During Japan's feudal period, the teaching of the sword was called Kenjutsu, or the art of the sword. Training in Kenjutsu was done with a real sword. It was dangerous, leaving many students wounded, maimed, or accidentally killed.

The great masters of the Edo period (1603-1867) have been credited with the initial designs to protect students. These designs included protective practice armor (Bogu), a wooden sword (Bokken or Bokuto), and the bamboo sword (Shinai). Aided by the protection, students began to make considerable progress in their training. They could concentrate on their striking without fear of wounding someone or being wounded. The new advances required new methods for teaching and the art of the sword became the Way of the sword or Kendo.

The next major historical event came around 1870 with the end of feudalism in Japan and the legal protections of the samurai class. Unemployed, samurai began traveling the country putting on sword fighting demonstrations for the general public. So aroused by the demonstrations, Japan passed a law in 1871 requiring Kendo to be taught in the public schools. In 1909, the first college Kendo federation was founded and in 1928, a national Kendo federation was formed.

Today, Kendo continues to draw millions of participants in Japan. It is played competitively on the national, collegiate, and high school level. Corporations, government organizations, and local communities sponsor Kendo teams and practices. Throughout the world, Kendo is becoming a popular martial sport with Kendo federations existing in most countries.

The Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation (PNKF) was formed to promote and provide training opportunities in Kendo. There are member clubs located in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. We sponsor monthly interclub practices, special training clinics, international exchange programs, rank promotion boards, and the PNKF annual tournament. Through our association with the IKF and AUSKF, we offer an opportunity to become a member of the United States National Team and participate in the World Kendo Championships.

The strength of the PNKF lies with its members. Our members come from diverse backgrounds and have exciting outlooks on life. These members have committed themselves to their training and this commitment includes assisting you in the development of your Kendo. While each club is an independent organization, your membership in the PNKF will allow you to practice at any PNKF affiliated club.