Kyudo Chablais Elevates Standards in Traditional Japanese Archery

In the disciplined world of Kyūdō—the traditional Japanese art of the bow—progress is measured not just by the arrow hitting the target, but by the spiritual and technical refinement of the practitioner. The Kyudo Chablais club has recently reached another significant milestone with a member achieving the prestigious 3rd Dan, a testament to the rigorous training and dedication fostered within the association.

For those unfamiliar with the discipline, Kyūdō is far more than a sport; it is a meditative practice where the process of the shot is as vital as the result. Achieving a 3rd Dan indicates a high level of proficiency and a deep commitment to the “way of the bow,” marking a transition toward advanced mastery within the France Kyudo framework.

A Foundation of Excellence in the Chablais Region

Founded in October 2001, the Kyudo Chablais association has spent over two decades establishing itself as a pillar of traditional Japanese archery. The club currently supports 27 members, showcasing a diverse demographic that ranges in age from 12 to 81 years. This wide age gap reflects the universal appeal of the art, while the club maintains a strong gender parity among its practitioners.

The association’s commitment to the art extends beyond individual practice. For more than 10 years, Kyudo Chablais has organized annual tournaments and international seminars, ensuring that the local community in the Chablais region remains connected to the global standards of the practice. The club also actively promotes the martial art through public demonstrations at sports festivals and other community events.

Breaking New Ground: The Youth Section

Perhaps the most innovative aspect of Kyudo Chablais is its dedication to the next generation. In September 2021, the association launched a youth section for practitioners aged 12 to 17. This initiative was a global first outside of Japan, marking a significant shift in how the art is disseminated internationally.

Currently, the youth section consists of seven members—five girls and two boys. The efficacy of this program is already evident in the results; one of these young practitioners achieved the 2nd Dan at just 12 years of age. By integrating youth into the practice, the club is ensuring the longevity of the art while challenging the traditional notion that Kyūdō is solely a pursuit for adults.

Expert Leadership and Pedagogy

The success of the club’s members is rooted in the expertise of its teaching staff. Kyudo Chablais is led by a team of certified instructors who provide the technical oversight necessary for members to ascend the Dan rankings:

• Pascal Colmaire: A member of the France Kyudo Committee and a Certified Instructor holding the 5th Dan.
• Robert Willet: A practitioner holding the 3rd Dan.
• Jean-Marc Emeras: A Certified Instructor holding the 3rd Dan.
• Loréna Lippis: A Certified Instructor holding the 2nd Dan.

This depth of leadership ensures that students have access to a variety of perspectives and a high standard of technical correction, which is essential for the demanding grading processes associated with Japanese archery.

A Year of Sustained Momentum

The recent 3rd Dan achievement is part of a broader trend of success for the club throughout 2025 and into early 2026. The association has seen a steady stream of advancements and recognition:

• August 2025: Three members—Claudia, Maxence, and Camille—attained new grades following a dedicated preparation stage.
• December 2025: The club celebrated a strong finish to the year with eight members receiving rewards for their progress.
• March 2026: The club continued to engage the public with discovery sessions focused on the traditional aspects of the bow.

This momentum suggests that Kyudo Chablais is not only maintaining its standards but is actively expanding its influence. The club is currently exploring projects for exchanges with Japan, aiming to provide its members with direct experience of the art’s birthplace.

As the association continues to grow, its focus remains on the philosophy that “mille flèches ou dix mille, chacune doit être nouvelle” (a thousand arrows or ten thousand, each must be new). This mindset of perpetual beginning is what allows members to continue climbing the ranks, whether they are 12 or 81.

The association continues to promote the spirit of Kyūdō, noting that international interest has been bolstered in recent years by cultural representations such as the anime Tsurune, which accurately depicts the spirit of the practice.

With a strong foundation of certified instructors and a pioneering approach to youth education, Kyudo Chablais remains a leading center for traditional Japanese archery in France. The club’s next milestones will likely involve the fruition of their planned exchanges with Japan.

Do you practice traditional archery or follow the growth of martial arts in Europe? Share your thoughts in the comments below.