Acknowledgements

Victor Harris (1942-2017)

Having begun kendo in England, Victor travelled to Japan, living there for three years.  He continued his studies of kendo under the famous teacher, Dr Itoh Kyoitsu at the prestigous Seijudo Dojo.  Victor was one of the very few westerners to be granted a teaching licence in Ono Ha Itto Ryu.

Victor brought "A Book of Five Rings" to the attention of the West, publishing his translation into English in 1974.  Victor was an acknowledged expert on old and modern Japanese culture and swordsmanship, and was a familiar and revered figure on the international lecture circuit.

Victor was Secretary of the British Kendo Association, a President of the European Kendo Federation, and a Vice-President of the International Kendo Federation.  In 2008 he was the recipient of the Japan Foreign Minister's Commendation.

Victor Harris was Keeper of the Department of Japanese Antiquities in the British Museum and a world authority on Japanese swords.

Victor was head and chief instructor of Nenriki Kendo Dojo in London for forty years.  A truly extraordinary man.