenuous, so it's great for people who want to experience the essence of martial arts with low to moderate physical exertion.
~Lisa O.
I highly recommend this class. Instructor is excellent. The best class I have ever taken.
~Mika. Y.
もう五十余年も前の話ですが、僕は中学の柔道部の稽古中、近くで稽古する剣道部の連中がとても勇ましく、袴姿を羨ましく思ったものです。幼少の病の後遺症で左手の不自由な僕のMind-Body Kenjutsu-Iaiへの参加は、丹下左膳の再来ではありませんが、片腕剣士にチャンスを与えてくれる大らかな雰囲気と、剣士達やインストラクターがファースト・ネームで呼び合うプレッシャーレスな仲間達の集まりみたいな所でもあります。 でも僕にとって、これはやはり一つのチャレンジには違いありません。免許皆伝なるか、破門されるか、これからが見所です！
~Shige K.
何の予備知識も無く始めた剣術居合ですが、型を覚えて実戦をすると言うだけでなく、宇宙、地球と繋がり全ての気配を感じて動くと言う基本概念を知り、日本の伝統、武道の奥深さに感激しています。インストラクターはとても謙虚で忍耐強く、何度でも丁寧に教えてくれるので、初心者でもクラスの居心地は良いです。従来の武道の堅苦しさが無いので、気軽に続ける事が出来そうです。又、知らないうちに結構な運動量になっているので、良いエクササイズになっています。瞑想も含めたこのクラスは心身共に良い効果があると思います。
I started this class without any knowledge about Kenjutsu-Iai, but I was surprised to learn that the basic principle of Japanese tradition and martial art is to first connect with the universe and the earth and to be aware of everything around you before beginning movements. The instructors are so humble and patient. They take the time to teach me until I’ve mastered the form, so I never feel like I’m being left behind. Because this class is less rigid in structure compared to most traditional classes, I feel that I can continue taking classes for a long time. You learn to be in a state of meditation, but you also work out more than you realize, so this class is good for both mind and body.
~Mayumi O.
Hello, my name is Erik and I'm currently training with Matsumoto-San. His Kenjutsu, Iaido class offers spiritual enlightenment and Swordsmanship mastered from Japanese martial arts. I've practiced Karate for a couple of years in the past. Learning Kata/Fighting Forms from masters is an opportunity of a lifetime. And I'm excited to learn how to properly draw and wield the Katana Sword. The ultimate weapon. 頑張りましょう。 エリーク
~Erik F.
映画やテレビドラマでしか見たことが無い剣術を、自分が体験する事に快感を覚えます。新しい型を覚える度に、殺陣の事がおぼろげながらわかる気がします。静と動がある稽古を毎週楽しみにしています。
It is very exciting to actually experience Kenjutsu-Iai, which I have only seen in TVs and movies before. Each time I learn a new form, I can better relate to sword-fighting choreographs used in the movies. Each week, I look forward to attending classes with a perfect balance of physical training and meditative training.
~Mike O.
I am so happy that I found Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai! It has been exactly what I needed. The class’s meditative aspect has helped me find my center even in the chaos of life during COVID, all while learning both practical sword fighting skills and the art of Iaido. Importantly, Junji is the best kind of teacher. He is patient and kind with a calming demeanor, provides clear instruction, and is always happy to answer questions. I’ve taken the group class and am now taking private lessons and can’t recommend it enough.
~Brendan H.
格闘技は中学からボクシングを習っていました。その後空手、中国拳法などを習いました。剣に興味があり、今回参加させてもらいました。若いときは力と思っていましたが、力は年々衰えます。居合道および剣術は年を取ってからでもまだまだ伸びることが出来ると実感しています。生涯現役を目指してこれからも稽古に精進していきたいと思います。
I studied boxing when I was in junior high school. Then practiced Karate and Chinese Kung Fu, later. I joined this class, for I have had an interest in swordsmanship for a while. When I was younger, I thought physical strength was one of the most important quality to have in martial arts, however as I got older, I realized it is not so. Kenjutsu and Iaido are one of the few martial arts in which you can improve markedly even as you age; and I can definitely feel it. I will enjoy, train, and strive in these arts as my life-long passion.
~TJ B.
The Mind-Body Kenjustsu-Iai really incorporates both the mental and physical aspects in the training. To me, it seems somewhat like yoga, for the class flows at a rather comfortable pace and by the end of it, you are relaxed and freed of any stiffness. I am still in junior high, but all the online learning and use of electronics keeping me seated all day have made my body stiff. I think the Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai provides a fun and extraordinary way of getting moderate fitness & meditation into the day. Before, I never imagined having a martial art as one of my hobbies!
~Emma M.
I like my Iaido class because my teacher and my assistant are very nice and helpful. Also, Kenjutsu-Iaido is a very good exercise and fun!
~Elen T.
全くの初心者からスタートし、当クラスに通わせていただき数ヶ月経ちました。インストラクターの方はとても丁寧にわかりやすく教えてくださり、一つ一つ理解し稽古に励むことができます。稽古も安全で楽しく、生徒さんたちもとても良い方達ばかりです。競争や勝敗に拘らない、自分磨き、己に克つ精神を養えて健康管理もできる。居合道はとても素晴らしいと思います。初心者の方に特にお勧めです。
Started as a complete beginner, I have been training for several months by now. The instructor gives very easy to grasp, detailed guidance, so I am able to train with logical understanding of each exercise and move. The overall atmosphere is very fun and safe. Other students are all wonderful people and I don't feel any competitiveness stress from anyone. I think Kenjutsu-Iaido is a wonderful art that helps me improve my physical health, as well as mental aspects of self-polishing and self-control. I highly recommend this art, especially to beginners.
~Tommy T.
I’ve been going to Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai for a couple months now. Everyone is so nice and Matsumoto-San is very patient and he will go over all of the motions with you until you get it right. So far I’ve learned forms, guards, how to handle my sword, and more. I’ve also learned good meditation techniques! It’s a lot of fun, and I’ve even recommended my brother come to classes with me. I first decided to try this class because I’ve always been interested in taking martial arts, and Japanese sword fighting in particular because of the anime I’ve watched, and my interest in Japanese culture. This class is traditional, fun, and relaxing. I am overall satisfied with my experience here and have been encouraged to try more martial arts. Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai has become my first stepping stone into martial arts as I plan to take many more in the future!
~Morgan D.
「居合」という言葉の意味すらほぼ知識がない状態で参加しましたが、即座に虜になりました。松本先生のきめ細やかで、こころのこもったご指導や、先生の居合そのものに対する敬意、そしてその道の奥深さを最初の１時間程で目の当たりにしました。自分が木刀を持ち、稽古をする事に喜びを感じる事に頭がついて行かない程、居合道の魅力に不思議なご縁すら感じます。足腰にかなりの力を求められる武道ならではの運動にもなりますし、この御時世ですが、地に足が着いた精神的な安らぎも稽古を通して得られる事等心から感謝しています。
I had little to no knowledge regarding 'Iai' or 'Iai-do' prior to taking Matsumoto Sensei's class, but I was immediately charmed by it. This is mostly due to Matsumoto sensei's attentive and embracing method of teaching, and his love and respect for the practice which I felt at home with. I felt the complex and wondrous practice of Iai-do immediately in the first hour or so of the first class I took. I had never imagined that I would be holding a wooden sword and feeling content by practicing swordsmanship. I feel very lucky and honored to have met Matsumoto sensei and his practice, who has introduced me to the way of Iai-do. The practice is physically challenging at times, which is a great way to exercise, and it also gives me a sense of serenity and a sense of calm, which I am grateful for.
~Chika S.
I first met Junji-San (instructor) while out with my family and he was with his family at the same park. Our kids started to play together and we started a conversation. He was very kind and open to meeting talking. As we spoke the subject came up about martial arts. I have studied karate for the most part and when Junji said he was teaching Kenjutsu I was ecstatic to find out he was teaching Kenjutsu. I have always wanted to study Kenjutsu. I have been studying karate for some time now and I was having trouble finding a place to continue my study and involve my kids as well. We just moved in from out of state and covid19 made things very difficult to find anyone to work with. I still love Karate and study on my own, but an instructor is irreplaceable. Junji-San is teaching in parks with the proper covid 19 protections. And within a couple weeks my boys and I were at our first lesson and truly enjoyed it. Junji is a skilled martial artist and a pleasure to watch perform the movements and more importantly he is a great teacher. If you have ever wanted to learned Kenjutsu then Junji is a great instructor to learn from. He is open to private lessons and to working with kids. I believe that as I have moved around that the people make the area what it is more than anything else Junji has made California a better place for me and my family. I have moved many times and had the pleasure to make some great people especially in the martial arts world. Junji has been a blessing to move beyond the barriers of covid19 and find some peace.
~Scott C.
全くの初心者で剣術を習い始めて数ヶ月になります。剣の動きやテクニックなど体を動かすだけでなく、精神を集中したり、心を空にして瞑想の体勢になるなど、精神的な訓練にもなっています。剣術を始めてからサムライの時代劇や「鬼滅の刃」などのアニメの面白さも倍増しました！先生は習う人に合わせてわかりやすく教えて下さるので、安心して稽古に参加することができます。青空の下、稽古仲間と木刀を振る時間を毎週楽しみにしています。
It has been a few months since I started taking kenjutsu as a beginner. What I have been learning through the training is not just physical such as sword techniques and movements, but also mental such as mental concentration, emptying the mind, and assuming meditation posture. Since I started training kenjutsu, I enjoy Samurai movies and animations such as "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" exceedingly more! Instructor teaches the class, closely tailoring to each student's level and needs, so you can participate the class without any concerns. Every week, I truly look forward to spending time wielding wooden swords with fellow students under blue sky.
~Erika N.
"As a big fan of both anime and video games, I decided to take up Kenjutsu-Iai after wanting to take up a martial art that seemed cool and appealed the most to my interests. After practicing for almost 5 months now, I've learned a lot of forms and techniques that just feel really cool to execute and even act as a great addition to my current workout regimen during the week. Matsumoto-san has been a fantastic instructor that's super encouraging of his student's motivations to learn the way of the sword!"
~Kary Q.
As a person who grew up enamored with the original Star Wars trilogy, I’ve always had a (not-so-secret) desire to be a Jedi. Over the years I’ve studied a number of martial arts: Tae Kwon Do, Wrestling, Jujutsu and Kung Fu. Kung Fu introduced me to adding deep meditative techniques along with the martial fighting techniques, but they are separated while practicing (at least at the levels I attained). Studying Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai with Junji-San I’ve learned to blend meditation and fighting together during the practice. His instruction is both gentle and firm. He gives minor corrections where necessary and doesn’t allow me to build “bad” muscle memory for specific techniques I may have practiced improperly. Each lesson I walk away with one or two more things to work on and feel I progress at each lesson. Because of my schedule I’ve mostly been taking private lessons, but I have absolutely enjoyed the handful of group lessons I could make it to. The rest of the students I’ve met have been great to learn with and I wish I could have attended more. Sadly, my family is moving to Oklahoma to be closer to my wife’s family. One of the main things I will miss is learning from Junji-San and the rest of the Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai family. The good news is I’m beginning to incorporate meditation into most of my living moments, and hopefully am now getting one step closer to being a Jedi. Thank you Junji-san, I greatly appreciate your teachings.
~Jake L.
This traditional sword class is magnificent! Not only is the class exciting and action packed, but also meditative and calming. The way you decide to experience it is up to you, and the kind teacher will adjust, making the perfect learning experience for you. Join now to learn different strategies to use while in combat, “find stillness in the air,” “tighten your buttocks,” and many more traditional Japanese ways with the sword.
~Emerson L.
At first glance I didn’t know what kenjutsu was but when I went to the class I learned about a side of Japanese culture I thought I would never be able to experience! Kenjutsu is a Japanese sword technique that involves how to defend and fight with a wooden sword, learning the basics and letting you really get a better idea of how to handle a sword. This class is hosted by Junji-San, a great teacher that teaches anyone who attends his class, teaching them all the how’s and why’s of the sword. I highly recommend this class if you are interested in this side of Japanese culture and maybe you can use it one day! I give the class a 5 out of 5 stars as the teacher is very kind and incredibly flexible with anything, also being very easy to access as you can simply ask or say anything over text! Come join the class!!
~Alexander P.
I've been going to Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai for a few months and it is a truly fun experience. The environment is amazing and all of the people you train with are super friendly! It isn't a competitive environment so you don't have to worry about catching up with others! The instructor, Matsumoto-san, is very patient when teaching and he is also very friendly! This martial art isn't too hard on the body so you can get your exercise with Kenjutsu and not worry about using your body too much. I came into this class knowing very little about the martial art but I was instantly captivated by all the movements and forms you learn. Truly, Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai is an unforgettable experience with friendly people, low exertion on the body, and satisfying movements in the forms and cuts you learn. A truly 10/10 class you have to experience for yourself!
~Joshua L.
~Dave M.
Having studied martial arts my entire life, I have developed a good sense of how well teachers are able to convey their knowledge and mastery of their art. I rate Sensei Matsumoto as the very best. His ability to communicate, his sense of pacing, and his humility are superb. For anyone interested in studying budo weapons through a series of clear and logical training progressions, I highly recommend Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai!
~Toby R. (托能)
I enjoy the class as it teaches me many valuable techniques, movements, and meditation. The whole atmosphere there is very friendly, polite, and welcoming. The instructor is very helpful and patient. He carefully guides everyone through the process by pointing out and correcting certain mistakes, while making sure that everyone understands everything he is teaching in each class. He is also always open to any questions that you might have. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in martial arts.
~Alexander M.
いろいろな形や運用を習い、練習していくうちに少しずつ体になじんで身についていく体感が、たまらなく面白い。トレーナーの方は、それぞれのレベルに合わせて指導してくれるので、次にどう努力すればよいのかもわかりやすく、進歩が感じられる。歳や性別、体の柔軟さなどの個性に合わせて自分なりの技を磨けるのが、この会の魅力だと思う。
~Hiroshi F.
I have taken a few classes of Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoy it. It's my first time learning a martial art, and my previous image of martial arts was that it's very rigid and strict, and takes a bit of courage to start. But the knowledgeable instructor here provide an open, welcoming atmosphere where everyone is respected, so I think anyone of any age or background would feel comfortable participating.
I never imagined that so much balance and concentration would be needed in wielding or drawing out a sword. Just like the title, both the mind and body become activated. Half of the class is improving the balance and coordination of the body, and the other half is preparing the mental state. You become more aware of your body and your surroundings. This is almost like active meditation--I feel peaceful after every lesson. The movements are not strenuous, so it's great for people who want to experience the essence of martial arts with low to moderate physical exertion.
~Lisa O.
I highly recommend this class. Instructor is excellent. The best class I have ever taken.
~Mika. Y.
もう五十余年も前の話ですが、僕は中学の柔道部の稽古中、近くで稽古する剣道部の連中がとても勇ましく、袴姿を羨ましく思ったものです。幼少の病の後遺症で左手の不自由な僕のMind-Body Kenjutsu-Iaiへの参加は、丹下左膳の再来ではありませんが、片腕剣士にチャンスを与えてくれる大らかな雰囲気と、剣士達やインストラクターがファースト・ネームで呼び合うプレッシャーレスな仲間達の集まりみたいな所でもあります。 でも僕にとって、これはやはり一つのチャレンジには違いありません。免許皆伝なるか、破門されるか、これからが見所です！
~Shige K.
何の予備知識も無く始めた剣術居合ですが、型を覚えて実戦をすると言うだけでなく、宇宙、地球と繋がり全ての気配を感じて動くと言う基本概念を知り、日本の伝統、武道の奥深さに感激しています。インストラクターはとても謙虚で忍耐強く、何度でも丁寧に教えてくれるので、初心者でもクラスの居心地は良いです。従来の武道の堅苦しさが無いので、気軽に続ける事が出来そうです。又、知らないうちに結構な運動量になっているので、良いエクササイズになっています。瞑想も含めたこのクラスは心身共に良い効果があると思います。
I started this class without any knowledge about Kenjutsu-Iai, but I was surprised to learn that the basic principle of Japanese tradition and martial art is to first connect with the universe and the earth and to be aware of everything around you before beginning movements. The instructors are so humble and patient. They take the time to teach me until I’ve mastered the form, so I never feel like I’m being left behind. Because this class is less rigid in structure compared to most traditional classes, I feel that I can continue taking classes for a long time. You learn to be in a state of meditation, but you also work out more than you realize, so this class is good for both mind and body.
~Mayumi O.
Hello, my name is Erik and I'm currently training with Matsumoto-San. His Kenjutsu, Iaido class offers spiritual enlightenment and Swordsmanship mastered from Japanese martial arts. I've practiced Karate for a couple of years in the past. Learning Kata/Fighting Forms from masters is an opportunity of a lifetime. And I'm excited to learn how to properly draw and wield the Katana Sword. The ultimate weapon. 頑張りましょう。 エリーク
~Erik F.
映画やテレビドラマでしか見たことが無い剣術を、自分が体験する事に快感を覚えます。新しい型を覚える度に、殺陣の事がおぼろげながらわかる気がします。静と動がある稽古を毎週楽しみにしています。
It is very exciting to actually experience Kenjutsu-Iai, which I have only seen in TVs and movies before. Each time I learn a new form, I can better relate to sword-fighting choreographs used in the movies. Each week, I look forward to attending classes with a perfect balance of physical training and meditative training.
~Mike O.
I am so happy that I found Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai! It has been exactly what I needed. The class’s meditative aspect has helped me find my center even in the chaos of life during COVID, all while learning both practical sword fighting skills and the art of Iaido. Importantly, Junji is the best kind of teacher. He is patient and kind with a calming demeanor, provides clear instruction, and is always happy to answer questions. I’ve taken the group class and am now taking private lessons and can’t recommend it enough.
~Brendan H.
格闘技は中学からボクシングを習っていました。その後空手、中国拳法などを習いました。剣に興味があり、今回参加させてもらいました。若いときは力と思っていましたが、力は年々衰えます。居合道および剣術は年を取ってからでもまだまだ伸びることが出来ると実感しています。生涯現役を目指してこれからも稽古に精進していきたいと思います。
I studied boxing when I was in junior high school. Then practiced Karate and Chinese Kung Fu, later. I joined this class, for I have had an interest in swordsmanship for a while. When I was younger, I thought physical strength was one of the most important quality to have in martial arts, however as I got older, I realized it is not so. Kenjutsu and Iaido are one of the few martial arts in which you can improve markedly even as you age; and I can definitely feel it. I will enjoy, train, and strive in these arts as my life-long passion.
~TJ B.
The Mind-Body Kenjustsu-Iai really incorporates both the mental and physical aspects in the training. To me, it seems somewhat like yoga, for the class flows at a rather comfortable pace and by the end of it, you are relaxed and freed of any stiffness. I am still in junior high, but all the online learning and use of electronics keeping me seated all day have made my body stiff. I think the Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai provides a fun and extraordinary way of getting moderate fitness & meditation into the day. Before, I never imagined having a martial art as one of my hobbies!
~Emma M.
I like my Iaido class because my teacher and my assistant are very nice and helpful. Also, Kenjutsu-Iaido is a very good exercise and fun!
~Elen T.
全くの初心者からスタートし、当クラスに通わせていただき数ヶ月経ちました。インストラクターの方はとても丁寧にわかりやすく教えてくださり、一つ一つ理解し稽古に励むことができます。稽古も安全で楽しく、生徒さんたちもとても良い方達ばかりです。競争や勝敗に拘らない、自分磨き、己に克つ精神を養えて健康管理もできる。居合道はとても素晴らしいと思います。初心者の方に特にお勧めです。
Started as a complete beginner, I have been training for several months by now. The instructor gives very easy to grasp, detailed guidance, so I am able to train with logical understanding of each exercise and move. The overall atmosphere is very fun and safe. Other students are all wonderful people and I don't feel any competitiveness stress from anyone. I think Kenjutsu-Iaido is a wonderful art that helps me improve my physical health, as well as mental aspects of self-polishing and self-control. I highly recommend this art, especially to beginners.
~Tommy T.
I’ve been going to Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai for a couple months now. Everyone is so nice and Matsumoto-San is very patient and he will go over all of the motions with you until you get it right. So far I’ve learned forms, guards, how to handle my sword, and more. I’ve also learned good meditation techniques! It’s a lot of fun, and I’ve even recommended my brother come to classes with me. I first decided to try this class because I’ve always been interested in taking martial arts, and Japanese sword fighting in particular because of the anime I’ve watched, and my interest in Japanese culture. This class is traditional, fun, and relaxing. I am overall satisfied with my experience here and have been encouraged to try more martial arts. Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai has become my first stepping stone into martial arts as I plan to take many more in the future!
~Morgan D.
「居合」という言葉の意味すらほぼ知識がない状態で参加しましたが、即座に虜になりました。松本先生のきめ細やかで、こころのこもったご指導や、先生の居合そのものに対する敬意、そしてその道の奥深さを最初の１時間程で目の当たりにしました。自分が木刀を持ち、稽古をする事に喜びを感じる事に頭がついて行かない程、居合道の魅力に不思議なご縁すら感じます。足腰にかなりの力を求められる武道ならではの運動にもなりますし、この御時世ですが、地に足が着いた精神的な安らぎも稽古を通して得られる事等心から感謝しています。
I had little to no knowledge regarding 'Iai' or 'Iai-do' prior to taking Matsumoto Sensei's class, but I was immediately charmed by it. This is mostly due to Matsumoto sensei's attentive and embracing method of teaching, and his love and respect for the practice which I felt at home with. I felt the complex and wondrous practice of Iai-do immediately in the first hour or so of the first class I took. I had never imagined that I would be holding a wooden sword and feeling content by practicing swordsmanship. I feel very lucky and honored to have met Matsumoto sensei and his practice, who has introduced me to the way of Iai-do. The practice is physically challenging at times, which is a great way to exercise, and it also gives me a sense of serenity and a sense of calm, which I am grateful for.
~Chika S.
I first met Junji-San (instructor) while out with my family and he was with his family at the same park. Our kids started to play together and we started a conversation. He was very kind and open to meeting talking. As we spoke the subject came up about martial arts. I have studied karate for the most part and when Junji said he was teaching Kenjutsu I was ecstatic to find out he was teaching Kenjutsu. I have always wanted to study Kenjutsu. I have been studying karate for some time now and I was having trouble finding a place to continue my study and involve my kids as well. We just moved in from out of state and covid19 made things very difficult to find anyone to work with. I still love Karate and study on my own, but an instructor is irreplaceable. Junji-San is teaching in parks with the proper covid 19 protections. And within a couple weeks my boys and I were at our first lesson and truly enjoyed it. Junji is a skilled martial artist and a pleasure to watch perform the movements and more importantly he is a great teacher. If you have ever wanted to learned Kenjutsu then Junji is a great instructor to learn from. He is open to private lessons and to working with kids. I believe that as I have moved around that the people make the area what it is more than anything else Junji has made California a better place for me and my family. I have moved many times and had the pleasure to make some great people especially in the martial arts world. Junji has been a blessing to move beyond the barriers of covid19 and find some peace.
~Scott C.
全くの初心者で剣術を習い始めて数ヶ月になります。剣の動きやテクニックなど体を動かすだけでなく、精神を集中したり、心を空にして瞑想の体勢になるなど、精神的な訓練にもなっています。剣術を始めてからサムライの時代劇や「鬼滅の刃」などのアニメの面白さも倍増しました！先生は習う人に合わせてわかりやすく教えて下さるので、安心して稽古に参加することができます。青空の下、稽古仲間と木刀を振る時間を毎週楽しみにしています。
It has been a few months since I started taking kenjutsu as a beginner. What I have been learning through the training is not just physical such as sword techniques and movements, but also mental such as mental concentration, emptying the mind, and assuming meditation posture. Since I started training kenjutsu, I enjoy Samurai movies and animations such as "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" exceedingly more! Instructor teaches the class, closely tailoring to each student's level and needs, so you can participate the class without any concerns. Every week, I truly look forward to spending time wielding wooden swords with fellow students under blue sky.
~Erika N.
"As a big fan of both anime and video games, I decided to take up Kenjutsu-Iai after wanting to take up a martial art that seemed cool and appealed the most to my interests. After practicing for almost 5 months now, I've learned a lot of forms and techniques that just feel really cool to execute and even act as a great addition to my current workout regimen during the week. Matsumoto-san has been a fantastic instructor that's super encouraging of his student's motivations to learn the way of the sword!"
~Kary Q.
As a person who grew up enamored with the original Star Wars trilogy, I’ve always had a (not-so-secret) desire to be a Jedi. Over the years I’ve studied a number of martial arts: Tae Kwon Do, Wrestling, Jujutsu and Kung Fu. Kung Fu introduced me to adding deep meditative techniques along with the martial fighting techniques, but they are separated while practicing (at least at the levels I attained). Studying Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai with Junji-San I’ve learned to blend meditation and fighting together during the practice. His instruction is both gentle and firm. He gives minor corrections where necessary and doesn’t allow me to build “bad” muscle memory for specific techniques I may have practiced improperly. Each lesson I walk away with one or two more things to work on and feel I progress at each lesson. Because of my schedule I’ve mostly been taking private lessons, but I have absolutely enjoyed the handful of group lessons I could make it to. The rest of the students I’ve met have been great to learn with and I wish I could have attended more. Sadly, my family is moving to Oklahoma to be closer to my wife’s family. One of the main things I will miss is learning from Junji-San and the rest of the Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai family. The good news is I’m beginning to incorporate meditation into most of my living moments, and hopefully am now getting one step closer to being a Jedi. Thank you Junji-san, I greatly appreciate your teachings.
~Jake L.
This traditional sword class is magnificent! Not only is the class exciting and action packed, but also meditative and calming. The way you decide to experience it is up to you, and the kind teacher will adjust, making the perfect learning experience for you. Join now to learn different strategies to use while in combat, “find stillness in the air,” “tighten your buttocks,” and many more traditional Japanese ways with the sword.
~Emerson L.
At first glance I didn’t know what kenjutsu was but when I went to the class I learned about a side of Japanese culture I thought I would never be able to experience! Kenjutsu is a Japanese sword technique that involves how to defend and fight with a wooden sword, learning the basics and letting you really get a better idea of how to handle a sword. This class is hosted by Junji-San, a great teacher that teaches anyone who attends his class, teaching them all the how’s and why’s of the sword. I highly recommend this class if you are interested in this side of Japanese culture and maybe you can use it one day! I give the class a 5 out of 5 stars as the teacher is very kind and incredibly flexible with anything, also being very easy to access as you can simply ask or say anything over text! Come join the class!!
~Alexander P.
I've been going to Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai for a few months and it is a truly fun experience. The environment is amazing and all of the people you train with are super friendly! It isn't a competitive environment so you don't have to worry about catching up with others! The instructor, Matsumoto-san, is very patient when teaching and he is also very friendly! This martial art isn't too hard on the body so you can get your exercise with Kenjutsu and not worry about using your body too much. I came into this class knowing very little about the martial art but I was instantly captivated by all the movements and forms you learn. Truly, Mind-Body Kenjutsu-Iai is an unforgettable experience with friendly people, low exertion on the body, and satisfying movements in the forms and cuts you learn. A truly 10/10 class you have to experience for yourself!
~Joshua L.