Day 5 - The Botoku Sai

We had to be up at 05:30, breakfast at 0600, and in the Botokuden by 7:30 as we had to go to the Heian shrine for a blessing.

Interesting but baffling - lots of Japanese. The senior members of the DNBK then performed Kendo Kata which was awesome.

We then went back to the Budo centre for the Kendo competition.

Alex vs Marta -> Alex

Luke vs Andy -> Andy

Nick vs Nigel -> Nigel

James vs Steve -> James

Alex beat Andy, and James beat Nigel.

In the final in the Botukoden Alex beat James to win the tournament. The top four people also received trophies and a certificate. 

Fujii fought and get to the final but was knocked out.

After the fighting was over we were invited to fight 6th and 7th Dan Kendoka whilst being watched for our grades. This was the highlight of the day for me. They were brilliant, and taught me new things. I fought them all. Fantastic.

The afternoon was all about the Japanese Honbu showing their skills. It ran for 3.5 hours. Rather a long time for your legs when kneeling, but the skills were very varied. Lots of sword work. Fighting with pikes, and even with the tools from a paddy field. All very very sharp.... great afternoon. The wrap up was also pretty special. Great place the Butokuden.

The evening meal was great food and minimal booze.