Sixteen years in kendo, and Amarin Zeltner calls it a school of life.
Way of Life #8, “A School of Life”, is a portrait of Amarin Zeltner (4-dan · 16 years in kendo) at Budokan Zürich. What follows is transcribed from the subtitles of the film — Amarin Zeltner’s own words, in the order they are spoken, under the chapters of the film.
Kendo, for me, is a community. And a school of life — I learn from the sensei, and from everyone here.
The day of swords
The very first practice, actually. That was 16 years ago. As a small boy, sword fighting looked so cool.
From the first practice on, I knew it was for me. I really enjoyed it.
A school of life
I'm more calm in everyday life, because of kendo. All the lessons here — a balance with everyday life.
A door to Japan
In the beginning, it was just a normal sport. Then came the etiquette and ceremony — I loved those too. Studying architecture now, I love traditional Japanese building. Kendo brought the whole of Japanese culture into my world.
To Tokyo, spring 2027
I just want to get to know kendoka in Japan. To know what's important for them, in their lives.
My university nominated me — I'm going to Todai in spring 2027.
About this series
Way of Life is a series of short portraits of people who live the way, filmed by KAIDO Inc. in dojos across Europe and Japan. One person, one word, a few minutes.