[CULTDIAMONDS]

A custom with many clubs and federations, the final keiko of the year and first keiko of the new year, toshi-goshi and shin-nen keiko respectively, are treated as special occasions.

In my region, local federations typically have a joint toshi-goshi-shin-nen-keiko from late night December 31st, with a New Year salutation from the federation president at Midnight, followed by a shin-nen keiko for another hour or so.

A famous shin-nen keiko is conducted at Tokyo University’s Shichitokudou Dojo on January 2nd. This keiko was started over 20 years ago by Tokyo and Kokugakuin University students, and now attracts kendo enthusiasts from all over the Kanto region. The keiko is free and everyone is welcome. It starts at 10:30 and goes until about Noon. There is little on-campus parking and registration with campus security is necessary, but there are many JR and Tokyo Metro stations in walking distance.

See maps here: http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/campusmap/map01_02_j.html, and http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/campusmap/cam01_00_09_j.html

In early January, many clubs, federations, and school teams conduct their kan-geiko, or special cold weather keiko. These are typically done early in the morning, the coldest hours of the day, and continue to just after sunrise. Duration ranges from a few days to a few weeks. Often, attendance is recorded, with special mention being made for members who attend all practices.

Just some of the nice customs of kendo culture. Wishing everyone a good year-end and hope you’ll have enjoyable and meaningful kendo study in the New Year.

Michael