Shinobi: Concealment and Blade Deception
Shinobi, meaning to conceal or hide, is a foundational principle in Japanese sword fighting. The practitioner draws the blade and hides it alongside the scabbard, allowing an enemy to believe the weapon remains sheathed before executing a sudden cut. This technique exemplifies the deceptive aspects of the art.
Philosophy of Iaido: Protection Over Destruction
Despite its aggressive appearance, iaido prioritizes protecting human life rather than taking it. The art developed with the intention of helping practitioners respond to threats through disciplined technique rather than lethal intent.
Kyshaku: The Executioner's Technique
Kyshaku is a historically significant samurai technique analogous to a second in a pistol duel, used to perform ritual executions or assist those committing harakiri. The practitioner measures the target's neck position, executes a precise cut, and returns the blade to the scabbard using tactile feel rather than visual reference—a uniquely Japanese innovation.
Sadusawa no Suki: Stabbing Through the Ribs
Sadusawa no Suki, named after a pond in Nara, employs an unusual name to obscure its true purpose from adversaries. The technique involves drawing the blade and executing a stabbing motion while rotating the blade sideways to penetrate between the ribs.
Chiono Sabaki: Defensive Wrist Cut and Counterattack
Chiono Sabaki addresses a choking attack by turning sideways to face the aggressor, cutting the wrist, and following with a head strike before returning the blade to the scabbard. Like Western gunslinger techniques, the entire sequence is executed with speed and efficiency.
Inazuma Uchi: Multiple Opponent Engagement
Inazuma Uchi, the lightning strike, addresses combat against two simultaneous enemies. The practitioner cuts down the first opponent, transitions to the second, executes a fatal cut, and returns the blade to the scabbard in continuous motion.
Shidare Yanagi: The Weeping Willow Defense
Shidare Yanagi, or the shadow of the weeping willow, employs an obscure name to conceal its tactical function. When attacked from the right, the practitioner blocks, cuts through the ribs, and executes a head strike before resheathing.
Mickey Sou Gon Me: Three-Directional Defense
Mickey Sou Gon Me addresses three simultaneous attackers positioned front, right, and rear. The practitioner inverts the blade grip to cut across the chest of the front attacker, transitions to stab the rear opponent through the ribs, and executes a final cut to the frontal threat.
Tachihwaza: Standing Techniques and Variations
Tachihwaza refers to standing sword techniques distinct from seated positions. Advanced applications include defending against arm grabs while seated, countering overhead scabbard attacks, and executing strikes in confined spaces such as narrow hallways where conventional blade drawing is impractical.
Iaido Practice Philosophy and Absence of Competition
Iaido emphasizes technique over speed and does not employ tournament formats common to karate, judo, or kendo. Training focuses on disciplined transmission of traditional methods rather than competitive application, with practitioners using real swords rather than bamboo weapons.
Japanese Sword Fighting
Key Takeaways
- •Shinobi: Concealment and Blade Deception
- •Philosophy of Iaido: Protection Over Destruction
- •Kyshaku: The Executioner's Technique
- •Sadusawa no Suki: Stabbing Through the Ribs
Japanese sword fighting performance took place at The Raku Art Festival in Chandler AZ. This made for any exciting afternoon.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about japanese sword — kenjutsu-kendo?
This video covers shinobi: concealment and blade deception, philosophy of iaido: protection over destruction, kyshaku: the executioner's technique. It provides detailed instruction from Jed Cossonay.
How long does it take to learn japanese sword — kenjutsu-kendo?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing japanese sword — kenjutsu-kendo?
Tachihwaza refers to standing sword techniques distinct from seated positions. Advanced applications include defending against arm grabs while seated, countering overhead scabbard attacks, and executing strikes in confined spaces such as narrow hallways where conventional blade drawing is impractical.
