Kendo scoring is a subjective system in which judges decide whether a strike fulfils the ideal of ki-ken-tai no icchi — the unity of spirit, sword and body. A valid strike must combine correct timing, proper form, a vigorous kiai and full commitment of body and mind. The sport uses a three-person-referee system (sanshinsei): a strike is awarded only if at least two referees agree.
Complaints about inconsistent decisions are frequent. Kendo Mirai Kenkyujo pointed out that slow-motion replay sometimes shows awarded strikes did not hit target areas, and social media posts claim senior referees or the names of top schools can sway calls. Historically, a 1929 debate between Sasaburou Takano and Kengo Tominaga warned that seniority could undermine fair judging, and the ranking system (1–8 Dan) creates strong seniority among practitioners and referees.
There is active debate over technology. Supporters propose video replay and sensor-based scoring, as used in judo and taekwondo, to add objective evidence. Opponents argue such tools could weaken kendo’s spiritual and educational aims. Sadayuki Mimori of the All Japan Kendo Federation emphasised that kendo’s purpose is spiritual cultivation and learning from defeat, even when misjudgment occurs. Many in the community call for stronger fundamentals, clearer judging standards, public education and reform of the judgment system before wide adoption of technology.
- Key strike elements: timing, kiai, footwork
- Three referees must agree
- Calls for clearer rules and training
Difficult words
- subjective — based on personal opinion or feeling
- unity — state of being joined or acting together
- kiai — a loud shout used in martial arts
- seniority — longer service or higher rank than others
- replay — video shown again to review an event
- sensor-based — using sensors to detect and measure events
- spiritual — related to the mind, soul, or moral growth
- fundamental — basic idea or principle of somethingfundamentals
- misjudgment — an incorrect decision or judgment by judges
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Discussion questions
- Do you think video replay and sensor-based scoring should be adopted in kendo? Explain your reasons.
- How could clearer judging standards and public education reduce complaints about inconsistent decisions? Give examples.
- What problems can seniority and the ranking system create for fair judging, and how might the community address them?
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