Overview
Step into the world of Mugai Ryū Iaidō and discover a tradition where mastery begins not with defeating others,but with overcoming oneself.
Often described as "Moving Zen," Iaidō is a Japanese martial discipline that cultivates clarity, composure,and presence through precise movement and focused awareness.
For over 340 years, Mugai Ryū has transmitted not only sword techniques, but also a philosophy of personal growth rooted in discipline, humility, and self-reflection.
Your experience begins in stillness. After changing into traditional training attire, you will participate in a brief Zen meditation practice,
using breath and posture to settle the mind before action.
You will then be introduced to the spirit of the Samurai and the principles of Bushidō, exploring how warriors sought not only technical skill,
but also character, responsibility, and consideration for others.
Under the guidance of Takeda Hōgyoku, President of the International Iaidō Federation Hōgyokukai, you will learn the etiquette, movements,
and handling of the Japanese sword.
Using a practice sword, you will experience cutting exercises and learn one authentic kata passed down through the Mugai Ryū tradition.
In Japanese culture, kata is not merely technique.
Like the forms of tea ceremony or flower arrangement, it is a refined expression of beauty, discipline, and intention.
Through repeated practice, participants discover how external movement reflects internal condition.
The experience concludes with demonstrations of advanced cutting techniques, paired sword forms, self-defense applications,
and traditional kata performed by senior instructors.
More than a martial arts lesson, this is an introduction to Iaidō
— the Way of the Sword, where stillness gives rise to action, and true victory begins with self-mastery.
◆Hougyoku Takeda / Chairman of the International Iaido Federation Hougyokukai.
7th-dan Kyoshi license holder in Mugai Shinden Mugai-ryu Iaido Hyodo. Board member of the Iaido Association.
The Way of the Sword:Clarity, Presence, and Self-Mastery
Select the date & Reservation
This plan is a request reservation. It is not confirmed until we check availability and send a confirmation notice.
Location
「International Iaido Organization Hogyokukai Grand Headquarters Dojo」
SCOP21 Bldg. 3F, 4-20-10 Kuramae, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0051, Japan
Price
The price covers iaidō lecture(history & philosophy), traning, rental uniforms, certificate and taxes.
Transportation costs are not included.
If you require transportation arrangements, please specify your request in the remarks section of the application form.
Schedule
10:00 AM — Change into Training Attire
Prepare for the experience by changing into traditional dōgi.
10:10 AM — Zazen Meditation
Begin with stillness, using breath and posture to cultivate focus and awareness.
10:20 AM — Introduction to the Samurai Spirit
Explore Bushidō, self-mastery, and the philosophy behind Mugai Ryū Iaidō.
10:50 AM — Sword Etiquette and Fundamentals
Learn proper sword handling, posture, and traditional etiquette.
11:00 AM — Cutting Practice with a Training Sword
Experience the fundamentals of cutting and symbolic self-transformation.
11:10 AM — Learn a Traditional Kata
Practice an authentic Mugai Ryū kata passed down for generations.
11:30 AM — Live Cutting Demonstration by Takeda Sensei
Witness advanced cutting techniques performed with a live blade.
11:40 AM — Self-Defense Applications
Discover practical principles derived from traditional swordsmanship.
11:45 AM — Kumitachi (Paired Sword Forms)
Observe partner forms that cultivate timing, awareness, and mutual respect.
11:50 AM — Advanced Kata Demonstration
Experience the elegance and precision of traditional forms.
11:55 AM — Certificate Presentation
Receive a certificate of completion.
12:00 PM — Q&A, Photos, and Change of Clothes
12:30 PM — Program Concludes
Leave with a renewed sense of focus, discipline, and self-mastery.
※The start time is flexible. Please let me know what time works best for you
Dress Code
No dress cord.
For the Iaido experience, you will wear the traditional uniform we provide.
Please let us know your height and clothing size when you apply.
Payment
Payment in advance / Credit card JPY only
Booking deadline
Booking must be made at least 7 days before the experience date
Cancellation policy
・From 20 days prior to the experience date: 20% of the total experience fee
・From 14 days prior: 25%
・From 7 days prior: 50%
・From 1 days prior: 100%
Cancellation fees are calculated based on the scheduled experience date.
Further remarks
Please let us know in advance if you have any iaidō experience.
For those experiencing it for the first time, we will provide easy training and guidance tailored to your needs.
No alcohol permitted before joining.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, programs or workshops are subject to last-minute changes and cancellations.
If you are more than 30 minutes late without prior notice on the day of your appointment, it will be automatically canceled.
In such cases, no refund will be issued.
Select the date & Reservation
This plan is a request reservation. It is not confirmed until we check availability and send a confirmation notice.