The way should be like the untouchable moon that is clearly seen reflected by the water.
– Toga Jikkyo Kan Morimasa
Kogetsukai is a Chicagoland nonprofit preserving traditional Japanese martial arts through authentic training in Iaido, Jodo, and Kenjutsu. Our practice cultivates skill, discipline, mindfulness, and personal growth.
Kogetsu (湖月), meaning “Moon Lake,” reflects the image of the moon over Lake Michigan—calm clarity guiding constant motion.
We offer adult training and a dedicated youth program, Rising Moon Warriors. Join us in a supportive, culturally enriching community.
Explore Our Training Paths
Rising Moon Warriors
Youth Martial Arts
Build confidence, respect, and coordination through martial arts.
Benifits of Training
At Kogetsukai, our training follows the Six Virtues of Budō: benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, sincerity, and bravery. These values guide both martial practice and personal growth.
Our programs welcome all ages and experience levels. Students develop qualities that strengthen everyday life, including:
- Confidence
- Discipline
- Focus and calm
- Fitness
- Timing and coordination
- Community
- Composure under pressure
- Harmony of mind and body
Train body, mind, and character in a respectful community rooted in tradition.
Begin with a Complimentary Introductory Class
The best way to understand training is to experience it firsthand. Beginners are welcome, and no prior martial arts experience is required.
Train in a respectful community dedicated to authentic Japanese martial arts, personal growth, and disciplined practice.
Your first class is complimentary.
Class Schedule & Training Information
Sundays
-
Senior Practice
12:00 – 12:45 pm
-
Jodo
12:50 – 2:30pm
-
Zazen
2:30 – 3:00 pm
-
Iaido & Kenjutsu
3:00 – 5:00 pm
-
6 week Intro Sword
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Thursdays
-
Zazen
7:00 – 7:45 pm
-
Hojo
7:45 – 8:30 pm
-
Iaido & Kenjutsu
8:30 – 10:00 pm
Saturdays
-
Kids Martial Arts L1
10:00 – 10:55 am
-
Kids Martial Arts L2
11:00 – 11:55 am
Saturdays
-
Kids Martial Arts (Level 1)
10:00 – 10:55 am
-
Kids Martial Arts (Level 2)
11:00 – 11:55 am
Sundays
-
Senior Practice
12:00 – 12:45 pm
-
Jodo
12:00 – 2:30 pm
-
Zazen
2:30 – 3:00 pm
-
Iaido & Kenjutsu
3:00 – 5:00 pm
-
6 week Intro Sword
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Thursdays
-
Zazen
7:00 – 7:45 pm
-
Hojo
7:45 – 8:30 pm
-
Iaido & Kenjutsu
8:30 – 10:00 pm
Monthly Specialty Training
Sugawara-ha Katori Shinto-ryu
Classical Japanese sword tradition offered one Saturday each month from 12:00 – 3:00 PM.
Monthly Training Support
Two nonprofit organizations sustain training in Chicago
Daiyuzenji Temple
$
50
a month
-
Supports the temple that hosts Kogetsukai's regular training.
Program Support
$
25
a month
-
Supports instruction, youth programs, seminars, and equipment.
Total Monthly Support
$75 / month
Includes access to weekly training in Iaido, Jodo, Kenjutsu, and affiliated programs.
We are grateful for your support of both organizations and for helping preserve these traditions in Chicago.
Visit Our Dojo
Daiyuzenji
3717 N. Ravenswood Ave. #112
Chicago IL 60613
Training Sundays & Thursdays
Parking Free street parking
Public Transit CTA Addison Brown Line station
New Students Complimentary introductory class by appointment.
Visit Our Dojo
Daiyuzenji
3717 N. Ravenswood Ave. #112
Chicago IL 60613
Training
- Sundays
- Thursdays
- Saturdays
Parking
Free street parking
Public Transit
CTA Addison Brown Line station
New Students
Complimentary introductory class by appointment.
Contact Kogetsukai
“We cross swords in friendship, train in sincerity, and grow through shared effort."
Kogetsukai, NFP is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization dedicated to the preservation and responsible transmission of traditional Japanese martial arts and Japanese cultural practices.
Kogetsukai maintains study affiliations with recognized organizations, including the Midwest Kendo Federation (MWKF).
Program fees support instruction and organizational operations. Donations support scholarships, youth programs, equipment, and community initiatives. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for contributions unless otherwise noted.
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