The All Japan Kendo Federation, the bedrock foundation of modern Kendo, has produced document called ''Meaning of Kendo''. It's intended to explain and emphasize the values of Kendo as a contemporary martial art.

The purpose of practicing Kendo is:

To mold the mind and body,
To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
And through correct and rigid training,
To strive for Improvement in the art of Kendo;
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor,
To associate with others with sincerity,
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
Thus will one be able to love his country and society,
To contribue to the development of culture,
And to promote peace and prosperity among all people.