Ali Zolfaghari is an Iranian-born, Mexico-based kyudo instructor. He has been learning the way of the bow for nearly 30 years and giving classes for over two decades.

The Japanese art of kyudo is very different from a sport. The real aim is not to hit the target or defeat the opponent but to master one’s inner self. Kyudo requires profound concentration and has long been called ‘standing Zen’ because of it. Every movement is strictly codified, from the way the archer enters the range to the way the arrow is fired. It takes years of practice to master kyudo, and despite obtaining the 4^th Dan, Zolfaghari-sensei feels like he is only just beginning to grasp it.

A fan of Akira Kurosawa’s films, Ali Zolfaghari took an interest to Japanese martial arts from a very young age. Originally driven by a desire to pursue karate, he spent 11 years living in Japan, where he discovered kyudo and met his future wife. After getting married, Zolfaghari-sensei moved to Mexico and founded Kyudo Kai Association in 2003.

Finding a suitable space for kyudo practice in Mexico City has been quite a challenge. Kodokan dojo may be large and centric, but it only allows for taihai (formal movement) and kata (form) drills, using a short-distance makiwara (traditional straw or foam target). To practice shooting from the standard 28-meter distance, Zolfaghari-sensei takes his students to an outdoor Olympic-size shooting range. These extended monthly sessions conclude in a formal gathering that fosters the collective spirit of kyudo. If you want to learn more about traditional Japanese archery or Kyudo Kai, please visit their website.