Zen without the accompanying physical experience is nothing but empty discussion. Martial ways without truly realizing the ‘Mind’ is nothing but beastly behavior.
— Omori Sōgen Rōshi
Our Mission
Kogetsukai is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization dedicated to preserving and sharing traditional Japanese martial arts, culture, and contemplative practice.
Our core training includes Iaido, Jodo, Kenjutsu, and Zen meditation, with additional study and programming drawn from related Japanese martial and cultural traditions.
Through disciplined practice, we cultivate respect, awareness, character, and lifelong learning while making these traditions accessible to children and adults of all experience levels.
History
Founded in 2019, Kogetsukai began as a small study group dedicated to preserving classical Japanese martial traditions. What started as a focused training community has grown into a nonprofit organization committed to education, cultural exchange, and community service.
In 2025, Kogetsukai became a federally recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization, strengthening our mission to make traditional Japanese martial arts and cultural education accessible to the wider community.
History
Founded in 2019, Kogetsukai began as a small study group dedicated to preserving classical Japanese martial traditions. What started as a focused training community has grown into a nonprofit organization committed to education, cultural exchange, and community service.
In 2025, Kogetsukai became a federally recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization, strengthening our mission to make traditional Japanese martial arts and cultural education accessible to the wider community.
Moon (Zen, clarity)
Waves = 5 Arts:
- Iaido
- Kenjutsu
- Jodo
- Naginata
- Ikebana
Great Lakes Region
Moon (Zen, clarity)
Waves = 5 Arts:
- Iaido
- Kenjutsu
- Jodo
- Naginata
- Ikebana
Great Lakes Region
Meaning of Kogetsukai
The name Kogetsukai (湖月会) combines Kogetsu (湖月), meaning “Moon over the Lake,” with kai (会), meaning “association” or “gathering.” Inspired by Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes region, the name reflects both our home and the spirit of our practice.
Our crest depicts one moon above five waves.
The moon represents Zen and the qualities of clarity, awareness, stillness, and reflection cultivated through practice.
The five waves represent the martial and cultural traditions that have shaped Kogetsukai: Iaido, Kenjutsu, Jodo, Naginata, and Ikebana.
Iaido, Kenjutsu, and Jodo form the core of our regular martial arts training, while Naginata and Ikebana reflect related traditions within Kogetsukai’s broader study and continuing development.
Together, the moon and waves symbolize calm within movement, inner cultivation through disciplined practice, and the different traditions that come together within Kogetsukai.
Charitable Status
Kogetsukai is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Tuition and donations directly support martial arts instruction, educational programming, community outreach, scholarships, training equipment, cultural programming, and opportunities that help make traditional Japanese arts accessible to the Chicago community.
Our Team
Kogetsukai is supported by dedicated instructors, directors, and volunteers who share a commitment to preserving and responsibly transmitting traditional Japanese martial arts and culture.
Together, our team brings experience in Iaido, Jodo, Kenjutsu, Naginata, Zen meditation, and related disciplines while fostering an environment of respect, integrity, community, and lifelong learning.
