The Estonian Naginata Federation (abbreviation EENF) is a voluntary association operating in the public interest as a non-profit organization, the main activity of which is aimed at developing the Japanese martial art of naginata in Estonia.
The Atarashii Naginata in Tallinn began to develop in 2017.
In 2021, the EENF and the Tallinn Naginata Club “Amatsubame Kai” were established. Since 2022, the Estonian Naginata Federation is a member of the European Naginata Federation. Naginata athletes from Estonia participate in international seminars and competitions. EENF organizes naginata seminars in Tallinn with the participation of world-famous naginata sensei, and also conducts competitions and qualifying exams.
OUR DOJO LOCATION : Tallinn, Ed. Vilde tee, 71a
TRAININGS:
Every Sunday 15:30 – 17:00
Contact:
info@naginata.ee
Our symbol is the remarkable high-speed swift,
Amatsubame 雨燕
Naginata
The Soul of the Blade: History and Evolution
The Ancient Origins The Naginata is a traditional Japanese sword that first rose to prominence during the Heian Period (794–1185). This special sword is characterized by its very long wooden hilt and a curved, razor-sharp steel blade. Originally, extended reach of the naginata made it a preferred weapon for the cavalry, allowing mounted warriors to strike with devastating precision.
The Legacy of the Rider The influence of the cavalry remains visible even today in our traditional training attire. The Hakama we wear — wide, pleated trousers — were specifically designed for riding horses. Even the complex way we tie the Himo (belts) of the Hakama is a technique inherited from the samurai; it was meant to ensure the trousers stayed perfectly in place during the intense movement of high-speed riding. Every time we dress for practice, we honor the functional heritage of the ancient Japanese horsemen.
A Masterpiece of Balance and Versatility It soon became clear that the Naginata was a remarkably universal weapon. Perfectly counterbalanced, it allowed a single warrior to control dozens of square meters on the battlefield. Its design allows for rotations, sweeping strikes, and even throwing. If the naginata was damaged in battle, parts of the broken naginata could serve as independent weapons or could still be used as effective tools for self-defense.
The Warriors of the Long Sword The mastery of the Naginata was not limited to one class. It was the chosen weapon for a diverse array of figures in Japanese history: – The elite Samurai – The formidable Sohei (warrior monks) and the ascetic Yamabushi (mountain hermits). – The Ashigaru (infantrymen) and even the elusive Shinobi.
From Battlefield to Spirit As the nature of warfare changed, the Naginata transitioned from a weapon of war to a symbol of status and protection. It became the signature defense of women in samurai families (Onna-musha), who mastered the art to protect their homes and honor. Over centuries of peace, the focus shifted from taking life to cultivating the self, transforming the “technical use of the sword” into a “way of the spirit.”
Atarashii Naginata: The Modern Path Today, this legacy continues through Atarashii Naginata (Modern Naginata). Established after World War II, this discipline integrates the ancient fencing techniques with modern athletic principles. While the battlefield is gone, the essence of the sword remains: every movement in Atarashii Naginata is focus, harmony between body and mind and a search for perfect timing.
Equipment
Uniform
White Keikogi, black Hakama, white Obi
Treening weapons
Shiai Naginata
For regular training and full-contact sparring, we use the Shiai Naginata. It is designed for safety and durability:
The Shaft (Habu) : Crafted from solid oak for a sturdy grip.
The Blade (Ebu) : A flexible, replaceable tip made of bamboo.
Assembly (Sendanmaki) : The shaft and blade are securely fastened together with white elastic adhesive tape.
Kata Naginata
For practicing the Zen Nihon No Kata (official forms), we use a different version. This Naginata is carved entirely from oak, providing the authentic weight and balance required for formal kata performance.
Equipment for Tendo-ryu
In Tendo-ryu we follow a comprehensive system of classical fencing that utilizes traditional wooden weapons crafted from solid oak.
Training with these wooden replicas allows us to master the precise techniques, preserving the sophisticated martial science of a true Koryu (classical school).
Naginata (Long pole-sword) Tachi (Long sword) Kodachi (Short sword) Jo (Short staff) Kusarigama (Chain-sickle) Tanto (Dagger)
Bogu armor is the form of Your presence in the moment of truth
Atarashii Naginata is a sophisticated, full-contact martial art. Once the basic techniques are mastered, the practitioner transitions to Shiai (sparring) — the “moment of truth”, when theory meets practice. Traditional protective armor known as Bogu is essential for the sparring. Putting on the armor is a meditative ritual, performed while Seiza (kneeling position), honoring the equipment that allows our bodies to “think” under pressure. The components of Bogu are donned in a specific, mindful order:
Tare (Thigh guards): Protecting the lower body, with a Zekken (chevron) on the central section
Sune-ate (Shin guards): Essential for the unique low strikes of Naginata.
Do (Cuirass): A shield for the torso, providing a solid core.
Men (Helmet): Worn over a traditional Tenugui (headband) to focus the mind and protect the head.
Kote (Gloves): Protecting the hands while maintaining the flexibility needed for complex movements to control the naginata.
Tendo-ryu (天道流), meaning the “School of the Heavenly Way”, is one of the most respected classical martial arts (Koryu) of Japan. Founded in 1582 by Saito Hangan Denkibo Katsuhide, it has a history spanning over four centuries. Originally a school of swordsmanship, it evolved into a profound system where the Naginata became its most distinctive soul.
Living Tradition in Estonia
Tendo-ryu was first introduced in Estonia by Sensei Takami Matsumoto Tanner in 2022. Since then, our community has flourished, with dedicated seminars organized in 2023, 2025, and 2026. Our team is honored to be guided by our Tendo-ryu instructor, Jakob Ryngen (Sweden). Furthermore, the President of our Federation is a proud member of the renowned Bitokukai club, ensuring a direct link to the authentic teachings of the school.
Practice at Our Dojo
In our dojo, we conduct Tendo-ryu training alongside Atarashii Naginata sessions. We believe in the harmony between the modern sport and the classical roots of the art.
Note: You can find the list of specialized training equipment for Tendo-ryu in the “Equipment” section of our website.
FAQ
1. Is Naginata practice safe?
Absolutely. Safety is our foundation. In Atarashii Naginata, we use specialized protective gear called Bogu (armor) and a wooden shaft with a bamboo blade (Habu). This allows us to practice full-contact strikes with precision without the risk of injury.
2. Do I need to be flexible or have a martial arts background?
No prior experience or extreme flexibility is required. Naginata movements are natural and ergonomic. We start with basic footwork (Ashisabaki) and posture, gradually building your coordination and strength.
3. Is there an age limit for starting?
Naginata is a lifelong art. In Japan, it is practiced by everyone from schoolchildren to masters in their 80s. As long as you can move comfortably, you are welcome to join our practice.
4. Is it physically painful?
No. Unlike some other combat arts, Naginata focuses on “effective strike” (Yuko-datotsu) rather than brute force. While the training is a good workout, it is not designed to be painful. The focus is on timing and the “Spirit-Sword-Body” unity.
5. What should I wear for my first Naginata sessions?
You can train in a T-shirt and long sweatpants. Beginners typically train in sportswear for about a year. Then, you can acquire the traditional uniform: keikogi and hakama. We’ll be happy to explain how. There are many online stores that sell clothing and equipment for budo training, and there are also some shops in Tallinn.
6. Why do we practice Naginata barefoot?
Practicing barefoot is a core tradition in Japanese martial arts, but it also has a functional purpose. It allows for a better grip on the wooden floor (Tabi or Tatami), providing the stability and balance needed for swift footwork. Moreover, walking barefoot helps develop a direct connection with your center of gravity and improves your overall posture. In our dojo, we ensure the floor is clean and safe for all practitioners.
7. How long does it take to see progress in Naginata?
You will feel the balance and rhythm of the sword after the very first lesson. However, Naginata is a “way”, not a destination. Mastery takes years, but every step of the journey is rewarding.
8. How does theNaginata ranking system work?
In Naginata, we follow a traditional grading system to track your progress and mastery: Kyu Levels (Beginner to Intermediate): There are 6 Kyu levels, starting from 6th Kyu (beginner) and progressing down to 1st Kyu (highest student rank). Dan Levels (Advanced): After 1st Kyu, practitioners can test for Dan ranks. There are 5 Dan levels in modern Naginata, representing different stages of technical and spiritual mastery. Unlike some other martial arts, there are no colored belts in Naginata. Your rank is a reflection of your internal growth and technical skill, recognized by the Federation.
9.I’m not interested in competitions or wearing armor. Can I still practice Naginata?
Yes, absolutely. While sparring in armor (Bogu) is a part of Atarashii Naginata, it is by no means the only path. We offer a rich variety of practices that focus on form, precision, and internal discipline: Kata & Kihon: Many practitioners focus entirely on the beauty and technical perfection of forms without ever entering a competitive match. Tendo-ryu (Classical School): For those seeking a deeper connection to the roots of the sword, our Tendo-ryu sessions are ideal. This classical school focuses on traditional forms and ancient techniques rather than sports competition.
10. Are there exams and belts in Tendo-ryu?
Unlike modern martial arts, the classical school of Tendo-ryu does not follow a standard exam or belt system. Progress is recognized through mastery of the school’s curriculum. This allows students to focus entirely on their personal development and the art itself, free from the pressure of grades or certificates.
11. What languages are used during Naginata training?
Our dojo is a multicultural environment where we speak Estonian, English and Russian. However, regardless of the conversational language, all technical terminology and commands in Naginata are strictly in Japanese. This universal language of the sword allows our students to feel at home in any dojo around the world and ensures that the authentic spirit of the tradition is preserved.
12. Do I need to buy my own Naginata immediately?
No, there is no rush. Our dojo provides club Naginatas for all beginners. You can use our equipment until you feel confident and ready to invest in your own practice weapon. We will help you choose the right one when the time comes.
13. How can I pay for my training?
We offer flexible payment options for our students. In addition to standard bank transfers, we are officially registered on the Stebby platform. This allows you to use your employer’s health and sports compensation to cover your training fees, making your path in Naginata even more accessible.
