劍道人

This article is for the purpose of those who are unfamiliar with Kendo.

There are several ways and information by which one can get acquainted with the sport right at the beginning.

In case you are not familiar with the game rules:

1. You can ask the Kendo enthusiast beside you, he/she can explain the rules.

2. Watch when the referee raises the flag.

3. Observe the number of players as well as the sequence of the game.

4. Observe the planning approach of the match arena.

5. Observe competition time and how it is kept.

6. Observe the age, gender, and profile of the players (students/public figure/rank) and how they are grouped in the competition.

7. Analyze why the referee does not raise the flag and declare a score especially when you think that the target was hit.

   During this time, you can politely ask your Kendo seatmate for his opinion.

   You will certainly learn many things about Kendo when you have the initiative to ask about your observations during the game.

8. Observe how the players line up, dress up, warm up, and prepare for the match.

9. Observe the shout and posture of the player when striking (frame/posture)

10. Observe what qualifies for an illegal point deduction.

11. Observe how players advance and retreat, as well as where the referee positions himself during the match.

12.Apply all your senses to experience the Kendo match.

By using these observation methods, one can slowly piece together the rules of competition. Later on, if you are still very much interested, the internet is a good source of finding several Kendo rules. After reading a page or two, you can begin to have a general idea.
Lastly, you are reminded to observe the following rules during the match even though you do not completely know Kendo. 

1. If the match arena is found on the 1^st floor and the bleachers for spectators are on the 2^nd floor, you must proceed to the auditorium. Non-authorized personnel are not allowed to roam around the match arena.

2. If you find the competition a brilliant match, the Kendo way of cheering is to quietly applaud. Please do not shout, curse, or criticize the players and the referees.

3. Please observe cleanliness. Many players come in bare-footed, therefore littering on the floor may cause them injury.

4. When taking photos, please make sure that the camera flash does not distract the players. It is best to shoot without using the camera flash.

5. Please turn off your cellular phones or switch them to silent mode. Should you need to use your cellular phone, please keep your voice down.

6. Maintain a cheerful atmosphere and preserve the solemnity of the competition.

Taiwan has no live radio or TV broadcast of Kendo matches. Kendo enthusiasts can watch them through NHK or DVDs.

Interest in Kendo may be further enhanced through the help of dedicated sports anchors.  It is similar to watching American baseball whereby the presence of an expert explaining the details of the game makes it easier for people to understand.
That day is worth looking forward to.
 

Translator > Michael