Because my father worked for a film company, I had the opportunity to watch many movies from a young age. In the film industry, there’s a system called a preview screening, a showing held for staff and industry insiders before a film is released to the public. My father often invited me to these screenings, and I would share my honest impressions afterward: “That was interesting,” or “That one was boring.”
One day, my father told me there was a movie I absolutely had to see. It was called Field of Dreams. Do you know this film?
Abe Akihito
Born in 1974 in Osaka. While studying under Professor Fukumoto Shuji at Keio University, he created what is said to be the world’s first Kendo website (www.isenokami.com). After working at Dentsu Inc. and OgilvyOne Japan, he joined Kayac Inc., a creative agency known for its unique approach. He is involved in internet-based advertising, creative development, and campaign planning, and has received numerous domestic and international awards. Since 1997, he has served as a member of the Information Systems Committee of the All Japan Kendo Federation. Holds the rank of 3rd Dan in Kendo.
Translation: Sato Mariko, Pepijn Boomgaard
Field of Dreams
“If you build it, he will come.”
This mysterious phrase is repeated throughout the movie Field of Dreams. Ray, the protagonist who lives in a small rural town in Iowa, hears a voice telling him to build a baseball field in the middle of his cornfield. Naturally, those around him don’t understand, and he risks losing everything but he holds fast to his belief and completes the field.
Then, one by one, legendary players of the past emerge from between the rows of corn, and the field becomes the stage for a series of miraculous events. Eventually, the players disappear back into the corn, leaving only a lone catcher behind. When the catcher removes his mask, it’s revealed to be Ray’s father in his younger days; the two had once parted on bad terms. The film ends with a silent game of catch between father and son.
Even if others laugh and say it’s impossible, when someone pursues a dream with true conviction, it can become reality. This heartwarming fantasy film reminds us of that powerful truth.
That said, chasing a dream with unwavering dedication and realizing it is no easy task. I, too, have long dreamed of building a Dojo where Kendo enthusiasts from across the country could gather, just like Ray did in the film. But since I’ve yet to gather the personal funds to make that happen, the plan has made little progress.
Then, just recently, I heard about a Dojo in Gifu that seemed like a dream made real—and I immediately went to visit.
Visiting Sogyokukan
The Dojo I visited was Sogyokukan, located in Kani City, Gifu Prefecture. The name, which means “the pavilion where jewels are rinsed,” reflects the idea of refining both technique and character—of “polishing the self” like washing a precious gem. The Dojo was completed in 2021 and stands next to Don’yosha, the training facility of Valor Holdings, a company that operates supermarkets, drugstores, and fitness gyms across the Tokai region.
My guide was Kukihara Yuji, the head coach of the Valor Kendo Club. Many Kenshi may recognize his name, as he was formerly an accomplished corporate Kendo competitor with Toyo Suisan. He told me that when he visited Sogyokukan at the time of its completion, he was so moved by the atmosphere of the Dojo that he decided to change careers and join Valor. Friendly and approachable, he spoke passionately about Kendo.
We parked at Don’yosha and walked together to Sogyokukan. Although the walk took only a minute or two, as the buildings are adjacent, the path leading to the Dojo was already something special. A winding road built along a slope was lined with a variety of plants, offering a glimpse of Gifu’s natural beauty throughout the seasons. The walk itself serves to calm the heart and prepare the mind for practice.
Soon, the Dojo came into view and its presence was truly majestic. Built atop a stone foundation, the pure Japanese-style structure had a quiet dignity that made it hard to believe it had only been completed in 2021. As we passed through the front gate, I was struck by the vivid green moss spreading across both sides of the entry. To the back left stood a waterfall crafted from stacked stones, a symbolic reflection of the Dojo’s name and spirit. Near the entrance stood a large earthen jar, nearly as tall as a child. What could it be? With curiosity and a growing sense of awe, I finally stepped inside.
The Warmth of Wood and the Echoing Jar
The moment you step into Sogyokukan, what strikes you first is the overwhelming warmth of wood. High-quality timber has been used throughout the space, and even years after its completion, the scent of wood still lingers in the air. The flooring is made from millimeter-thick Akita cedar, providing just the right amount of softness to reduce strain on the legs and lower back.
But beneath this beautiful floor lies a surprising feature. The large earthen jar (Kame) that had been placed at the entrance is actually buried below the floor with its mouth facing upward. This technique, also used in traditional Noh stages, adds a natural reverberation to the sound of Fumikomi-ashi. When I stepped in to try it myself, I immediately noticed the difference—the sound was completely unique.
The Dojo is spacious enough to accommodate two full-size Shiai-jo, and on one side, it includes a spectator area with tatami flooring. The facility also boasts fully equipped shower and changing rooms for both men and women. Everything has been thoughtfully designed.
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the interior, I stepped outside to clear my head and only to be struck once more. From the Dojo grounds, the view of Gifu’s surrounding mountains is breathtaking, as if one were standing on the stage of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Perfect for Training Camps
As mentioned earlier, Sogyokukan was built adjacent to Don’yosha, the training facility operated by Valor Holdings. While advance reservations are required, Kendo practitioners can stay overnight at Don’yosha. The facility offers a range of accommodations, from spacious tatami-mat rooms to Western-style hotel rooms, allowing groups to choose based on their size and needs.
The on-site employee cafeteria is also open to local residents and is said to be quite popular for its delicious buffet—a reflection of Valor’s expertise in operating supermarkets. In short, with both Sogyokukan and Don’yosha available, one can hold a full-scale Kendo training camp in a traditional Japanese-style Dojo setting.
For international Kendo clubs and national teams, this may well be an ideal training destination.
That said, one can’t help but wonder—who envisioned and built such an extraordinary dojo?
The Vision Behind Its Creation
Sogyokukan is the realization of a vision shared by Tashiro Masami, Chairman of Valor Holdings, and his wife, Tashiro Kumiko, Director of the Ito Youth Development Scholarship Foundation.
Chairman Tashiro became interested in Kendo after reading a newspaper article about a woman who had earned her first Dan in her later years. Inspired by her story, he decided to take up Kendo himself and soon became captivated by its depth. He still trains twice a week to this day.
Sogyokukan was born from the desire to explore the spirit of traditional Japan—how the practice of martial arts can bring clarity to the mind and a sense of alignment to one’s way of life.
The name Sogyokukan refers to the image of water polishing a jewel, while the neighboring Don’yosha is named after don’yo—the tender first leaves of a plant. Together, these names reflect a deep commitment to nurturing human growth and character development.
“If You Build It, the Kenshi Will Come”
Today, many Kenshi are drawn to Sogyokukan, the embodiment of Chairman Tashiro’s vision. There, you’ll find individuals who love Kendo engaging in serious practice, refining their technique and spirit.
In the film Field of Dreams, legendary baseball players gather at the field built by the protagonist. Likewise, Sogyokukan has become a place where those who pursue the way of the sword naturally come together.
Dreams have the power to move people. Born from unwavering belief, Sogyokukan will undoubtedly continue to inspire all who step onto its floor as a “Dojo of ideals” for generations of Kenshi to come.
