Walthamstow Battodo - Japanese Sword Dojo London
Martial Arts Clubs
Walthamstow Battodo - Japanese Sword Dojo London
Entrance on Church Lane, London
# Walthamstow Battodo Description
Walthamstow Battodo is a Japanese sword martial arts school in East London, led by Bogdan Drinkov sensei, 3rd dan. The dojo specialises in two distinct training systems: Nakamura Ryu Battodo and Kurikara Ryu Heiho. Battodo, meaning "the way of drawing and striking with the katana," focuses on the practical application of traditional Japanese sword techniques, whilst Kurikara Ryu Heiho provides comprehensive external and internal training designed to develop both physical mastery and mental clarity.
The school stands out through its authentic lineage. Bogdan Drinkov studies directly under John Maki Evans sensei (7th dan) at Battodo Fudokan, who trained extensively under Nakamura Taizaburō sensei, the founder of Nakamura Ryu Battodo, in Japan. This direct transmission ensures students receive instruction rooted in traditional samurai kenjutsu adapted for modern practitioners.
Nakamura Ryu Battodo represents a refined distillation of classical Japanese sword fighting, developed by one of the 20th century's most respected swordsmen. Kurikara Ryu Heiho complements this with a systematic approach to removing mental and physical obstacles, enabling natural and spontaneous sword wielding.
The dojo serves East London's Waltham Forest area, including Walthamstow, Wanstead, Chingford, Leyton and Woodford. It appeals to those seeking authentic martial arts training grounded in Japanese tradition, emphasising personal development alongside technical skill.
Walthamstow Battodo is a Japanese sword martial arts school in East London, led by Bogdan Drinkov sensei, 3rd dan. The dojo specialises in two distinct training systems: Nakamura Ryu Battodo and Kurikara Ryu Heiho. Battodo, meaning "the way of drawing and striking with the katana," focuses on the practical application of traditional Japanese sword techniques, whilst Kurikara Ryu Heiho provides comprehensive external and internal training designed to develop both physical mastery and mental clarity.
The school stands out through its authentic lineage. Bogdan Drinkov studies directly under John Maki Evans sensei (7th dan) at Battodo Fudokan, who trained extensively under Nakamura Taizaburō sensei, the founder of Nakamura Ryu Battodo, in Japan. This direct transmission ensures students receive instruction rooted in traditional samurai kenjutsu adapted for modern practitioners.
Nakamura Ryu Battodo represents a refined distillation of classical Japanese sword fighting, developed by one of the 20th century's most respected swordsmen. Kurikara Ryu Heiho complements this with a systematic approach to removing mental and physical obstacles, enabling natural and spontaneous sword wielding.
The dojo serves East London's Waltham Forest area, including Walthamstow, Wanstead, Chingford, Leyton and Woodford. It appeals to those seeking authentic martial arts training grounded in Japanese tradition, emphasising personal development alongside technical skill.
Services offered
Nakamura Ryu Battodo trainingKurikara Ryu Heiho instructionKata practiceSword technique refinementMartial arts coachingMental discipline trainingPhysical conditioningGrading and belt progression