Kyudo: The Way of the Bow – Open to all
Open to all - a living tradition of contemplative archery.
We practice kyudo in the tradition of the Heki ryu Bishu Chikurin ha, following the lineage holders of the Shibata family.
In our practice, hitting the target is not the primary goal. Our practice tries to find the answer to the question of how you can hit the target with an open mind and heart, cutting ego. In this way, the target becomes a mirror of our physical, emotional and rational condition, making every single shot a personal and unique experience, and kyudo an everlasting path.
You will learn the Seven Coordinations (Shichido), which are a prescribed series of movements which lead to completing a shot. These are repeated over and over, as your practice deepens. Because the body-mind coordination required to learn Shichido is complex, you should expect to spend (at least) two days learning the form and the handling of equipment. After that you will be able to perform a shot on your own. Of course, there will be guidance and help present at all times.
People of all ages are able to practice Kyudo. Physical strength is not a factor. Children can begin from eight years of age on.
Thank you for indicating during the registration process if you have prior experience with Kyudo.
Equipment
All equipment will be provided. With the help of Oko kyudojo, Dechen Chöling has recently constructed an elegant “azuchi”, a traditional Japanese structure in which the targets are placed, and a new ‘shayo’, the shooting platform.
Clothing: Kyudo traditionally is practiced in ceremonial “gi”: a white kimono jacket and black hakama trousers or skirt. Students who do not have this are advised to practice in a white shirt, and black or dark-coloured trousers or (long) skirt.
Oko’s website: www.kyudo.org
Practical details
Arrival day (July 26, Sunday): You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6.30 pm. Introductory talk at 8 pm.
End of program (July 31, Friday): Closing circle and Banquet in the evening.
Departure day (August 1rst, Saturday): You may leave anytime (no programme). You’re welcome to stay for lunch.
This programme is taught in English. The program will be translated in French. Request for interpretation in other languages need to be made in advance and confirmed (please indicate your are requesting interpretation on the registration page).
Special Rate
For Zenko and Oko members, there is a reduction of 100 € on the regular programme price displayed below (reduction proportionally decreased for discounted options).
Programme price
| Regular | 420 € | |
|---|---|---|
| Patron | 528 € | Help support lower income participants |
| Early Bird | 357 € | Expires 28 June 2026 |
| Under 30 years of age | 210 € |
If you require financial assistance to attend this programme please contact [email protected].
Price information
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Total standard price | 817.32 € |
| Programme price (Early Bird) | 357.00 € |
| Full board: 6 nights (74 € per night - Shared 2-person room) * | 444.00 € |
| Room tax: 6 nights | 1.32 € |
| Dechen Chöling association’s annual fee ** | 15.00 € |
* Includes Shared 2-person room and all meals. Other accommodation options available during registration.
** Legal yearly obligation (calendar year) for every participant or visitor.
