What is Iaido?

Iaido [ee-eye-do] (居合道) is the art of drawing a Japanese sword from its scabbard to obtain advantage over an opponent. The sword is drawn to defend one’s self, to control or to kill an enemy in the most efficient way. Iaido as we know it today probably began with Iizasa Choisai, the founder of the Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu. Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu (1542-1621), like Iizasa Choisai, is reputed to have received a divine inspiration, which led to the development of his art.

Today, Iaido is practiced as a form of Japanese Budo (martial way) and is used as a form of mental and physical discipline, emphasising correct technique and character development. The study of Iaido encourages good posture, balance, co-ordination and flexibility and can be enjoyed by students both young and old.