Recommended Reading
It has often been said that you can’t learn martial arts from reading a book. This is true. However, reading books can give you valuable insight into techniques, history, philosophy and other important factors that can truly help to improve your understanding of kendo, and of all martial arts. On this page you will find my reviews of recommended reading for the interested martial artist.
Kenji Tokitsu
If you haven’t read A Book of Five Rings, then you’re already behind. This biography of Musashi is very informative, giving insight into the life of this most famous of samurai. The book contains a translation of A Book of Five Rings, as well as lesser known writings from Musashi. For the kendoka, the foot notes alone are worth the cost of this book.
Hiroshi Ozawa
Of all the beginner guides to kendo, this one is certainly the most well known and comprehensive. It has everything you need from how to fold and wear your hakama, to a complete description on Nihon Kendo Kata. Even if you’ve been doing kendo for years, this book should be in your collection.
Jinichi Tokeshi
I was very impressed when I first read this book, and I have been back to it many times. It goes where few kendo guides have and gives information on a wide range of topics including Jodan and Nito no Kamae! I highly recommend this book to all kendoka at any level.
Suzuki Shosan
If your study of the way of the sword had gotten you interested in zen, this is a great book for you. Suzuki was a 17th century samurai who gave up the sword once the Tokugawa Shogunate was established to live a life of zen study. His particular way of zen is deeply informed by swordsmanship, focussing on death, and fully committing to the present moment.
Frederick J. Lovret
This intriguing book seeks to plumb the depths of many of the more esoteric principles of the martial arts and make them useful in everyday life. It draws from a number of disciplines including kenjitsu, karate, aikido, and kendo. The principles and strategies discussed here are compelling, and not always mentioned at your dojo. I take some of it with a grain of salt.
Takuan Soho
A fantastic look at swordsmanship from a zen point of view! Soho was a Rinzai Zen master in 17th century Japan and is the subject of countless stories. His thoughts on swordsmanship are lessons still useful today. Of particular interest to jodan fighters is the section devoted to Fudo Myo-o and the Annals of the Sword Taia
Dave Lowry
Dave Lowry’s books are a joy to read and reflect heavily on his journey in swordsmanship as an american. In this book he seeks to explain some of the more esoteric practices and terminologies used in martial arts dojo. Enjoyable and informative.
John Stevens
If you think your sensei works you hard, you need to read about Tesshu. This will put kakari-geiko into a whole new light! This tough as nails samurai led an interesting and austere life. Much can be learned from his teachings. Don’t let your sensei get a hold of this book!
Yamamoto Tsunetomo
A must read for any would be samurai! It’s filled with great 18th century wisdom including why it’s important for men to have facial hair! You may have seen this book mentioned in the move “Ghost Dog” starring Forest Whitaker. I highly recommend it.
Andy Ferguson
If your study of martial arts has led you to an interest in Zen, or vice versa, this book is an excellent addition to your collection. It is filled with biographical and anecdotal information on the great zen masters from Bodhidharma to the founding of the main Japanese schools. I was particularly taken with the story of Linji’s enlightenment (known in japanese as Rinzai).
Peter Haskel
Still looking for your Buddha mind? Stop! You already have it. Bankei is one of those lovable zen masters from history who has a way of pointing out the obvious that you’ve never been able to see before. When it comes to zen books, this is one of my favorites.
