Jōdō Groningen

Jōdō Groningen is a volunteer association for people interested in Shintō Musō-ryū, a traditional Japanese martial art practiced in small groups around the world. The school dates back to the early seventeenth century and centers on jōdō, or “the way of the staff”: practitioners use a 128-centimeter wooden staff in paired forms against a wooden-sword partner. Training develops technique alongside awareness, composure, timing and self-control. The school’s values include compassion, duty, courtesy, wisdom and sincerity, qualities members are encouraged to carry into daily life.

The association offers weekly classes on Monday evenings in Groningen and a monthly Saturday training session, with instruction led by an official Fédération européenne de Jōdō teacher and two assistants. Beginners are welcome to visit or try a class, and the club provides training weapons for newcomers. Practice takes place barefoot indoors, using a staff and wooden sword; advanced students also work with other traditional weapons. Jōdō Groningen participates in seminars and shared training events, connecting members with related groups in the Netherlands and across Europe.