Jūkendō (銃剣道?) is the Japanese martial art of bayonet fighting,[1][2][3][4] and has been likened to kendo (but with bayonets instead of swords).[5] Jukendo techniques are based on sojutsu (spear fighting)[6] or bayonet techniques from the 17th century, when firearms were introduced to Japan.[7]
During the Meiji period, Japanese bayonet fighting techniques were consolidated into a system named jukenjutsu,[7] and taught at the Toyama military academy in Tokyo.[7] Morihei Ueshiba, founder of aikido, trained in jukenjutsu and incorporated some of that art into his own art.[8] Following World War II, the practice of jukenjutsu was banned by the Allies, but it later returned in the modern form of jukendo.[7] The Japan Amateur Jukendo Federation was established in 1952.[9] The All Japan Jukendo Federation was established in April 1956.[10]
Modern jūkendō uses a mokujū, a wooden replica of a rifle with an attached and blunted bayonet at the end, in place of an actual rifle.[5] The art is practised by both Japanese military personnel and civilians.[7] Training incorporates kata (patterns), two-person drills, and competitive matches using mokujū and protective armor.[7] The three main target areas are the heart, throat, and lower left side of the opponent.[7]
During the Meiji period, Japanese bayonet fighting techniques were consolidated into a system named jukenjutsu,[7] and taught at the Toyama military academy in Tokyo.[7] Morihei Ueshiba, founder of aikido, trained in jukenjutsu and incorporated some of that art into his own art.[8] Following World War II, the practice of jukenjutsu was banned by the Allies, but it later returned in the modern form of jukendo.[7] The Japan Amateur Jukendo Federation was established in 1952.[9] The All Japan Jukendo Federation was established in April 1956.[10]
Modern jūkendō uses a mokujū, a wooden replica of a rifle with an attached and blunted bayonet at the end, in place of an actual rifle.[5] The art is practised by both Japanese military personnel and civilians.[7] Training incorporates kata (patterns), two-person drills, and competitive matches using mokujū and protective armor.[7] The three main target areas are the heart, throat, and lower left side of the opponent.[7]
