Explore Budo – Martial Arts Lecture & Demonstration

On May 31, 2025, the Embassy of Japan in collaboration with Takahashi Dojo hosted "Explore Budo (Martial Arts Lecture and Demonstration)" at the Embassy’s auditorium. The event was held as part of Asian Heritage Month and was an opportunity to promote understanding of Japanese culture in Canada and deepen understanding and interest in spirituality through martial arts.
This video features a Budo lecture and demonstration by the following dojos based in Ottawa:

0:00 - 8:02 松濤館流空手/Shotokan Karate (only demonstration) – Saeki Dojo
8:03 - 9:28 Remarks
9:29 - 19:51 柔道/Judo – Takahashi Dojo
19:52 - 30:14 糸東流空手/Shitoryu Karate – Shitoryu Karate Ottawa
30:15 - 39:29 弓道/Kyudo – Ottawa Kyudo Association
39:30 - 50:37 剣道/Kendo – Tateyama Dojo
50:38 - 57:17 居合道/Iaido– Takahashi Dojo (Mr.Ed Chart)

The first half of the event began by showcasing the appeal of martial arts. Each dojo put in a lot of effort to explain the spirit and philosophy behind their respective martial arts in addition to the practical demonstrations, providing an opportunity for visitors to not only appreciate the beauty of the techniques, but also to deepen their understanding of the values behind them.
In the second half of the event, visitors were free to visit any booth of the martial art that interested them and had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of each martial art through asking questions and practical experience.

This event was attended by people of all ages, from children to adults, and had the participation of Paralympic judo athlete Mr. Tony Walby and Mr. Ed Chart, who practices iaido using only his strong right leg. It was an opportunity for anyone to experience the universal value of martial arts, that is, that anyone can improve themselves through martial arts and learn to respect others, making it a fitting way to conclude the final day of Asian Heritage Month.
We hope it serves as a helpful introduction to Japanese martial arts !