Senbu
Senbu is the art of protection through the use of a traditional Japanese fan. In ancient times, Japanese Samurai carried their fan - usually tucked in their obi - along with their swords.
For the Japanese, a folding fan was an everyday practical item. No one wanted to be seen without a fan. Fans were used in festivals, religious ceremonies, dance performances and tea ceremonies. For the Samurai, just as the study of swordsmanship was paramount, having a folding fan in their possession was a must at all times as the use of the fan was a part of proper etiquette. When visiting others, Samurai had to remove their swords upon entering a home.
As with this example, a Samurai might find himself without a sword, but they were rarely without a fan. In addition to knowledge of proper etiquette, the fan provided another means of protection. So in many ways, the everyday, seemingly peaceful fan was considered very valuable.
To help keep the tradition of fan as a protection weapon alive, fan forms and protection techniques are taught through small group and private lessons with Doshu Shintaku.
Thursday class:
Kensington, Maryland Dojo
11:00 am