As we try to pursue Iaido,we go into the depths of the world of Iaido. We can find something different from 'sports'. We study how to move our body efficiently and we also value courtesy and cultivating the mind. Sometimes we try Tameshigiri(a trial cutting with a real sword)to master Tenouchi(how to grip a sword).We cut a roll of tatami mat or bamboo.The purpose of trying Tameshigiri is not 'a cutting' but ' a study of cutting'. We practice katas( a form ) with an imagined opponent. We use a well made replica sword in the class. Araki Mujinsai Minamotono Hidetsuna was said to have been of the family of Araki Murashige, a lord in Settsu provence.It is a pity it is not certain when Araki Mujinsai Minamotono Hidetsuna was born and passed away. 'Araki Ryu Kenpou' in Isezaki City,Gunma, 'Araki Ryu Gunyoukogusoku' in Yokohama City,Kanagawa and 'Araki Mujinsai Ryu Iaido' in Himeji and Kobe,Hyogo. Now we can find three forms of Araki Ryu. The style of Araki Ryu reflected the times and gradually was separated into specialized categories.This kind of changing usually happened in other bujutsu.The successors have been studying and trying to find a better way. It was not an independent sword bujutsu,nor an independent spear bujutsu, nor independent jujutsu.Īfter Tokugawa Shogunate ruled Japan, Araki Mujinsai Ryu has been handed down for generations. Araki Mujinsai Ryu Iaido comes from this synthetic bujutsu.Īt first it was a synthetic bujutsu which combined various fighting techniques that were very important on real battle fields. Visitors are welcome to observe.Īraki Mujinsai Minamotono Hidetsuna,the founder, created a synthetic bujutsu in the Eiroku and Tensho periods (late 16th.C.)after he had fought on the battle field. Soft kneepads and a Gi (or loose clothing) are recommended. If you do not have a weapon, let us know we and we may be able to provide one. True devotion to the art can develop a strong spirit, better posture, and stronger control over one's emotions.īring a Boken (wooden practice sword) or Iaito (training sword), but not a live blade. Iaido bestows its gifts only upon the most sincere and serious of students. The sword is a spiritual instrument for controlling the 'self'. Being the fastest with an ineffectual first strike will not do. However, as in the Old West of America, the speed must be controlled. It can rightfully be called the 'FAST DRAW' of the sword since the purpose is to outdraw your opponent and deliver the first effective and possibly fatal stroke.

The concept of Iai is to draw, defend if neccessary, and disable or kill. Unlike Kendo, Iai involves little actual 'fencing'. It was founded in the late 16th century and emphasizes traditional forms and cutting techniques. Contact Us to Visit or Sign Up The Art of Samurai Fast DrawĪraki Mujinsai-ryu Iaido, a koryu (old school) form of Japanese swordsmanship, is a traditional martial art of the samurai.

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