From the Japanese Budo Association, the All Japan Kendo Federation and MEXT.
Kendo began with fighting with the Japanese sword. Then came a time of practicing set forms (kata) with wooden swords.
In the middle of the Edo period, around the 18th century, the shinai and protective gear were made and improved. With them came a way of training in which people could really strike each other and hold matches. This led to the practice and matches of kendo today.
The kendo guide describes kendo as a tradition that found new value in each age: the fighting skill of the Warring States period, the art of the Edo period, and the sport since the end of the Edo period.
In kendo, both players wear protective gear and strike set target areas with the shinai. A good strike that scores is called yuko-datotsu.
The targets are the head (men), the wrists (kote), the body (do) and the throat (tsuki). In the guide for young people, the thrust to the throat is not allowed for students up to junior high school.
A strike scores when it is made with full spirit and good posture, hits the target with the striking part of the shinai along the true line of the blade, and is followed by zanshin, staying alert after the strike.
When striking, players call out the target, such as “Men!” or “Kote!”
On March 20, 1975, the All Japan Kendo Federation set out the idea of kendo: kendo is a way of building character through training in the principles of the sword. (This is our translation.)
It also set out how to train: learn kendo seriously, train body and mind, value good manners, keep faith and be sincere, keep working on yourself, love your country and society, and so help the peace and well-being of people everywhere.
Japan revised its Basic Act on Education in 2006. From the 2012 school year, martial arts (budo) became required for both boys and girls in junior high school physical education.
In the Course of Study made in 2017, all students in the 1st and 2nd years of junior high school take every area of PE, including budo. In the 3rd year, students choose ball games or budo, or both.
In budo classes, students choose one of judo, kendo and sumo. Schools may also teach karate, naginata, kyudo, aikido, shorinji kempo, jukendo and others.
In kendo classes, students use basic movements and techniques to strike and block in simple matches. They also learn to respect their partner and keep the traditional ways of behaving.
There is no single right answer. Talking it over with someone at home is a good way to learn.