SHINMYOKEN
IAIDO &
IAIJUTSU
THE ART OF DRAWING A SWORD IN AN INSTANT
AND DISPATCHING AN ENEMY SWIFTLY AND CLEANLY.
A necessary part of the samurai’s life, but not practical for modern times.
Iaido is the study of polishing one's-self, cutting down the demons within;
Iaijutsu studies the manner by which an enemy is dispatched.
There is always some Iaido in Iaijutsu, and Iaijutsu in Iaido – this is In-Yo. Both studies are valid in the modern world through confidence, preservation, honour and intention without the need for arrogance or ego.
The art is mostly performed solo – a series of kata executing various techniques against single or multiple opponents.
Each kata begins and ends with the sword sheathed.
Students are recommended to practice Kendo to preserve the fighting feeling and it is common for high ranking Kendo players to hold a high rank in Iaido and vice versa.
Students will also practice partner kata (Tachi uchi no Kata, Tachi uchi no Kurai and Tsumeai no Kurai).
Unlike Kendo, Iaido is never practised in a free-sparring manner.
The style we follow is Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaijutsu – Yamauchi-ha;
as taught by the late Honda Masayoshi Sensei, Jyushin Jyuku (Kongen no Maki) of the Nihon Roshukai Dojo, Adachi-ku, Tokyo.
His teacher was Onoue Sensei, 20th Soke of the style. This line recognises Onoue Sensei as the last Soke of the Yamauchi-ha.
We also practice Seitei-gata as governed by the All Japan Kendo Federation.
You must join the British Kendo Association (BKA) via their online membership page, which is the governing body,
part of the EKF/FIK and the main All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF).
If you are interested, please contact us by clicking here.
The Shinmyoken Club is run by a senior 5th Dan, and the club has been established since 1993.
Within the club there are a number of senior grades – one is a direct student of Honda Masayoshi Sensei and a member of
the Nihon Roshukai Dojo, Adachi-ku in Tokyo – practicing and teaching Seitei Iaido, Koryu Iaijutsu and Koryu Kenjutsu Kumitachi sets,
rarely seen outside of Japan.
WHEN & WHERE
TUESDAYS – 19:30-21:00
Riddell Memorial Hall, Deans Lane, Walton-on-the-Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7UL
You must be over 18 years old to study iaido/iaijutsu at Shinmyoken.
Beginner and experienced students are always welcome.
If it is your first time to visit us, please contact us before coming by clicking here.