training in japan

[tranquilaki]

hey all, i'm very much interested in sword training in japan. i was wondering if anyone has any information related to the following

1. would it be possible if i have little previous training?
2. would it be possible to work for the dojo in exchange for room/board?
3. are visas attainable for such things?

any information would be appreciated, thanks

[riku]

tranquilaki-
Welcome to Budoseek! Sorry that I can't help you with your question, but I hope you have good time here. Please remember that forum rules obliges that everyone have to sign all posts with real, full name (first and last), or have nic -handle- that includes both first and last name.

Once more, welcome.

Riku Ylönen

[njsamurai]

don't know that information off hand - might be able to find out. do you currently practice somewhere?

[Ellis Amdur]

Things may have changed somewhat since my day. But:

1. Yes, there are many schools which accept neophytes to the martial arts. I would suggest you read Donn Draeger's books, Karl Friday's, Legacies of the Sword, as well as the three part set edited by Diane and Meik Skoss if you haven't. You need to know a little more about the territory. If you haven't actually seen real Japanese sword, I'd suggest going on to a website such at Peter Boylan's, and buying some of the videos/dvd's put out by the Nippon Budokan, which show varfious ryu.
2. I've never heard of a dojo that would allow you to work, etc., for room/board. Almost all koryu are non-commercial, and non-full time. They meet either in a dojo or more often in a local gymnasium several times a week. If you are really serious, most of your training will be on your own.
3. I don't know how it's designated, but there used to be a "cultural studies" visa. In my day, you could work a limited number of hours. I'm sure it's all different now, BUT I believe that it still is the fact that you have to enter a dojo, get sponsorship by the dojo AND get a personal sponsor for your visa. Many people go to Japan on a tourist visa, travel and find a dojo, make a committment, and then leave - get the cultural visa return and go from there. Another alternative is to secure employment - and then, secure, find a dojo to train.

Ellis Amdur

[DragonMind]

NJSAMURAI,

Same deal, please include your real first and last name in all posts. Go to USER CP and edit your signature to include it automatically.