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the training hall/dojo

Although Kendo can (and should) be part of everyday life, and can be practiced anywhere, formal training normally occurs in a special location known as a dojo. The name signifies a place for learning a Way (Do), and it should be treated with respect. Every dojo will have its own special details of etiquette (reigi), and the process of learning them is a voyage in developing the appropriate respect for the training hall.

Dojo are symbolically divided into zones of higher and lower status. The place of honor in the dojo is variously referred to as the shomen or kamiza. Its location is usually marked by a small shrine of some sort (hence the term kamiza, which means "deity seat"). Shomen are sometimes designated by a display of some sort, often calligraphy. During ceremonies in the dojo, the sensei sits closest to this special area, and students range themselves in rank order, the lowest ranks being farthest from the shomen. When entering and leaving the practice floor proper, you always bow to the shomen as a sign of respect for the art of Kendo.