About Us
We Are Zen Bu Kan
A Deep connection to zen
A Special Place with Unique Beginnings
Zen Bu Kan was founded in the spirit of moving meditation and discovery of the true self.
Founded in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1998, the school was started by Jules Shuzen Harris Roshi, who moved from Pennsylvania to Salt Lake while working on deepening his practice of Zen. Harris Sensei had practiced iaido and kendo at the renowned Ken Zen Dojo in New York. The connection of the Samurai and Zen was well written about in ancient Japan by the Buddhist priest Takuan Soho.
Valid Iaido & Kendo Recognized World-WIde
Members of the All United States Kendo Federation
Zen Bu Kan is a school of Japanese swordsmanship. The school is a member of the All United States Kendo Federation.
The primary arts taught at Zen Bu Kan include Iaido & Kendo. Both of these traditional Japanese martial arts address different aspects of the sword. The practice of traditional samurai arts is held in high regard by Japan. Training in such arts is highly regulated to ensure the proper preservation of the traditions. At Zen Bu Kan, students can train with confidence that they are learning from experienced instructors held to a high standard by the U.S. national federation and instructors abroad in Japan.
Benchmark Dojo Accomplishments
National & Regional Tournament Medals
Zen Bu Kan instructors and students alike, commonly achieve success in competition.
A Growing Body of Qualified Instructors
Zen Bu Kan continues to have a growing body of competent teachers interested in supporting the growth of quality sword practices.
Rank & medals are nice but are not the goal. Rather they are possibly a reflection of practicing with dedication and focused intent. Iaido and kendo must be practiced without a mind for attainment but rather in letting go. Enjoying a practice of never ending cultivation while not missing the beautiful perfection already present in this moment.