Kyudo Update by Chad Kamei Sensei
Kyudo at Chozen-ji is beginning to re-blossom through the hard work of the teachers and students. This year was busy with rebuilding the azuchi by replacing the dirt, sifting in sawdust, and leveling to the correct angles. Great care was also taken to refinish the Kyudo dojo floor and paint the interior.
Rebuilding the azuchi.
We now have seven students training, using the kyudo hassetsu as established by Kyudo sensei Jackson Morisawa. Kyudo classes continue to be held on Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings including 45 minutes of zazen.
This past February, Kushner Roshi from Daikozen-ji held a Kyudo intensive with our beginners and the teachers. We will be welcoming him and his students back this February to train alongside all our students.
On September 10th , 2022 we held our first Kyudo Day with Hawaii Kyudo Kai. Cleverly held on 9/10 (kyu-do), this event is a modern activity that groups around the world have been observing to celebrate the spirit of kyudo. We showcased our unique kata and demonstrated how our Zen training enhances both our kyudo and our lives.
To end the year, the Kyudo class will be doing a 108 arrow shoot. Similar to the Joya no Kane, our distinct celebration is to welcome the new year and to cleanse the 108 worldly desires to start the new year fresh and clean.
The Kyudo class is flourishing as we continue to train intensively and sincerely into 2023.
Dedicated Kyudo students being led by Lí.
Kyudo Day gathering with Hawaii Kyudo Kai.
Kyudo Day group shooting.