Traditional forms of combat are alive and well in this castle town! The 11th Matsumoto Amateur Sports Association is hosting their Martial Arts Festival on Sunday, December 10, 2017. This interactive event exhibits 12 martial art styles including less seen forms of combat such as bayonet fencing and spear fighting. In addition to seeing demonstrations of all 12 styles, participatory classes will allow you to learn some of the techniques.

The following 12 forms of martial arts will be offered: Kendo (Japanese fencing, Judo, Kyudo (Japanese archery), Karate, Aikido, Jukendo (bayonet fencing), Sumo, Naginata (polearm fighting), Shorinji Kempo (Shaolin Kung fu), Nippon Kempo, Taekwondo, and Kobudo (traditional Japanese weaponry)

Date & Time: Dec. 10, 2017 (Sun), 9:00–16:00

Location: Matsumoto City Sogo Taiikukan (5–1 Misuzu, Matsumoto City 390-0801)

Access Via Public Transportation: The nearest bus stop is Sogo Taiikukan Mae.
Take the 120 bus–Yokoda Shindai Loop Line, the 130 bus–Shindai Yokoda Loop Line, or the 32 bus–Asama Line (via Shinshu University).

Program: Public exhibition and participatory classes for each style

9:30–11:50  Open Practice & Participatory Classes

13:00–16:00  Public Exhibition

(Times are subject to change.)

*You can also bookmark the event on our Facebook events page.