40-Minute Iaido Demonstration & Samurai Show

"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.

~About Demonstration & Samurai Show~
First visit the only iai shrine in Japan that enshrines iai's founder, Hayashizaki Shigenobu. Then enjoy an unforgettable iai performance and commentary by Master Swordsman Yoshihiro Abe.

[Time Required] 40 minutes (Morning Session: 10:00, Afternoon Session: 13:30~)
[Price] 55,000 yen (tax included) / group　※ Available for audience of 1-40 people.

【Experience Flow】
1. Change into iaido uniform.
2. Visit to Hayashizaki Iai-Jinja Shrine.
3. Learn about the history of iaido.
4. Enjoy the teachers' iaido demonstration.
5. View an authentic cutting demonstration of the Abe school's Ito-ryu Soke style!
6. Take a commemorative photo.

* Clothing: Please dress in warm clothes during winter.