Kokomo Academy of Martial Arts

 Historically, the samurai of Japan used Kenjutsu as a fighting method. Iaido was developed from Kenjutsu. They were trained to draw their swords and battle their opponents using the quickest and most efficient moves possible. Attention to detail and accuracy were strongly emphasized as the smallest of mistakes could be fatal.

The origins of Muso Jikiden Eishin-Ryu (Peerless, Direct Transmission, True-Faith Style) can be traced back 450 years to Hayashizaki Minamoto Jinsuke Shigenobu (1546-1621) who lived in present day Kanagawa-ken which Kamakura is a part of. He was born in Yamagata-ken, Murayama-shi, Tateoka located in northern Japan. It is said that he wanted to avenge the death of his father and was inspired to create Shinmei Muso-Ryu (Divinity Inspired Unparalled Style) while praying for guidance. Hayashizaki Soke is enshrined at Hayashizaki Iai Jinja the shrine in which he prayed.

Over the last 450 years this style has evolved and has been passed down to different Sokes or Headmasters in charge of maintaining the integrity of the style.

Today, Iaido is taught as a series of small forms or katas. Attention to detail and accuracy are still strongly emphasized. However, modern day students develop these qualities not to prepare for the battlefield, like the samurai, but for their own personal and spiritual development.

Four Fundamentals of Iaido

Nukitsuke: Drawing the sword

Questions? Comments? E-Mail us at kamadojo@att.net. Come in for a free class and a tour of our school.

Kokomo Academy of Martial Arts 3023 South Lafountain St. Kokomo 765-455-1555