Seirykan Dojo

Seizankai Toyama Ryu Batto Jutsu

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

The class is designed to teach all the fundamentals and skills of Toyama Ryu Iaido required to test for the Shodan or First Degree Black Belt level. A typical class is broken down into group and individual training. Each student is given personalized instruction according to their skill level.

Here is the basic rundown:

Class meets Sundays at 3:00 pm

Toyama Ryu Iaido class runs around 2 hours, depending on the number of

students practicing Tameshigiri.

The class begins with Kihon training, followed by group kata practice, and then

breaks into individual training.

Uniforms and other equipment is not needed for beginners.

TOYAMA RYU IAIDO

Kihon - The Fundamentals
Basic Kamae - Stances, proper footwork, and correct holding of the Japanese sword.

Sword Safety - Safe handling of a razor-sharp samurai sword is fundamental to training in Toyama Ryu Iaido. Any behavior jeopardizing the safety of students or instructors is grounds for immediate expulsion from the program.

Correct drawing of the sword.

Happo-giri - the Eight Cuts of Toyama Ryu Iaido.

Toyama Ryu Iaido Kata - Drawing in Combat

3 Shoden Kata - Tameshigiri kata

8 Toyama Ryu Iaido No Kata - Kata techniques against one or more attackers

6 Kumitachi Kata - 2 person kata

7 Gunto Soho Kata - Original Toyama Military Academy kata

Tameshigiri - Practical Cutting Skills

Tameshigiri or test cutting is the heart of Toyama Ryu Iaido. The ability of the student to consistently perform a perfect cut on a target is the only true way to demonstrate control of the sword. After a probationary period of training, usually around 6 months, and the approval of the Sensei, students are instructed in the proper techniques of test cutting on a tatami mat target with a Shinken, or cutting sword. Tameshigiri is practiced in the latter part of the class. Beginners learn about Tameshigiri by watching experienced students during the probationary period. Everyone participates either by practicing Tameshigiri or spectating.