NYBA EVENTS
Upcoming
NYBA events.
Please check our calendar for upcoming NYBA events as dates and times are subject to changes. If you have any questions please contact us…
MARCH KYUDO PRACTICE AT GARRISON INSTITUTE
Kyudo practice at Garrison Institute – Tokokyudojo
NYBA KYUDO – MAINTENANCE DAY
NYBA KYUDO will be having our annual dojo maintenance day where we clean and care for yumi, ya, kake, targets, nets, , stands, etc.
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
This is an advanced keiko (practice) for NYBA students who are NIDAN and above.
This practice is INVITE ONLY.
SENSEI CHARLES BOLEWARE – NJ BUDOKAI
We are happy to host former New York Budokai member Sensei Charles Boleware and head instructor of New Jersey Budokai (RSR 5th Dan/Renshi and Jun-Shidoin) as a special guest instructor.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
NYBA – 2026 SPRING IAIDO SHINSA 審査 (ONLINE)
NYBA will be hosting it’s SPRING ONLINE Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this April. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA – 2026 SPRING IAIDO SHINSA 審査
NYBA will be hosting it’s SPRING Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this April. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. APRIL 11th 4–6 PM (EST)
🌸 🌸 🌸
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. APRIL 11th 4–6 PM (EST) 🌸 🌸 🌸
Online exam will be held for NYBA remote members:
SAT. APRIL. 11th 4 – 6 PM
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
This is an advanced keiko (practice) for NYBA students who are NIDAN and above.
This practice is INVITE ONLY.
2026 – SPRING INTENSIVE WITH DON SYMANSKI SENSEI
Our friends at the TOKOKYUDOJO will be hosting a one-day seminar with lead instructor Don Symanski. Symanski Sensei began the study of Kyudo with Kanjuro Shibata XX Sensei in 1980. He instructs in the Hekiryu Bishu Chikurinha form of Kyudo. Don apprenticed in bow making with Shibata Sensei’s son, Nobuhiro Shibata (now Kanjuro Shibata XXI), in Kyoto. Since 1991, he has made yumi for Kyudo students and taught students the proper use of the yumi and Kyudo as a meditation path.
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Below are Don Symanski’s reflections on the topic.
Western students tend to want to show individualism in martial arts, in sports, and the arts in general. Sensei’s challenge was how to work with this cultural individualism. He worked to open the training toward the formalities and precision of the form with respect and appreciation. He stressed putting aside individual likes and dislikes to be willing to learn the fundamentals and go beyond imitation – to absorb and appreciate kyudo’s essence as part of the practice.
During the program we will review the principles of the form and dojo atmosphere that Shibata Sensei XX put forth over the years to establish his core message of openness, respect, and a sense of heart as integral to kyudo practice.
We will explore how manners and decorum influence the dojo atmosphere. We’ll look at alternative movements of the form according to a person’s body type and explore where practitioners cling to beginner habits and personal “likes and dislikes.”
I look forward to practicing together, furthering the essence of kyudo, and recognizing what it brings out in our character.
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An informal practice will be held Wednesday afternoon; the program will begin after dinner Wednesday, May 6.
We will offer a review of the Seven Coordinations on Thursday morning for anyone who has not practiced for a while.
The program will conclude at 2:30 pm on Sunday, May 10.
We hope to offer one day First Shot to a limited number of people on Saturday, May 9. Please tell anyone you think might be interested about this opportunity.
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The Garrison Institute, 50 miles north of New York City, is a former Capuchin monastery overlooking the Hudson River. It is a rich place to practice; the food is typically excellent. There is a warm, dry indoor practice area as well as an outdoor eight-person platform and a private shooting area.
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Opens March 15 and closes April 25th
The program is open to everyone who has taken First Shot.
Registration will be a two-part process:
Step 1: $160 Toko program fee.
Step 2: Garrison Institute fee (facilities, food, & housing)
Single $760limited availability
Double $660
Dorm $600 limited availability
Single rooms go quickly, so register early if you want one. Registration opens March 15 on our website - Spring 2026.
REGISTER ONLINE WITH TOKO KYUDODOJO
Step 1 -> Submit the Registration Form
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MAKE THE TWO PAYMENTS BELOW:
Step 2 -> Payment part 1: Program Fee: Go to the Toko website’s Donate page, and follow the PayPal options for the $160 program fee.
Cancellations before April 24th will be refunded except for a $65 processing fee.
There will be no refund for cancellations after April 24th.
No registration after April 24th.
Step 3 -> Payment part 2: Facilities Fee:
Click on this link to access the Garrison Institute program registration website.Follow the instructions to pay the facilities fee and request accommodations as described below. Please also read the Garrison Institute Cancellation Policy page for information regarding cancellations.
You must complete both part 1 and 2 (Toko and GI) to register for the program.
GARRISON INSTITUTE
SATURDAY, MAY 6 – 10, 2026
REGISTER ONLINE WITH TOKO KYUDODOJO
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This year’s program will also include our biannual scholarship auction. Whether or not you plan to attend the program, please consider donating something good to our auction. Proceeds go to our scholarship fund. The scholarship fund helps people attend when cost is an issue. This year, we have used some of the scholarship funds to reduce the Toko program fee. If you need additional monetary assistance to attend our spring program, please do not hesitate to request a scholarship.
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Toko Kyudojo offers scholarships to help practitioners attend programs. This year we will offer a limited number of grants in the amounts of $160, $250, and $350 in the order that requests are received. There is no form to fill out. If cost is a significant issue that might prevent your attendance, please request a grant at the level that fits your need. Please submit your request in email to admin@tokokyudojo.org.
Any questions or comments? Please contact us at: programs@tokokyudojo.org. We look forward to seeing you along the Hudson River this spring.
We are always pleased to accept contributions to the scholarship fund – large or small. Contributions are fully tax-deductible. Please visit the DONATE page of our website.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
2026 JAPAN DAY PARADE
NYBA is proud to be participating in the 2026 Japan Day Parade – this ultimately leads to the Japan Day in Central Park, which was founded to build and strengthen the appreciation and awareness of cultural understanding between the local Japanese communities and New York City.
We will always stand for unity, equality, and we promise to work tirelessly in the pursuit of respect for all.Respond with kindness.
#StopAsianHate
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
This is an advanced keiko (practice) for NYBA students who are NIDAN and above.
This practice is INVITE ONLY.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
This is an advanced keiko (practice) for NYBA students who are NIDAN and above.
This practice is INVITE ONLY.
NYBA – KYUDO SEMINAR WITH RICK BEAL SENSEI
NYBA is excited to host Sensei Rick Beal (Nanka Budo Kai), who will lead a 2-day workshop in Kyudo at The Center at Marinadale. He instructs in multiple styles of Kyudo including both shaman & shomen varieties.
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Rick Beal began training in Japanese Budo at a young age in 1966. But his real revelation came in the early 80’s with his sword teacher Hirotaka Okubo (Okubo-sensei). Okubo-sensei had studied kyudo with Kosaka-sensei and Mishima-sensei in Los Angeles; so Okubo-sensei incorporated the basic movements of kyudo into his warm up exercises for the sword classes. When asked why, Okubo-sensei replied, “If you lay down your sword and practice kyudo for ten years, then pick up the sword again, your sword will also be ten years better. No other martial art will do that, only kyudo.”
Prior to meeting Okubo-sensei, Rick had owned and operated a small karate/kobudo school. Okubo-sensei and insisted that if Rick wanted to train with him, he must close his school. Rick closed the school and traveled around the area to find places for each of his senior students to train. One of those students (one of Rick’s top students) couldn’t find any other instructor he wanted to train with, or any other art that he would rather study. So Rick took him to meet Okubo-sensei in hopes that they could train together. The student had no interest in the sword, and really didn’t bond with Okubo-sensei; but upon seeing the kyudo warm up he exclaimed, “What is that? I want to do that!”
Okubo-sensei wrote a letter of introduction for the young man to Mishima-sensei and sent him to the Higashi Hongwanji temple to begin kyudo. Being one of Rick’s previous karate students, he asked Rick to come along for moral support.
Rick came and the two of them were told to sit down and watch (it was customary at that time in the class to have prospective students watch for three classes before they could begin instruction). But for some reason, Mishima-sensei approached them and asked them to join the other beginning students that he was teaching to walk. Although Rick’s friend stood up immediately, Rick explained that he had no interest in training in kyudo, but he had only come to offer support to his friend. Mishima-sensei insisted that Rick should also train, but Rick demurred, saying that he did not want to waste the-sensei’s time and that he would only be there for one day and then be gone. Mishima-sensei said, “One day of practice is one day of practice.” Rick practiced with the group that day, and has practiced with them ever since.
Follow him:
@BUDORICK on Facebook
@BudoRick on Instagram
@budorick3624 on YouTube
SEMINAR SCHEDULE:
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2 PM– Check-in to the retreat center.
6 PM – DINNER
X PM – ZEN MEDITATION
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7 AM – ZEN MEDITATION
8 AM – BREAKFAST
9 AM – OPENING REIHO
9:30 AM – SILENT KEIKO
1 PM – LUNCH
2 PM – KEIKO
5 PM – CLOSING REIHO
6 PM – DINNER
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7 AM – ZEN MEDITATION
8 AM – BREAKFAST
9 AM – OPENING REIHO
9:30 AM – SILENT KEIKO
12 PM – CHECK-OUT
1 PM – LUNCH
2 PM – KEIKO
4 PM – CLOSING REIHO
4:30 PM – TRAVEL TO NYC
7 PM – FAREWELL DINNER
SEMINAR FEE:
$450 – SEMINAR FEE (INCLUDES ACCOMMODATIONS + MEALS)
$300 – STUDENT RATE (INCLUDES ACCOMMODATIONS + MEALS)
$150 – SEMINAR FEE ONLY (2-DAYS)
$75 – SEMINAR FEE ONLY –STUDENT RATE (2-DAYS)
MEMORIAL TO OTANI SENSEI
This is a special class dedicated to the founder of NYBA (formerly New York Budokai) – Otani Sensei, on the memorial of his passing in JUNE 2004.
KANJIRO SHIBATA SENSEI XXI 2026
2026 Kyudo Intensive with Kanjuro Shibata XXI Sensei
Our friends at GINKOKYUDOJO will be hosting a Kyudo Intensive with Shibata Sensei XXI this year at Bodhi Manda Zen Center in New Mexico. The program, as usual, will include sitting meditation,work practice, lots of kyudo practice, evening talks and discussions. There will be opportunities for question and answer sessions and individual instruction. After a long day, the hot springs are available for relaxation.
WHEN: Wednesday, September 24- Sunday September 28
(arrival on Wednesday 1-5pm.
program ends Sunday 4pm
NOTE: Proof of full vaccination and masks may be required so please make sure to have one. An antigen test upon arrival may be required. This information will be updated closer to the program dates.
Please continue to the next page for the registration form (TBD).
YOU WILL NOT BE REGISTERED until you submit both the registration form AND payment.
PLEASE RSVP AS SPACE IS LIMITED
𖥸
PLEASE RSVP AS SPACE IS LIMITED 𖥸
$XXX REGISTRATION FEE (NO DISCOUNTS, NO DAY RATE)
Note: Registration is not complete until you submit both the registration form AND payment.
MEALS INCLUDED – lunch all four days, dinner on Thursday and Friday
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ARRIVAL
CHECK-IN
Practice Time: 9am-5pmDinner Time : 5pm-7pm
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Practice Time: 9am-5pm
Yumi making demo: 5pm-6pm
Dinner Time : 6pm - 7pm
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Location : Showa Institute
Practice Time: 9am- 5pm
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Practice Time: 9am- 3pm
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CHECK-OUT
DEPARTURE
1 Bodhi Drive, Jemez Springs, NM, 87025 • (575) 829-3854 • office@bmzc.org
NYBA – 2025 FALL IAIDO SHINSA 審査 (ONLINE)
NYBA will be hosting it’s fall Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this Oct. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. OCT. 10th 4–6 PM (EST)
🌸 🌸 🌸
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. OCT. 10th 4–6 PM (EST) 🌸 🌸 🌸
Online exam will be held for NYBA remote members:
SAT. OCT. 11th 4 – 6 PM
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA – 2026 FALL IAIDO SHINSA 審査
NYBA will be hosting it’s fall Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this Oct. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. OCT. 17th 4–6 PM (EST)
🌸 🌸 🌸
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. OCT. 17th 4–6 PM (EST) 🌸 🌸 🌸
Online exam will be held for NYBA remote members:
SAT. OCT. 11th 4 – 6 PM
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA – 2027 SPRING IAIDO SHINSA 審査 (ONLINE)
NYBA will be hosting it’s SPRING ONLINE Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this April. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA – 2026 SPRING IAIDO SHINSA 審査 (Copy)
NYBA will be hosting it’s SPRING Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this April. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. APRIL 11th 4–6 PM (EST)
🌸 🌸 🌸
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. APRIL 11th 4–6 PM (EST) 🌸 🌸 🌸
Online exam will be held for NYBA remote members:
SAT. APRIL. 11th 4 – 6 PM
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
2026 GNYNF 20th ANNIVERSARY – ANNUAL SEMINAR & TAIKAI
The Greater New York Naginata Federation would like to formally invite you to celebrate our 20th anniversary at our 2026 Annual Seminar and Taikai with special guest instructors:
Toyoko NARITA Sensei (Kyoshi)
Kayami HACHIMINE Sensei (Renshi) – AJNF
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
This is an advanced keiko (practice) for NYBA students who are NIDAN and above.
This practice is INVITE ONLY.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
FEBRUARY KYUDO PRACTICE AT GARRISON INSTITUTE
Kyudo practice at Garrison Institute – Tokokyudojo
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FALL 2025
SIGN-UPS ARE NOW OPEN (=ච ω ච=)
SIGN-UPS ARE NOW OPEN (=ච ω ච=)
THE 2026 SPRING CLASSES ARE NOW OPEN!
Unfortunately we only have a limited amount of equipment (swords and naginata), as well as a limited amount of studio space – please register if you’re interested in this class and if there is an available spot we’ll let you know!
Please consider this club is more of a course in Japanese Budo (Iaido (sword) and Naginata (pole-arm), where we develop skills throughout the semester. NO EQUIPMENT or EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. These classes are only open to current Pratt Students and Faculty members. As we have a limited number of bokken (wooden swords) and naginata, we do encourage our members to eventually purchase their own equipment and uniforms – we can assist in this when you are ready. Due to limited space and equipment we are limiting the class size. If you wish to register later in the semester, please send us an email or DM asking if there is an available spot.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class – Fridays 2X per month
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class (trial run) starting on Fridays 2X per month in Janurary
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
NYBA – ADVANCED KEIKO (稽古)
This is an advanced keiko (practice) for NYBA students who are NIDAN and above.
This practice is INVITE ONLY.
NYBA NAGINATA – LIC
NYBA is excited to announce an additional 2-HR Naginata class (trial run) starting on Fridays 2X per month in Janurary
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Please RSVP if you plan on attending. This class is open to all NYBA, GNYNF, Columbia and Pratt Naginata members.
NOTE: THERE IS NO STORAGE, STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT.
CLASS FEES:
NYBA MEMBERS – FREE
PRATT BUDO CLUB – FREE
KEN ZEN – $10 MAT FEE
CU NAGINATA – $10 MAT FEE
JANUARY KYUDO PRACTICE AT GARRISON INSTITUTE
Kyudo practice at Garrison Institute – Tokokyudojo
DECEMBER KYUDO PRACTICE AT GARRISON INSTITUTE
Kyudo practice at Garrison Institute – Tokokyudojo
NYBA HOLIDAY PARTY
We hope you can join the NYBA ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY –
There will be no class, we’ll just meet up at the restaurant.
PING’S SEAFOOD – 22 MOTT STREET
RVSP REQUIRED BEFORE 12/10/25
PRATT BUDO CLUB – HOLIDAY DIM SUM
Come celebrate the end of the 2025 Fall Semester with some Dim Sum!
SUNDAY – DECEMBER 14th 10AM
EAST HARBOR SEAFOOD PALACE – 714 65th St, Brooklyn, NY 11220
A contribution of $10 – $20 would be very much appreciated.
Please RSVP
OPEN TO PRATT BUDO CLUB & NAGINATA CLUB MEMBERS – COLUMBIA NAGINATA CLUB MEMBERS ARE ALSO WELCOME!
GNYNF – SHINSA EXAM
Greater New York Naginata Federation is holding a shinsa (exam) on Sunday, Dec. 7th.
TESTING DETAILS
Exam Level: Up to IKKYU (1st KYU)
TESTING FEE – $20
PAYMENT DETAILS:
Paypal: gnytreasurer@gmail.com
Venmo : @PJ-Magpayo
Zelle: treasurer@gnynf.org
All payments are due by Nov. 23rd, 2025.
(=‘x‘=)
All payments are due by Nov. 23rd, 2025. (=‘x‘=)
Please send all applications and payment receipts to your respective dojo reps
Columbia/Pratt: Otto Herman ottoherman05@gmail.com
NYBA: Edward Kim edbkim@outlook.com
Ken-Zen: Bea Circelli beacircelli@gmail.com
Cambridge: Adriano Fernandes adrihfernandes@gmail.com
Maryland Jyoshinkai: Yuri Maeda yurijanemaeda@gmail.com
Shimbukan Mexico: Olivier Le Guen ompleguen@gmail.com
If you do not have a dojo rep, please send me your application directly – Katie Roche gnynaginata@gnynf.org
ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO JOIN THE USNF AND GNYNF TO HOLD OFFICIAL RANK – PLEASE FILL OUT AND SUBMIT APPLICATIONS BELOW.
PRICING:
GNYNF registration – $20 ($10 STUDENTS)
USNF registration – $45
JOINT PRACTICE
GNYNF is organizing a joint practice with CU Naginata and Pratt Naginata at Columbia University.
Please coordinate with your coaches with regards to equipment and transportation.
NOVEMBER KYUDO PRACTICE AT GARRISON INSTITUTE
Kyudo practice at Garrison Institute – Tokokyudojo
INTRO TO KYUDO
The Pratt Iaido class will be holding a special intro class* to Kyudo (Japanese Archery) with Sensei Phil Ortiz at New York Budo Association.
Class will be held at
Joffrey Ballet – 434 6th Ave.
(3rd Floor – Studio 2)
6 – 8 PM
*Only open to Pratt students and faculty members.
ALL PRATT BUDO CLUB MEMBERS ARE REQUIRED TO REGISTER AN NYBA GYMDESK ACCOUNT – SIGNING OUR CODE OR ETHICS AGREEMENT AND OUR LEGAL WAIVER BEFORE ATTENDING NYBA CLASSES*.
*ONLY ACTIVE PRATT BUDO CLUB MEMBERS CAN TAKE UNLIMITED NYBA CLASSES FOR FREE! Pratt students only pay $25 per month for the first two years after graduating (after that you will be required to pay full NYBA monthly dues).
SENSEI CHARLES BOLEWARE – NJ BUDOKAI
We are happy to host former New York Budokai member Sensei Charles Boleware and head instructor of New Jersey Budokai (RSR 5th Dan/Renshi and Jun-Shidoin) as a special guest instructor.
WEDS. NOV. 12, 2025
7 – 9 PM
aniTOMO – Kawaii Kreature Festival at Brooklyn Children’s Museum – かわいい生き物フェスティバル
On Sunday October 26th from 10:30am-6:30pm, families are encouraged to come in costume to trick-or-treat around the exhibits, meet creepy crawlies from BCM’s animal collection, and participate in a kids’ costume contest.
On the Museum’s rooftop, visitors will dive into the world of anime at the inaugural Kawaii Kreature Festival. Snap photos with professional cosplayers, participate in Japanese-inspired art workshops, and enjoy a free anime screening of Okko’s Inn presented by AniTOMO in the Museum’s movie theater.
NYBA is proud to be participating in the first aniTOMO Kawaii Kreature Festival hosted at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. This is FREE event for the public. NYBA will be performing an Embu (demonstration/performance) in KENJUTSU/IAIDO (Japanese sword – Ryushin Shouchi Ryu 柳心照智流).
We will also be offering numerous small workshops in Japanese Sword (limited availability so please register online).
Each workshop will last approximately 15 – 20 minutes and will include some sword basics:
– How to hold the sword properly (Tenouchi (手の内).
– How to draw the sword.
– How to cut – Suburi practice.
NYBA will lend you an obi (belt) and a bokken (wooden sword and saya).
NYBA DEMO IS AT 4 – 4:20 PM*
*Please confirm time of demonstration at the day of the event as it is subject to change.
NYBA – 2025 FALL IAIDO SHINSA 審査
NYBA will be hosting it’s fall Shinsa (exam) for Iaido students this Oct. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. OCT. 11th 4–6 PM (EST)
🌸 🌸 🌸
ONLINE EXAM – SAT. OCT. 11th 4–6 PM (EST) 🌸 🌸 🌸
Online exam will be held for NYBA remote members:
SAT. OCT. 11th 4 – 6 PM
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
NYBA – 2025 FALL IAIDO SHINSA 審査 (ONLINE)
NYBA will be hosting it’s fall Shinsa (online exam) for Iaido students this Oct. Exams are held every 6-months, there are NO-TESTING FEES. However we will require students who are taking the exam to be proficient in the requirements for the rank they are testing for. After being asked to test, students can register below. If a student does not pass the exam, not to worry, we will work with you to help you better prepare for the next exam in 6-months. Our goal is to ensure a higher standard of proficiency for NYBA students, not to just hand out ranks.
NYBA certificate fees are due immediately after the exam – payments can be made through the NYBA MEMBERS PAGE.
NYBA CERTIFICATE FEE – $40*
*NON-NYBA MEMBERS AND REMOTE MEMBERS – $50
RSR Honbu rank is optional for NYBA members. If you wish to hold RSR Honbu rank you will be required to adhering to RSR TESTING REQUIREMENTS as well as pay RSR ANNUAL DUES $100+ TESTING AND CERTIFICATE FEES.
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure you have a space to demonstrate techniques, make sure your camera works and you have a good internet connection. Be sure to keep your mic on mute unless asked to turn it on.
GNYNF – SHINSA EXAM
Greater New York Naginata Federation is holding a shinsa (exam) on Saturday, Oct. 5th.
TESTING DETAILS
Exam Level: Up to IKKYU (1st KYU)
TESTING FEE – $20
PAYMENT DETAILS:
Paypal: gnytreasurer@gmail.com
Venmo : @PJ-Magpayo
Zelle: treasurer@gnynf.org
All payments are due by Sept. 23rd, 2025.
(=‘x‘=)
All payments are due by Sept. 23rd, 2025. (=‘x‘=)
Please send all applications and payment receipts to your respective dojo reps
Columbia/Pratt: Otto Herman ottoherman05@gmail.com
NYBA: Edward Kim edbkim@outlook.com
Ken-Zen: Bea Circelli beacircelli@gmail.com
Cambridge: Adriano Fernandes adrihfernandes@gmail.com
Maryland Jyoshinkai: Yuri Maeda yurijanemaeda@gmail.com
Shimbukan Mexico: Olivier Le Guen ompleguen@gmail.com
If you do not have a dojo rep, please send me your application directly – Katie Roche gnynaginata@gnynf.org
ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO JOIN THE USNF AND GNYNF TO HOLD OFFICIAL RANK – PLEASE FILL OUT AND SUBMIT APPLICATIONS BELOW.
PRICING:
GNYNF registration – $20 ($10 STUDENTS)
USNF registration – $45
OCTOBER KYUDO PRACTICE AT GARRISON INSTITUTE
Kyudo practice at Garrison Institute – Tokokyudojo

