About

You've entered high school and are heading to a club trial session! Details: The Kyudo (Archery) Club currently has 16 active members. Advisor: Mr. Hashimoto President: Ao Shiratori (3-6) Fees: Uniform (Kyudo-gi, Hakama, Obi, etc.) approx. 10,000–20,000 yen (Includes top, hakama, belt, and tabi socks. Chest guards are also purchased for girls.) Yugake (Deer-hide glove) approx. 15,000–30,000 yen Arrows (Set of 6) approx. 12,000–20,000 yen (Those using school equipment do not need to buy these. Only for those who wish to own their own.) Quiver (Duralumin, etc.) approx. 4,000–8,000 yen Location: North Building, Kyudo Room Tournaments: National tournaments twice a year (Summer, Winter) including individual matches. There is a gender-segregated national tournament once a year. The club also participates in regional and district tournaments. Regarding Regular Examinations ↓ There are three classifications (grading systems): "Kyu," "Dan," and "Shogo." Members take exams (assessments) to advance based on their skill and level of training. 1. Kyu The initial classification for beginners. Types: 5th Kyu to 1st Kyu (lower numbers are higher). Standard: High schoolers and general beginners aim to obtain 5th to 1st Kyu first. 2. Dan Positioned above Kyu, equivalent to a "black belt" in general martial arts. Types: 1st Dan (Shodan) to 10th Dan (lower numbers are higher). Standard: 1st Dan: A level where basic movements and the fundamentals of hitting the target are mastered. It is possible to obtain this during high school with diligent practice. 4th/5th Dan: Requires high skill and spiritual maturity, marking the first step toward becoming an instructor. 3. Shogo (Titles) The highest rankings. These are top-tier qualifications for instructors that can be challenged by those with 5th Dan or higher. Types: Renshi → Hanshi → Kyoshi (in ascending order). Standard: Not only skill, but also character, deep knowledge of Kyudo, and leadership abilities are strictly assessed.