Closest station: 10 minutes on foot form either JR Kyobashi, or Noeuchindai Station on the Tanimachi Subway Line
Activity Information
“Yuushinkan” iaido dojo in Kyobashi Osaka will become the stage for this experience
This dojo aims to offer its visitors a very authentic lesson in iaido, kenjutsu and tameshigiri test cutting.
The first master and creator of the Yuushin-ryu style, Tenyu Hirotoshi Seto has spent many years perfecting the martial arts of old and infusing them with new techniques, combining them into the unique and original Yuushin-ryu style that you can experience.
The experience takes place at an authentic dojo!
The dojo is full of swords and armor that create a unique scenery for your lesson. The mirror walls are an excellent tool that will help you check and correct your proper form during the training. The dojo itself has a very historic feel to it and makes you excited for the lesson the moment you step in.
Look the part and don authentic martial artist clothes or even armor!
At the start of the lesson you will change into authentic martial artist training clothes. First timers will be assisted by the instructor and shown the proper way to wear the clothes, so there is no need to worry. If worn properly, the clothes will help you assume the correct posture and make you look like a real warrior in an instant! If you want to take it one step further and try on the armor as well, be sure to check out the Shogun course!
Proper etiquette
After you have changed clothes, you will first be taught proper manners and etiquette. Japanese martial arts “start with a greeting and end with a greeting”. By going through the proper ritual you will find inner peace and your body and mind will be ready to finally wield the sword.
First, the basics
First you will use a safe practice sword and learn basic techniques like how to correctly wield, draw and swing the sword. The training takes place in front of wall mirrors, so you can train whilst checking and correcting your posture and movements as you go. Even though you are wielding a practice sword, every technique trained during this phase is an authentic one.
English interpretation is also possible!
The assistant instructor will be more than happy to gently explain the experience contents and important information in easy to understand English.If there is anything you do not quite understand or wish to ask, feel free to do so anytime!
If English interpretation is necessary, you will be instructed by the assistant instructor.
In case of complicated and difficult techniques, the explanations will be done by the assistant instructor in a way that is very easy to understand. By gradual repetition, you eventually get a grasp on the performed techniques.
Observe a performance by the instructor, Tenyu Hirotoshi Seto himself
You will also be able to watch a powerful performance of traditional Japanese iai-kata and swordplay using real Japanese swords. The techniques of Yuushin-ryu style applicable in real combat are quite impressive.
See the straw test cutting with a Japanese sword by a true master
See the master take up his stance, slowly unsheathe his blade and once his breathing and posture is aligned, effortlessly cut the straw in one cut. The series of movements are expertly executed and the straw is cut through in an instant, perfectly demonstrating the sharpness of the Japanese sword.
Experience a match with a mock sword using Yuushin-ryu sword techniques.
The experience is quite comprehensive, starting with learning of the etiquette before touching the sword, up to learning an authentic iai-kata and swordsmanship. The mock sword is the perfect tool to test the techniques you just learned in a safe manner.
Slip back into the past and enjoy a photoshoot with authentic armor!
You can also don an armor and have a photo session, an opportunity not available anywhere else but the Yuushindo. A professional photographer will take photos throughout your whole experience and you will receive the digital photos on the same day.
You can even purchase a sword on the spot!
The store next door is part of the dojo and offers you a unique chance to purchase an authentic sword. You can even try the sword you purchased on the spot as well! From Japanese swords to decorative swords and almost everything sword-related, the store has a wide selection of items not just for the sword enthusiast.
You can even try the sword with your own hands
There are many swords, all different by type, length, weight, age, hamon, special features, time period from which they originate and more. If you find that special one that you would like to own, the store can assist you with preparations and transportation to your home country.
I was well welcomed. I arrived in the middle of a training session and Saw all their techniques. The people were very friendly, the master was funny and very humble. Even though you feel like you are an intruder in their sacred dojo with your foreigner clothes, manner and language they do their best to make you feel at ease.
Then was my Time. The training was fast and i was rapidly put to the task of cutting the bamboo which is a unique experience. Now you know what a Real Sword Can do, and it IS very sharp. you feel more authentic in the Armor, and that also makes better photos/videos. The fact that the teacher gives you his Sword to use, and explains his origins and story then you watch all the process of cleaning adds to the expérience. And don't try to touch the blade, i dont know if its rude or dangerous or both but they won't permit it.
To sum it up, it is an authentic experience, original, humbling, intimidating, but very fun experience, and the people in the dojo were awesome. Worth every penny. You Can skip the Armor if you're tight on budget but it is more immersive and makes a perfect souvenir. Highly recommend it.
The experience is held under the instruction of an expert instructor. Our company does not and shall not assume any responsibility or liability for any injuries, damages etc.