Archie's Archery Depot

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Japanese Kyudo: Zen in the Art of Archery

Kyudo, literally meaning "way of the bow", is far from being just an archery type sport. It is considered by Japanese to be a personal search for truth and perfection--and is often referred to as Tachi-zen (standing meditation.) 

I started practicing Kyudo several years ago, thinking that it would be something like the western archery sport I had practiced many years ago while I was in college. I could not have been more wrong.

Kyudo has been practiced in Japan virtually unchanged since the 12th century, and the only martial art in which there is no opponent. As such, it is the embodiment of fighting "the enemy within." In Kyudo, much as in life, consistently achieving goals is believed to be the result of doing the right things, the right way--and the ends do not justify the means. Luck can work, but not consistently.

Kyudo masters simply believe that hitting target is a result of righteousness of mind, adherence to correct form and caring for the equipment at one's disposal. Unlike archery, which emphasizes hitting a target, the supreme goal of Kyudo is for the practitioner to constantly reach for Shin (Truth,) Zen (Goodness) and Bi (Beauty.) In Kyudo, the primary goal is to achieve a state which Japanese call "San-Mi-Ittai" which is a state of perfect union and harmony of mind, body and the "universe at large." The Kyudo equipment (bow, arrow, the target, glove and ceremonial outerwear) are used solely as a representation of this "universe at large."

The practitioner is taught correct posture, calmness of mind, humility, respect and supreme care of his or her equipment, as a means of becoming a better being. Thus, it is believed that at the highest level, Kyudo masters do not need a bow and arrow since they themselves become the embodiment of all which Kyudo represents. This is not an exaggeration.  Many, including myself, can testify to feeling the commanding presence of a humble-looking Kyudo master.

If you like to learn more about Kyudo, one of the best books ever written in English on the

subject is a paperback called "Zen in the Art of Archery" by Eugene Herrigel. You can get it from Amazon for a few dollars. Kyudo is practiced by hundreds of thousands of practitioners all over the world. There is probably a dojo near you. If so, stop by for a visit. You will not be disappointed.

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Origami Style Urushi Lacquer Tray

Unique vermillion-red origami style urushi lacquer server for serving sweets and snacks. The emblem is that of a male and a female quail, representing a happy couple.

Ama-No-Uzume Full-sized Kagura Mask

One of a kind work of art, bound to add beauty and energy to any room or setting. Ama-No-Uzume is the Japanese goddess of mirth and dawn. She is known as The Great Persuader and The Terrible Female of Heaven.

Heart-faced Humanoid "Dogu" Terracotta

27 cm (10-5/8 inches) tall terracotta Dogu (2000-8000 BCE Jomon Period) figurine.  Original artifact was discovered in Gunma, Japan in 1941.  Privately owned and in storage in Tokyo National Museum.

About the Author

Armand Melikian is a Japan based staff writer for wawaza.com website and Miyazaki Whispers blog.

Archery question?

I am a COMPLETE *NEWBIE* in the sport of Archery. I have a 30-some year old hunting style bow and I have purchased my first set of arrows today.
Someone, please direct me to a website that shows and explains how to begin archery. - I need to find how to hold the bow, how to pull the string and how to position the arrow so it will fly straight.
I already have a release mechanism that pulls the string back and I have already hit the broad side of the barn in my back yard (so no "quips" are needed.)
Thanks.

Try this site to get the lay down about compound bows and how everything works according to draw length, poundage etc. http://www.huntersfriend.com/bowselection.htm

Here is a site with a step by step technique on shooting form.

http://www.skookumarchers.com/Archery%20Library/Basic%20Archery%20Shooting%20Technique.htm

And if you have a compound bow you need to be sure it is fit for you so you can enjoy success. any other questions you can email me. Hope you enjoy. I sure do.

Of food, fundraisers and fish
BANQUETS, COMMISSION meetings, paddlefish and public comment processes are loosely tied subjects, but I'm going to whip out a verbal shoehorn and see if I can get them all laced into this column.

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