What is Jodo, and how is it connected to Turku?
it will be the first time in 10 years that the Finnish National Jodo Championship is held in Turku
Jodo is a traditional Japanese martial art that utilizes a wooden staff (jo) to control and neutralize an opponent wielding a sword. Unlike many martial arts focused on striking or grappling, Jodo techniques emphasize precision, timing, and fluid movements.
Though not as widely known as other Japanese martial arts, Jodo holds a dedicated following in Finland, particularly within the Finnish Kendo Association (FKA). "The national competition is important not only for the association but also for the practitioners themselves,"
explains Tea Pihlaja, Jodo Manager at the Central Association of Kendo Clubs in Finland.
According to different sources of information, Jodo traces its origins -at least one of its lines- to Shindo Muso Ryu Jojutsu, a discipline established nearly 400 years ago by master swordsman Muso Gonnosuke, who had trained in the prestigious Katori Shinto Ryu. His innovation was the development of the jo—a short staff that, while longer than a sword, was agile enough to strike, thrust, and sweep with both ends.
During Japan’s Tokugawa period, Shindo Muso Ryu Jojutsu became a core discipline for the military police (samurai retainers), who were often required to subdue rather than kill their opponents. This led to the evolution of a sophisticated set of techniques that are still practiced today, emphasizing control, adaptability, and non-lethal engagement.
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Jodo in Turku: a renewed spirit
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Jodo has been practiced in Turku for many years, traditionally following a style distinct from the one developed under the Finnish Kendo Association. However, in recent years, participation dwindled, especially due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yet, Turku is now witnessing a Jodo resurgence. A combination of renewed interest and dedicated practitioners has reinvigorated local training, leading to a new generation of Jodoka (Jodo practitioners). This revitalization is set to be showcased on a national level as Turku hosts the Finnish National Jodo Championship from March 14 to 16, 2025.
This marks a historic moment for the martial arts community in Finland, as it will be the first time in 10 years that the Finnish National Jodo Championship is held in Turku, the country’s first capital.
A gateway to international competition
This national championship is more than just a local tournament—the results will help determine who will represent Finland in the upcoming European Jodo Championships, which will be held later this year in Poland. The 2025 edition of the European Championships will mark its 23rd iteration, bringing together top practitioners from across the continent.
With Finland’s rising Jodo community and Turku at the heart of this martial arts revival, the upcoming championship is an exciting moment for both longtime martial arts enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
? For more details on the Finnish National Jodo Championship in Turku, click here.
