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Kendo vs Kenjutsu: differences explained

Kendo: weapons: bamboo sword. Kenjutsu: weapons: sword (bokken or blunt blade). For self-defence, both are similar. Best advice: try one class of each.

KendoKenjutsu
Origin and founderJapan · from samurai swordsmanship; modern form with shinai and armour (18th c.)Japan · classical schools (koryu) since the 15th–16th centuries
TypeWeapons: bamboo swordWeapons: sword (bokken or blunt blade)
UniformKeikogi, hakama and armour (bogu)Keikogi and hakama
Belt / ranking systemKyu and dan, no coloured beltsTraditional licences (menkyo), not belts
Typical techniquesStrikes to head, wrists and torso, and throat thrust, with kiaiPaired kata with bokken, cuts, distance and timing
Sport / competitionYes: two valid points (ippon)No
Self-defence focusLow (traditional art / sport)Low (traditional art / sport)
Olympic statusNoNo
Where to train📍 Kendo clubs📍 Kenjutsu clubs

Summary written by Wabukan; rules and grading vary by federation and school.

Sources: Wikipedia — Kendo · Wikipedia — Kenjutsu · olympics.com

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