2-Hour Iaido Samurai Experience in Yamagata

"Iaido" is the technique of quickly drawing and responding to attacks with a Japanese sword. Iaido is a foundation of Japanese warrior philosophy and training. This important technique was created at Hayashizaki Iai-jinja Shrine in Murayama City, Yamagata Prefecture. The shrine is said to be the birthplace of Iaido, and the most important iai shrine in Japan.

During the Warring States period and early Edo period, most people believed that a sword’s only purpose was to hurt others. However, new ideas developed through iaido which focused on spiritual training, improving skills and personal growth. This “way” (“do”) of the “warrior” (“bushi”) has come to be called “Bushido”, a philosophy that attracted attention from both Japan and overseas.

～ Samurai Sword Drawing Experience ～
First participants will visit the only Iai Shrine in Japan that enshrines Iai's founder, Hayashizaki Shigenobu. Next an expert instructor will lead participants in "Shohatto," the basic forms of sword handling. Then participants can experience holding a real sword and using it to try cutting tatami rice mats.

[Time Required] 2 hours (Morning Session: 10:00-12:00, Afternoon Session: 13:30-15:30)

[Experience Flow]
1. Change into iaido uniform.
2. Visit Hayashizaki Iai-jinja Shrine.
3. Learn about the history of iaido.
4. View the instructor's iaido demonstration.
5. Learn and practice the basics of iaido.
6. Test cutting experience (with tatami rice mats).
7. Take a commemorative photo.

【Things to Bring】
In the experience, you will wear a practice uniform but your feet need to be bare to grip the floor. Please bring leggings or underwear that allow your feet to be free.