Kenjutsu
Structured sword training focused on mechanics, posture, distance, timing, control, and long-term technical growth.
Kenjutsu & Sports Chanbara
Japanese sword training in Phoenix.
Weekend classes for adults, teens and kids. No martial arts experience needed to start.
Watch real student footage
Competition, movement, pressure, and actual students on the
floor.
3 World Championship Winners
2 Black Belts Awarded
3 Years in Operation
20+ Years Experience
Training options
Kenjutsu for structure. Chanbara for live application.
Saboten Kenjutsu keeps the public offering simple: structured sword training, live Chanbara application, and flexible support options when families or individual students need something more specific.
Chanbara
Live movement and safe competitive contact using Sports Chanbara equipment. Chanbara helps students pressure-test timing, range, footwork, entries, and clean finishes.
Kids Chanbara
Saturday morning classes for ages 5 to 12, using foam swords. Safe contact, no punching and no grappling. More about kids classes.
Family Class
A family-focused training option built around movement, basic Sports Chanbara skills, and low-pressure shared practice. Ask about current pricing, availability, and scheduling.
Private Instruction
Targeted one-on-one coaching for focused technical correction, tournament preparation, confidence rebuilding, or extra help with a specific training goal. Ask about current pricing and available times.
Training Culture
Clear standards. Respectful conduct. Room to grow.
Saboten Kenjutsu is a structured, respectful training space. We coach with clear expectations, emotional self-regulation, accountability, partner safety, and steady technical feedback.
Respect on the mat
Students are expected to train seriously, control contact, listen to coaching, and treat training partners with dignity.
Inclusive by design
Saboten Kenjutsu welcomes LGBTQIA+ students and families. Respectful conduct is expected from everyone in the room.
Self-regulation
Training includes learning how to reset after mistakes, manage frustration, make safer choices, and keep improving under pressure.
Weekend schedule
Train hard without rearranging your whole week.
Saboten Kenjutsu currently offers weekend-only classes. The next four weeks are below.
Pricing
Membership options.
Start with the training track that fits your goals. Family Class and Private Instruction are available by arrangement.
Chanbara Full
Chanbara · Month to month
- 8 credits a month
- Both training blocks
- Sparring, gear provided
$175.00 / month
+ $100.00 sign-up
Chanbara Standard
Chanbara · Month to month
- 4 credits a month
- Fundamentals and sparring
- Gear provided
$100.00 / month
+ $100.00 sign-up
Tasai Ryu
Kenjutsu · 12 month commitment
- 40 credits for the term
- Kata, rank, and metal work
- Eight to a class
$200.00 / month
No sign-up fee
Location
Find us on East Thomas Road.
Saboten Kenjutsu trains at AKF Black Belt Academy, inside the 40 Palms plaza in Phoenix. Weekend classes only.
Address
4041 E Thomas Rd, Suite B
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Finding the door
We are inside the 40 Palms plaza, in the AKF Black Belt Academy unit. Look for the AKF signage rather than ours — we share the floor.
Parking
Free parking in the plaza lot in front of the unit.
Looking for AKF?
We share the floor with AKF Black Belt Academy, who run weekday Taekwondo and Hapkido. Visit AKF Black Belt Academy.
When we train
Saturdays and Sundays. Times are on the schedule.
First visit
Arrive about ten minutes early so we can say hello properly and get you set up before class starts.
Questions before you come?
Call 602-516-4907 or email office@sabotenkenjutsu.com.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior martial arts experience?
No. Trial students can start without prior martial arts or sword experience.
What is the difference between Kenjutsu and Chanbara?
Kenjutsu focuses on structured sword mechanics and technical development. Chanbara focuses on live movement, safe contact, timing, and competitive application.
What should I wear to a trial?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing you can move in. Specific equipment expectations can be confirmed during booking.
How do trial classes work?
Reserve a trial, attend the scheduled class, and decide whether the program fits your goals. Trial students should check their confirmation email for class time and arrival details.
Where are you located?
Saboten Kenjutsu trains at AKF Black Belt Academy, 4041 E Thomas Rd, Suite B, Phoenix, AZ 85018, inside the 40 Palms plaza. The location section has a map, parking and directions.