Welcome to Shiraoka Kendo Kai, the leading kendo dojo in Bellshill, and the only kendo school in the Lanarkshire area. Founded in 2008 by Gareth Spiers, a 5th Dan Certified BKA Coach, our dojo is dedicated to the practise and promotion of kendo locally and across the nation.
The name Shiraoka Kendo Kai, which translates to “Whitehill Kendo Association,” pays homage to the Whitehill area of Hamilton, where the club was initially established. We are proud to continue the tradition and spirit of kendo in this region.
Whether you are a seasoned kendo practitioner or a complete beginner, Shiraoka Kendo Kai welcomes you. We offer Beginner's Courses for those who want to start their kendo journey. Our courses provide comprehensive training and guidance for beginners, ensuring a strong foundation in kendo principles and techniques.
Our weekly training sessions take place every Wednesday at 8:00pm at the Sir Matt Busby Leisure Centre in Bellshill. For those interested in joining or have any inquiries, directions, and contact details can be found on our Contact & Location page.
Stay updated with the latest news, updates, and events by following us on our Facebook and Twitter pages. We keep our social media platforms active to engage with our members and share information about the club.
Please note that occasionally there may be cancellations or updates regarding our sessions. We strive to keep our members informed promptly through our social media channels and website.
At Shiraoka Kendo Kai, we celebrate the achievements and successes of our members. From passing important gradings to participating in tournaments, we support and recognise the hard work and dedication displayed by our members.
As we navigate through challenging times, including the current pandemic, we are working towards gradually reopening our club with reduced numbers and irregular sessions due to our venue also operating as a part-time vaccination centre. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our members and those interested in joining us during this time. We aim to return to regular training sessions and accommodate new beginners as restrictions ease and circumstances permit.
On behalf of Gareth Spiers, our club leader, we want to express our gratitude to our members, past, present, and future. We understand the difficulties faced during the past year, and we look forward to brighter days ahead. Keep an eye on our website and social media platforms for updates on training sessions and the restart of beginners' courses.
Thank you for your interest in Shiraoka Kendo Kai. We hope to see you soon on the training floor, ready to immerse yourself in the art and discipline of kendo.