Kendo is the art of Japanese fencing, practised now with bamboo swords, called Shinai. The participants wear some protective clothing (as shown above, that's me on the right) and points are scored with strikes to the head, throat, torso and hands. To find out more about this sport, or to visit a dojo near you, check out the All United States Kendo Federation, the internationally recognized Kendo governing body of the United States.

In addition to my interest in Kendo, I also like Japanese chess. Called Shogi, this form of chess is very interesting and quite different from western style chess (the ability to put captured pieces back on the board for your side makes for some very lively games). For more info on Shogi, click here.