[Explanation] Kendama Certification Guide | Japan Kendama Association and GLOKEN
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The other day Momoken ( I participated in a practice session hosted by Cafe Hyakuji in Kasugai City.
It was an extremely hot midsummer day, but there were more participants than last time and the event was a lot of fun!
I started playing Kendama seriously three months ago and passed the Advanced Level 3 Kendama Proficiency Test!
Considering my usual level, I was very lucky to pass, but next I'll be trying for Advanced Level 2!
The Kendama Certification Examination is a good goal for improving your Kendama skills, but there are two main types of examinations in Japan, which we will explain briefly below.
[Explanation] Kendama Certification Guide | Japan Kendama Association and GLOKEN
Below are the official links for each organization.
1. Summary of official links for each organization
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Japan Kendama Association (JKA)
Official website
List of Grade and Rank Exams -
Global Kendama Network (GLOKEN)
Test formula
2. About the Japan Kendama Association (JKA) Certification Examination
■ There are grades and ranks, with the highest rank being 6th dan!
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Grade certification test (10th grade → 1st grade)
10th grade: The first step. Start with basic techniques such as removing plates.
Grade 1: A level where more applied techniques are required and stability is required.
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Rank certification test (Pre-first dan → 6th dan)
Semi-shodan to Shodan: Includes free techniques (creative techniques), so creativity is also evaluated.
2nd to 6th dan: The accuracy, number of times, and speed of the technique are strictly checked. 7th dan and above are awarded only the title of "honorary dan."
■ Details of available models
Only certified competition kendama may be used; no other kendama are permitted.
You will need a Kendama with a certification sticker, and there will be a mandatory check on the day of the exam.
- The standard material is beech. The weight changes slightly when resin is mixed in, so pure beech is officially recommended.
- Representative model example: Yamagata Kobo Ozora series
■ Exam procedure, costs, and points for passing
- Application: Select the test date at a certified test center in your area. Online application and fax application are also available.
- Test implementation: Grades are determined by clearing techniques from "No. 1 to No. 10", and ranks are determined by clearing "applied techniques + free techniques".
- Passing criteria: Pass the test the required number of times for each grade and rank.
- Cost: There are no specific regulations, but it varies depending on the venue, so please check.
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Certificates issued: Certificates for ranks will only be issued to members after passing the exam.
3. About the Global Kendama Network (GLOKEN) Examination
■ Class divisions and target levels
- Medal Challenge (for toddlers and beginners)
- Basic class: The goal is to master basic techniques such as placing plates and stopping.
- Advanced class: Mainly focuses on advanced basic techniques such as airplanes and globe spinning.
- Expert Class: Try out expert-level tricks!
- Master Class: Take on the challenge with professionally honed skills!
■ You can try it with your favorite Kendama!
You are free to use any Kendama you like. Not only can you learn the technique, but you can also enjoy choosing the shape and paint to your liking.
However, the basic shape of three plates, one tip, and one ball hole is required.
■ Examination method and rules
- Qualified examiners administer the exam at various Kendama spots. Examiner qualifications can be obtained by either completing the Kendama Teacher training course or by graduating from junior high school and passing the Advanced level or higher and obtaining an ID.
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The criteria for passing are as follows. Please refer to the GLOKEN website for details.
-To pass, you need to succeed in one technique from each level once out of five times.
・Starting class is free.
・The test is given once a day, but after passing, you can take the test for higher classes on the same day.
- Skipping grades within a class is prohibited, and students take the exams in order, starting from Level 3.
4. FANKEN Manager's Selection: 7 Models for Certification
[Kendama certified by the Japan Kendama Association]
① Yamagata Kobo Ozora Matte Light Blue & Yellow : Matte painted grip supports play
②Yamagata Kobo Ozora Premium Series Blue & Silver : Two-tone color for improved visibility
[ GLOKEN Kendama Examination】
In addition to the above
3. KROM POP LOL Sticky Series : Easy to use for beginners and easy to perform stationary moves
④ OKENDAMA Candy Series : Large Ken and Rush Paint for excellent operability
⑤ KENDAMA USA Kaizen Kendama Triple Split: Good visibility and jet shape support your play.
⑥ Lotus Black Bloom : A popular series featuring the THE BLOOM shape
⑦ KENDAMA ISRAEL TETRAH & The HOG Ken : Israel is recommended for discerning players!
Other items are not available at FANKEN.
Sweets Kendamas SWEETS Series
Iwata Woodwork MUGEN MUSOU - RAINBOW Series
Highly recommended too!
6. Finally: A message from the store manager
How was it?
The "Certification Exam" is not just an exam, but a great event where you can visualize your goals and share them with your friends. The FANKEN store manager will also be taking on the Kendama Certification Exam!