Come and learn the discipline and beauty of Japanese Archery. This ancient art, called "Kyudo" is as much a form of meditation as it is a martial art. This form of archery is Heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism and Shintoism.

With Japanese archery, hitting the target is considered a means to an end. For this reason there are certain rituals involved with Kyudo, beyond what you would expect for a typical sport activity. Precise mental preparation and self discipline are extremely important.

Japanese archery can help you relax and improve the way you handle workday stress. It teaches you how to focus on a single goal and clears your mind for the task at hand. Kyudo is a form of archery that originated in Japan . It could be termed, "Spiritual Archery as it is heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism and Shintoism"

Kyudo can be considered the first and oldest of Japanese martial arts. Samurai warrior classes developed the practice for ceremonial and spiritual purposes as well as for warfare, as early as the 16th century. Very few courses are available outside of Japan. This makes this Canadian course so much more unique.

This Kyudo course, held in the beautiful Niagara countryside, welcomes begineers and experienced paracticioners alike. For beginners, all equipment will be provided and training mostly takes place in front of a "makiwara" (a large straw bale target used when learning the 8 stages of shooting).

The goal of this intensive seminar is to have beginners start with the handling and care of the equipment to practicing on the 28m range shooting to a 36cm target by the end of the weekend. Advanced students will enjoy the 28m range as well as practicing "Enteki", the 60m range to a 158cm target.

Seminar Date: Saturday July 19th - Sunday July 20th, 2008, 10am - 3 pm