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NAGINATA
Naginata is a traditional Japanese martial
art and modern day sport popular in Japan.
It is practiced with a halberd, essentially
a short Japanese sword mounted on the end
of a 6’ oak staff.
The Naginata was used by soldiers as a
weapon during early Japanese periods (600-1500).
At that time, the Naginata because of its
length, was the most advantageous weapon
being used by soldiers. But in the Oda,
Toyotomi periods (1500), use of the Yari
(spear) became very popular and widespread.
Due to this and the introduction of firearms,
the methods of battle, and hence the weapons
used, started to change.
The Edo period (1603-1867) was a relatively
peaceful period in Japanese history. As
men trained Kenjutsu (sword techniques),
women trained in Naginata as self-defense.
Persistently training in Naginata, and adhering
to the etiquette of practice was a way of
cultivating the character. Thus Naginata
became a way for women of Samurai families
to study morals, honour and so on. Naginatas
were also used as ornaments for the entrances
of homes of high ranking Samurai and as
an ornament in Daimyos’ processions,
and has become a decoration customarily
used in wedding ceremonies. In Naginata,
the various battle technique aspects faded
as the training of spirit, body, and mind
became the main objective.
At the beginning of the Showa period (1923
– 1989), Naginata was introduced to
public schools as part of the curriculum
for female students. The various styles
of Naginata were combined to form an appropriate
“School Naginata” for educational
purposes. This “School Naginata”
had very strong contest aspects.
The All Japan Naginata Federation was formed
in 1955. New forms were introduced; kata
competitions and matches between those who
practice Naginata were also started. In
1990, the International Naginata Federation
was formed. In 2003, the Canadian Naginata
Federation was formed and admitted to the
International Naginata Federation. Nowadays
not only women but also men of all ages
are practicing Naginata.
Sandra Jorgenson (1st dan), an instructor
with the JCCC in Iaido and a member of the
Canadian Naginata Federation, leads an informal
study group to promote the growth of Naginata
in Canada. The class is also assisted by
Enore Gardonio (1st dan) who is also an
assistant instructor with the JCCC in Iaido.
A small supply of naginata are available
for beginners.
| Day |
Time |
Age |
Level |
| Sun |
3:30-5:00pm |
ALL |
General |
New Naginata students accepted only
on the first Sunday of the month. |
