"Iai" is one of the martial arts using a Japanese sword. Having started from the end of the Sengoku period to the beginning of the Edo period, this martial art is also said to be the basis of Bushido, the samurai code of chivalry. Now introducing, the Iai training you can experience at Musashi-Kan Dojo, located in the heart of Kumamoto City. Even beginners can feel free to join, so why not give it a try, and immerse yourself in the culture and spirit of samurai?

From sword handling to deciding your steps and breathing techniques, you can learn Iaido all in one lesson, which will polish your samurai etiquette while touching upon its spirituality. This martial art was also used to train samurai in modesty and manners.
Starting with the sword sheathed in its scabbard, the moment you withdraw it is the key point, since you expect to defeat your opponent in one blow. From unsheathing the sword from its scabbard, to putting it back in afterward, importance is placed on the chain of movement.
 

Unlike fencing, Iaido does not involve facing off against an opponent. One reason for its appeal is that, by placing more emphasis on Iai's martial arts technique, anyone can take this class, regardless of age or gender.

You will be initiated in this Iai Experience by Mr. Tetsunori Matsunaga. This incredible teacher is the 18th generation head of Niten Ichiryu, established by world-famous swordsman, Musashi Miyamoto!

The sword techniques of the Niten Ichiryu school were developed by Musashi Miyamoto, who completed it in his later years as a recluse living in a cave called Reigando, located in Kumamoto City. The philosophy behind Niten Ichiryu was explained in Miyamoto's "Gorin-no-Sho" (The Book of Five Rings).
Let Matsunaga-Sensei, the sword master of Niten Ichiryu, initiate you in Iai!
 

The Iai Experience with Matsunaga-Sensei lasts about 90 minutes. After entering a Japanese tatami room, you will change into the Iai costume of Hakama, a formal wide-legged divided long skirt.
For many overseas visitors, it may be the first time for you to see Hakama, let alone wear it. However, along with exact instructions in how to wear Hakama, you will also receive help if you need it, so you can easily put on this garment.

What's even better, are the free Matcha tea and Japanese sweets that you will receive with this lesson! Please take a moment to savor the flavor of a traditional Japanese treat in your Hakama.

A variety of Hakama sizes and patterns are available. Just by changing into this costume, you can travel back in time to the days of samurai!

Once you are ready, move to the Dojo.
Before the Iai Experience begins, Matsunaga-Sensei will put on a sample performance. It's a rare treat to see a professional sword master perform, and his gripping show of overwhelming force is one you'll always remember!
 

Now your Iai Experience is about to start!
After learning the basics of Iai and tips for holding and wielding your sword, you will actually take it out.

Concentrating on your movement, quickly pull the sword from its scabbard while yelling, "Ei!", just like a samurai.
Both your shape and form will look so cool!
Return the sword to its scabbard, or practice swinging it. Individual instruction lets you try out various Iai techniques and movements.

When the experience ends, you will receive a certificate of completion with your name written on it, and "tenugui", a traditional Japanese hand towel.
You may also have your photo taken, so be sure to save this image of your samurai persona.

★The Iai Experience Flow (approximately 90 minutes)★
1) Change into Hakama, then savor Matcha tea and Japanese sweets
2) Learn about the basics and the rules of Bushido
3) The Iai Experience and Master Performance
4) Take photos and receive a Certificate of Completion
 

Nihon Iai Renmei (Japan Iai Association), Kumamoto Branch, Musashi-Kan
Musashi Building, Shimotori 1-6-4, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Japan
*About 7 minutes on foot from Kumamoto Castle
Condition of participation: Age 16 and older
Online Reservation Website (English is OK) at "Attractive Japan" is HERE