Iaidō (居合道) is a Japanese martial art associated with the smooth, controlled movements of drawing the sword from its scabbard, striking or cutting an opponent, removing blood from the blade, and then replacing the sword in the scabbard.

The following was written by Grandmaster S.L. Martin, Hung, Jin, Hu:

Bathed in antiquity, the feudal weapon of close quarter combat known as a “sword” has found a permanent place in the history of ancient and modern warfare.  Found and used as a weapon on six of the seven continents, the sword found itself being used as the premier weapon from the Bronze Age to the modern age of steel metallurgy.

No sword however, has instilled more fascination, mystique, and code of honor in its owner, the Sword of Bushido – “The Katana” of Japan.  Known throughout Asia as the primary weapon of the “Bushi”, or warrior class, the Japanese sword was revered, as the weapon believes to contain the soul of the person who wielded it.

The art, craftsmanship and lethal power of the “katana” still instills awe and amazement to modern practitioners of the modern arts of Iaido and Kendo.  The sword still carries an air of respect relative to its tradition, as swords are continually being used at many military ceremonies and graduation exercises.

The tradition of the sword, and its use as both a weapon and a symbol, has far outlived the deeds of the warriors whose skills brought the weapon to such prominence.  Our goal and mission as modern warriors is to perpetuate the code by which those great masters lived.

 

 

Tiger Family Iaido Pictures