Chanbara Helsinki

Sport Chanbara is a sword-fighting sport that originated in Japan, in which two competitors face each other with padded weapons in various match formats. It is a fast-paced, low-threshold hobby: you can join in from the very first session, and no previous background or knowledge of techniques is needed – you learn by doing.

Sport Chanbara suits almost everyone: children and young people, adults, beginners and practitioners of other martial arts. Through matches you automatically pick up self-defence skills along the way.

Training sessions cover warm-ups, basic techniques, pair work and match practice – for children also games and play. You can enjoy the sport as a relaxed hobby, as a way to improve with clear goals, or through competition.

Training times and venues in Helsinki will be added here.

The sport uses padded weapons such as the tanto (dagger), kodachi (short sword), choken (long sword), yari (spear) and tate (shield and weapon). The head is protected by a helmet, and gloves are recommended when sparring. You can get started without your own equipment.

Clothing is free – for example judo or karate trousers and a T-shirt work well, and on the tatami you move barefoot.

What is Sport Chanbara?

Sport Chanbara is a sword-fighting sport originating from Japan, in which two fighters face each other with padded weapons in different match formats. It is fast-paced and easy to start: you can join from the very first session, and no previous background or technique skills are needed.

Who is Chanbara for?

Sport Chanbara suits almost everyone: children and teenagers, adults, beginners and practitioners of other martial arts.

Where and when does Chanbara Helsinki train?

Chanbara Helsinki trains at ValimoGym (Valimotie 16, Helsinki) and, when needed, at schools. The training times will be confirmed later. The spring 2027 training times will be published in December, based on registrations. Please arrive about 15 minutes before training starts.

How much does Chanbara cost?

The annual base fee is €200 (January–December 2027, including summer training) and the season base fee is €150 (January–June 2027). The sibling annual fee is €100. For every paying child, one adult trains free of charge. A Kamppailukorporaatio licence is also needed, at €20 per year. With it you can train at all Kamppailukorporaatio clubs once you have paid the training fee to one club.

Can I try Chanbara first?

Yes. There are two free trial sessions. After the third session an invoice for the season fee (€150) is sent automatically. Licences and insurance are not checked at trial sessions, so trying is at your own risk.

What do I need to bring?

A T-shirt, sweatpants, a (plastic) water bottle and a small towel. Training is barefoot, without socks and jewellery. You can get started without your own equipment.

How do I sign up?

Sign up in myClub at besa.myclub.fi. Questions: [email protected] or +358 400 469 206 (also WhatsApp).