I have done many years of swordsmanship both western and Japanese. I think the separation hinders both schools of thought. Doing initial training with an Iato is probably a good idea. But if you dont learn to cut you aren't going to learn the movements as well. And I would think both Battodo and Iado would benefit from learning to do Kendo so you learn to hit a reacting target.
In Karate, there are some Sensei - such as Patrick McCarthy - who have researched to understand the true intent of Kata. Even if Karate is now a budo, it was once an effective art and it is inconceivable that people would practise pretty but ineffective techniques. Although some have made a fetish of pressure point striking for self defence, I believe that Sensei McCarthy does not see his research as necessarily a move away from budo. If his research is correct, then yes, it does make Karate and Karate Kata a more effective self-defence art, but it also preserves the fullness of the art. After all, if the meaning of the movements does not matter, one could indeed practise dance - but that would not be BU-do. So, bringing this back to the sword, it must enrich practice if one understands the meaning and purpose of movements. Also, analysing techniques and questioning their effectiveness was how the various schools were developed. Once one is established in a tradition, it should not be harmful to ask for explanations. It is interesting that, in Shogo's series with Seki Sensei, there are explanations of how and why a technique is applied. (This contrasts with the traditional attitude in Japanese Karate, where explanation was shunned and the student was told that they would understand if the practised harder and more.) Although Iaido techniques have a more aesthetic appearance than the (admittedly little) Iaijutsu I have seen, the primary difference is one of intent. So, it should not be impossible to practise realistic techniques with an aim of improving the self and the character. Another example, again from Karate, is Morio Higaonna, he has a high level of skill and his hands show an immense commitment towards effectiveness, yet he is a kind man who sees Karate as his "way". Tai Chi is another example, this is practised by millions for health, yet the art originally had a very strong reputation for effectiveness and traditional teachers insist that, even when practised slowly, it should be performed with intent and with real techniques in mind. It is interesting that classic Tai Chi schools often have fast forms and two-person forms as well as the slow form. So, one could imagine a situation where there is solo Kata, with a primary emphasis on precision and Budo; alongside solo and paired Kata and some full speed sparring - along with cutting - to retain a sense of realism and focus. This need not imply an intention to become a deadly fighter nor need it be tied to militarism or nationalism, but simply as an appreciation of the sword in all its aspects. If anyone is surprised or offended by my mentioning Karate in a sword-focused discussion, it is because a) when there is disagreement between schools, it is often more diplomatic to provide analogies from outside rather than criticise one side or the other; b) I am not an expert in the history of battodo, although I do know something about Iaido and I have no knowledge of specific Sensei who might illustrate the points I am making by referring to Senseis McCarthy and Higaonna; and finally c) I felt free to mention it because Shogo refers to Karate and specifically to a distinction between a focus on pure Kata and a focus on realistic "fighting" or sparring.
Have you considered reviewing rurouni kenshin? I would be interesting learning more of the history of the meiji restoration plus the signature move of kenshin is based in buttojutsu.
For me iaido is an amazing educational system that helps me to understand myself, to find the human features I would like to improve. It helps me to look at myself from a side. And the most interesting, I am much happier person since I have started iaido.
As a 1st dan kendoka, I love videos like this which delve into the ideology and terminology of a Japanese cultural aspect so close to my heart. Doubly so bc it came on my birthday. Great job Shogo! Hope to see more of your awesome work soon!
Shogo-kun, the speed you set your video at is perfect. It allowed me to digest and crunch in my head the differences between Iaido (train ❤️ & 🧠), Battodo (train to cut 🗡 like samurai), and Kendo (train against a living/moving opponent safely). Arrigato gozaimasu!
17:36 this is the true purpose of all martial arts; fighting ability is only a secondary skill. When you learn how fragile the human body and life itself are, you can have a deeper respect for meaningful conversation, and pursue it above all else. Then there’s no need for conflict at all. But even if conflict is unavoidable, you can always de-escalate; and even if fighting is inevitable, a skilled martial artist can protect oneself, as well as their opponent. Hurting/killing is a last resort, and in my own opinion, only necessary when protecting others.
When told to set my playback speed to be faster, I felt like I don't need to! Shogo-san, your pacing is alright and the video is easy to understand because of that! :D
I started off doing Iaido, then did 10 years of Battodo before I moved on to 7 years of TSKSR, and in my opinion, the arguments you propose for and against Iaido and Battodo are all fairly valid. Moving too far away from the source is of course unrealistic; just doing kata doesn't make you a fighter; real swords are dangerous, and tameshigiri doesn't make you a fighter either. Still, I think all the arts have their value. Iaido gives its practitioners a lot of good culture and ideals to strive for. There isn't always a necessity to include the realism of real swords if the goal is the spiritual practice itself. In Battodo we use real swords which give you a lot more respect for the sword as a weapon, and even just sheathing it carelessly can cost you your life. As a result, I personally know 5 people who have been severely injured because their technique was wrong or they didn't respect the weapon. Iaido vs Battodo is like using softguns vs target shooting with guns. Both have their value in their own setting, but they are very different. To learn to fight with real swords like the samurai did is almost impossible. That's because when we practice, everything we do is with the goal of not hurting or killing each other, which is diametrically opposed to the purpose of a real sword fight. The shinai and bokken cannot replace a real sword. Even if we used real, but dull swords, we would lose the elements an edged weapon adds. And ultimately, there's no practical purpose of being able to fight effectively with real swords in today's world. I know many like to imagine that what they do is the real deal, but I think if we all can accept the limits of our practice, it's easier to see the value in others' practice. Ultimately, the value of the art is what we put into it, and what we get out of it.
It’s all about triangulation today. I do kenjutsu, battojutsu, and HEMA for my sword education. They all have value and a piece of the puzzle. To be fair, the ancients didn’t know for sure either until they were in a life and death situation. They had only their non-lethal training until that point.
Not really related, but its like kenshin's transformation from being "battousai" to being the nice guy that is more like a yojimbo to kaori and his friends 😊 Looking forward to learn more from you shogo-san 😁👍
I've trained in iaijutsu in Japan. Those of us who own shinken could participate in cutting practices, that are held twice a year during promotions. We also practice standing and kneeling techniques. Even a few two-person drills, which are used with bokuto.
This was really interesting… I understand the difference between these two martial arts … and really understand what that means when you choose one you basically choose it for life. It is the part of your life. It’s the same for me with the Tai Chi
Very well put Shogo!!! As a retired practicener of shotokan karate ( due to medical reasons ) I agree with your point of view 100% Thank you for your content and awesome videos!!!
Thank you for this. I just remembered researching on some Kenjutsu and it includes iaido also like the Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu. Hope you can tackle on "noto" also since I think it had been on the artistic side of putting back the sword in its saya as seen in pop-culture.
I agree. At the end of the day it was once a whole complete style. Those who are serious about Kenjutsu should practice all forms including Iaido(sword movement and body control), battodo(cutting feel and accuracy), kendo(fighting speed impact).
It’s katori shinto ryu which teaches almost all the samurai combat forms, but it’ll never be as complete as the real thing, the samurai trained in swordsmanship, horsemanship, archery, strategy, unarmed combat, swimming, climbing, rope tying, etiquette and many things that are not practical for today or needed.
@@anas-432 they may not be needed but alot of it is practical just not necessary to learn (people aren't going around killing each other with swords, Yari and bows or walking around with them)
@@anas-432 that's like joining the army to be a soldier. Learning how to use one's weapon is just a small part of being a good soldier. The fundamentals have not changed since Man started killing each other aeons ago.
I have practiced iaido since 1989. Now the lat few years I've been drawn to kenjutsu. Especially when watching Kuroda-san (many clips on youtube). I started to realize that kenjutsu was what my spirit was trying to tell me all the time.
Great video as always! Just one thing, depending on the country and its laws, you can use blunt steel swords rather than an alloy for practice. Weight and balance is far better this way.
That's Nakamura Taizaburo sensei's book! My kendo sensei has lots of stories of the time he visited Seattle in the '90s. You can find his videos from the '80s on RUclips. It's very different from what you might expect.
I have practiced Kendo, Iaido, and Ishi Yama Ryu. I own several Chinese made Katana and recently ordered a Motohara Katana from Korea. Motohara make a the best Katana outside of Japan and they aren't cheap, but I will get exactly what I want, hand made fittings, blade, and everyrhing is made for each individual Katana. It was $4,500 but if I add together all the Hanwei, Skyjiro, Dynasty Forge, and other Chinese Katana I have owned and currently own, thats a small price to pay to get what I want
●Shogo's Podcast/Sub-channel: [Omake talk] The one and only reason why I hate iaido... Something that I want to change ruclips.net/video/k8t05fNoCaU/видео.html To make a long story short... Iaijutsu & battojutsu were considered basically the same in the past, however iaido and battodo created after WW2 are two different martial arts. This video's topic is very complicated and sensitive, so if you still have any questions please let me know here or through Instagram DM. instagram.com/lets_ask_shogo/ ・ In this channel, you can take a closer look at Japanese traditional culture, tips upon traveling to Kyoto, and social problems in Japan. So learners and lovers of Japanese language and culture, be sure to subscribe to enjoy more content! Please check out the description box for more videos recommended for you! ▼Join our Membership▼ ruclips.net/channel/UCn7DCb9ttrcw9h3vh9dfnVwjoin ●Membership benefits -Limited behind-the-scene videos ruclips.net/p/UUMOn7DCb9ttrcw9h3vh9dfnVw -Weekly live stream -Priority reply to comments Every single yen we earn from this membership, we will be donating to groups of people who are fighting to solve social problems in Japan, the Japanese schools where foreign students can study, or use it to spread the works of people working with traditional culture in Japan to preserve the arts they are doing. ▼Sub channel “Shogo’s Podcast”▼ ruclips.net/channel/UCZAe1VayWxp5NLO4Net78DA The perfect channel to learn about Japanese culture and history in your spare time, during your walk to school or work, and when you are cooking or doing house chores. Not only will I be covering the topics in this main channel, but also some topics that you will only be able to enjoy in the sub-channel, like answering questions I receive, and my opinions towards some of the comments. ▼Instagram▼ instagram.com/lets_ask_shogo/ *Please ask me questions through the DM here!（⚠️I do not use e-mail） Thank you again very much for watching!
Hey Shogo, I need your opinion on something. I'm a fanfiction writer and I'm planning on writing a Naruto Fanfiction, but after watching this video, I see that the "iaido" techniques and kata used by the Samurai of Naruto look more like Battodo techniques, though Mifune, the Samurai leader, has a scene where he uses a battodo technique from an Iaido sitting position. If I were to separate Iaido and Battodo, would it make sense to separate the two tech issues by classifying Iaido as "defensive" in nature as a means of reaching spiritual enlightenment and protecting one's self in the event of a surprise attack, while battodo is "offensive" and all about ending a battle quickly or keeping the Ninja of the Naruto world from utilizing Ninjutsu and Genjutsu (their mystical techniques in the series to cast elemental spells and illusions)?
I have come to love watching your videos. Sharing your culture and your passion is something I love. I’ve trained in Shito Ryu karate since I was 16. I share many of your beliefs and concerns. My style taught five sword Katas that I still practice. I took up cutting practice using 2lt coke bottles that are more plentiful here than tatami Matt’s in the states. My teacher taught that kata is the basis of everything. That it was like learning to swim on dry land. It didn’t necessarily teach you how to swim but made you a better swimmer when you did get in the water. That the kata was like a moving encyclopedia. It helped you learn and remember techniques that you needed when you did begin to spar or fight. To me, Iaido, cutting, and kendo are the trifecta of the sword and the samurai spirit. I believe all three should be practice as different levels of the same thing. To separate them is to be like the three blind men each feeling a different part of the elephant. Each style is correct but fails to grasp the whole.
I briefly trained a koryu kenjitsu/battojutsu style for a few years. the purpose of training in koryu is so starkly different than modern budo styles. Koryu are interested in preserving the art form above all else; the personal achievement or fulfillment of the practitioner isn’t really a priority. That’s not to say that old-styles can’t be fulfilling, but it’s not what the arts are focused on. They are aiming to train folks who can uphold and preserve an historical artifact, and if that’s not a thing you can do, they don’t want you. It was a crazy experience totally unlike any other martial art I’ve practiced. And I DEFINITELY didn’t have the discipline for it back when I trained. Great vid as always
I really enjoy your videos and would like to offer my own experience to improve our mutual understanding. Although you are correct on the differences between these two martial arts, there are some inaccuracies here. Battojutsu existed as part of larger samurai arts well before Hayashizaki Jinsuke formalized Iaido. While the bow was the primary weapon of samurai for centuries, I think it's shortsighted to think that they would simply draw their swords without any special techniques to do it efficiently and effectively. For example, Kashima Shinryu was established in 1473 and already included battojutsu in its curriculum. Whether tachi or more modern variants of katana, these warriors would practice every aspect of warfare, not just start once the sword is unsheathed. The difference between the two jutsu is intent. Battojutsu draws the sword with intent to continue combat. Iaijutsu involves the complete acts of drawing, cutting, and sheathing with the assumption that combat has ended (often from an anachronistic seated position, but I think it's okay to imagine such exercises as useful for drawing wakizashi as well). This difference can be seen in the etymology of these terms. 抜刀 (batto) literally translates as "to draw out (抜) a sword (刀)". On the other hand, iai has a more esoteric translation, with its characters, 居合, not having such a clear cut meaning (pun intended, of course!). 居 can mean "to reside; to be; to exist", while 合 likely means "to meet". So... "To exist in the meeting" might be the easiest translation to English. Thus, battojutsu existed as very real exercises to be used in warfare as part of an overall knowledge set, while Iaido and its techniques were developed with the modern mindset of martial arts. Same as Battodo, these can be seen as sports in the same manner as sportified karate. This is not to diminish these practices as they are useful in many ways, but they are far removed from practical combat. As someone who has practiced Okinawan karate and kobudo for decades (as well as other schools), I see many students fail to understand this distinction. Kata are training tools; crucial parts of a curriculum but useless without the complete set of knowledge. In this manner, I would consider Battodo an incomplete art as much as Iaido. You've drawn a sword and cut... Then what? That's why koryu kata and kihon involve a continued state of zanshin, mindfulness that combat hasn't ended after the technique. Cutting tatami mats is very useful for testing edge alignment, strength, and other aspects, but it is only part of a larger concept of martial science. Once again, I do not seek to diminish these practices. Only discuss the difference between modern schools and the actual combat from which they were born. One final note on practicality: it isn't recommended to sheath one's sword directly after combat as shown in these arts. Blood in the saya is not a good thing for blade maintenance...
I believe that learning to avoid violence is an important part of enlightenment through martial arts. But a foundational part of that is an intimate knowledge of how to do violence and injure or kill someone. Without the understanding that comes from that knowledge the value of peace and nonviolence is neither properly appreciated or understood. An essential element of pacifism is the ability to do violence and choosing not to. Without the ability to do great violence choosing not to do harm is not pacifism, but simply harmlessness.
I used to love the idea of moral and self development in martial arts but from what ive seen, that only holds true for people who are already violent and restless and therefor need discipline and an outlet for their negativity. For regular people, martial arts have the tendency to foster egotistical and violent behavior. Also, thanks for explaining what i always used to wonder about while watching the rurouni kenshin series 20 years ago.
This video of yours... Albeit not my first I have watched by your person; has been my greatest reason of my well-earned respect to you, your style of production and manners in explaining your personal views/observations in a very digestible way regardless the side of the argument one may be choosing to situate themselves in. You have also an undeniable respect to the viewers whilst trying to ensure they fully experience your videos as best they can with what ever ability you would be able to put into them. As a random RUclips viewer, I thank you for the value you are putting into your content. I have chosen to subscribe to view more of what it is you may have to offer.
This video, although briefly explained, also explains the difference between Iaido and Iaijutsu really nice. When I first started Iaido, I always wondered why we weren't cutting faster and stronger. It didn't make sense to me that we are using weapons to only "demonstrate" instead of focusing on "reality". When I told my friend about this after our Kendo practice, he recommended me to visit an Iaijutsu dojo. At first I thought it would be the same thing... but I was so wrong. The ways that are taught were different enough that I felt like I was learning a different martial art. It wasn't particularly a night and day level of difference, but the Iaijutsu dojo focused more on practicality rather than the way of doing each waza and katas like the Iaido dojo I was attending. I did love learning the practicality and other movements that seemed I could really agree on. However, I did end up staying in the Iaido dojo, although the Iaijutsu dojo focused on practicality, some of the concepts they have clashed with what I have been learning for decades(Kendo), which made me leave. Still, I would highly recommend both dojos depending on the person of what they're looking for. Practicality vs Harmony/Self-improvement.
An amazing & educational video this clip was to watch. In addition the techniques you spoke of for Iado & Battodo reminds me of how I was taught years ago by friends who were descendants of Japanese sword users including samurais that as a sword weilder you only draw your weapon to defend yourself & others & especially in a fight like or other life & death threatening situation.
Hey Shogo! Thank you for your research in the matter. Can you make a video about fighting with two swords? There is kata from the nitenichi-ryu and also also the kendo nito-ryu.
Ok speaking of Sowrds, in the last live of sword training, I was asking if you can do a video about head taking, not necessarily next video, but just someday please. Anyways, great video as usual, keep it up :D
As someone who used to be a Kendo and Iaido trainee (in Switzerland) I enjoyed your video very much, thank you! Excellently made, loved your illustrations. And yes, being used to a Iaito and seeing adn feeling what blunders happen, I‘d be very very scared at the thought using a katana - especially by beginners…
Thank you for making videos like this. I really enjoy watching video about Japanese culture and Japanese swordsmanship. Although i don't have a martial arts training.
I started iaido because i thought the form is beautiful and the noto is zen in your hands. I seen tatami cutting but the smooth draw and noto is what caught my eye. great video.
Well, the WWII after effects certainly help explain why it's so hard to find kenjutsu training today. That said, understanding that the drawing techniques aren't really to be found with kenjutsu instruction is something worth bearing in mind, as while having an already drawn sword may make sense on a battlefield, but for something like a duel (or an encounter with bandits), the ability to skillfully draw the sword does indeed seem like something worth picking up. All of these arts certainly seem to have their merits; thank you for clarifying a bit further as I decide where my focus will be.
Thank you for that explanation. That clears up some things I did not understand thinking both were parts of the same martial art. The softball vs. baseball comparison seems very accurate from an American perspective. I share your view that the various disciplines should not need to compete against each other or look down on the other. They each have their purpose and value for their appropriate situations. I would think by having a greater understanding of multiple disciplines you have a wider knowledge and skill set to handle a greater amount of situations. Competence is the well-spring of genuine confidence and character. I think it was a Roman/Greek Philosopher who said something like: Never separate the scholars from the warriors or your scholars will become cowards and you warriors will become fools.
Thank you, for all that you share and the gifts and the history of Japan and its culture I am truly grateful, as a student of kendo and the iaido under Sensei Kenshi Nabashima Sama and the Dallas Fort worth Kendo & Iaido club it's nice we can all share culture and ideas between one another and that we are all connected, Domo ‼️‼️‼️‼️
Yeah it be nice to bring them all together maybe use Iaido as a starter course. To understand and appreciate sword handling. Then put Kendo so students get the practice and see the importance of the movements and reality of combat. THEN if the students spirit and morals are upright finish with the cutting arts.
I've trained several different styles over the year. There is a lot of sword within the Jujitsu Syllabus I follow. I also started ZNKR (iaido) a couple of years ago to support personal development. I have now had my school accepted into the Zen Nihon Batto Do Renmei so this is a work in practice, but visiting japan in October / November really helped my development in Batto
Shogo-san, thank you for your wonderful videos about Japanese culture and martial arts. I am very impressed with each presentation. Not only is the detailed knowledge you give us so well researched, you communicate it very clearly with superb public speaking skills in English. What I appreciate the most is your patient kindness, generosity and gentle heart. Thank you so very much.
I'm new to your channel and realy like the content your putting out!And just subbed!!I used to train iaido back in 2012,but I got diagnosed with a Nasty disease about a year after I started and couldn't keep up training in class, so I trained at my house at my own pace..Thankyou again for the Awesome videos!!✌
Thank you for your videos Shogo-san. I really like your format and pace a lot. It is obvious to me that you take great care and preparations for your videos. I enjoy and learn a lot from you!
Very nice video! I have been involved in a variety of arts since 1975. I was just beginning training in Iaido when the onset of MS made my legs not like kneeling and standing. That made practicing the first 5 kata that I learned next to impossible. I still train what I can, but if I want to learn Iaido, I would have to find someone willing to teach me only the standing forms.
Muso jikiden eishin ryu combines battodo and iaido and the sitting forms can all be reproduced standing (infact several of the omori ryu originally were standing kata). Also, we do tameshigiri as well. While there's certainly a big differencr between kendo federation iaido and all japan battodo, most of the other schools have different ways of combining the two into a more comprehensive sword art. Must also remember that many eishin ryu sword styles still stem from pre edo styles which used a tachi rather than uchigatana. Even the katori shinto ryu predates edo though it is a more all encompassing martial art system. Lots of great info and insights here. Just wanted to add my observations and understandings through my studies as well. Love your channel!
I trained Aiki-Toho-Iai for about 10 years before cutting with a real sword. The cuttings went very well, and I attribute that to having good teachers that I trusted ;-) It gave a strange sensation afterwards, It was the realization that these cuts could have killed or hurt someone, and that led to some deep reflection.
Man i always thought u do all the cutting stuffs in iaido. Ive heard abt battodo but i didnt do any research abt it. Thanks Shogo-san for clearing this up ❤
From a _very_ practical point of view, some claims of the Battodo federation fail to some extent, but I'll only stick to one: The weapon. A shinken sword. The katana, first of all is not a _cheap_ weapon. It is simply not available for the general public. In addition to this, it is not a very resistant weapon either. In fact, it's quite fragile. If the alignment (hasuji) of the cutting angle is off, not good. The katana can bend and even break on contact with the target (this target does not have to be a hard object for this to happen). This occurs with tatami mats quite often and to experienced people. A piece of broken blade on impact can become a really nasty projectile. No safe by any means, even for a sengoku _bushi_ standars. In addition to this, it must be taken into account that the katana blade (the nakago section of it) is attached to the handle (tsuka) by means of a simple bamboo bolt (in some cases two) called mekugi. This _mekugi_ is forced with certain techniques to the point of torqueing. The most famous of this "mekugi-torqueing" techniques is perhaps _kesagake_ (and gyaku-kesa as shown in 9:40). A broken mekugi means a flying blade. Upwards or downwards, nobody wants a flying blade. Regardless of all this, the video is magnificent. Shogo San expresses himself in a pleasant and clear way. Very accurate. I wish you Shogo a lot of success always. Your effort is greatly appreciated. Cheers!
I am very interesting in armed martials arts from all the world. I like the way the "do" focus on the metal aspect of oneself, but also the aspect of "jutsu" to cultivate the skill. In Historical Europeans Martials Arts practise more the "jutsu" of the ancients tecnique that some masters write 500 years ago, but I also believe that a strong mind is important in martials arts and in life in general, so i guess the "do" and the "jutsu" parts are important to me. Thanks you for the video
Again many thanks for such an excellent video brings an overview on these topics! As a beginner in Iaido it's great to go to the fundamentals of this "Art". As a student in many martial arts for over 20 years, I like to appreciate and underline your point to be respectfull versus other martial arts forms, and thier suggestions to react on a battle situation. I do reccomend to participate in seminars several martial arts are trained, to respectfully feel and train other ways to react on a situation. Anyhow, again my deepes thanks for your great videos. PS may you can add a video focused on the right prononciation of japanese Words? EG I was astonished on the right prononciation of Tsuba
Actually I like to know how the wakizashi fit into the Samurais beliefs and combat strategies. People buy them but it seems like nobody ever uses them or speaks about specifically training with a wakizashi. And I also kind of like to know if the Ninja use the same techniques or did they have to adapt their own
isn't it the sword that was used to cut your own guts when certain conditions were met? also it was the one to fight with indoors where a longer sword could not be used effectively, i believe.
@@s_s-g4d Wakizashi was used as a backup weapon. Samurai would either carry that, a Tanto or both. But a special Tanto made for ceremonies were made for that. Or on the battlefield, anything sharp would be used.
Ah... I see the dilemma here. You have taken something that was whole and broken it into 3 off-kilter pieces. To brings things back into harmony you'll need a new system called iaibattokenjutsudo (居合抜刀剣術道) - now you can cut straw mats with bamboo swords while still maintaining a peaceful heart and mind, and more importantly everyone's safe😜
The modern martial arts of Kendo, Iado and Battodo are intended to be accessible to modern practitioners. I would not characterize the separation of Japanese swordsmanship into 3 different paths as “off-kilter”. Rather, it is better to see it as 3 branches of the same tree. Or 3 areas of specialization and specific training needs.Some dedicated martial artists train in the multiple systems to become “well rounded”. The most dedicated study Koryu or the “old school” martial arts that pre-exist the split. Old school Systems often teach a variety of weapons and unarmed techniques that formed the basis of completely separate modern martial arts like Kendo, Judo, etc. In some cases the separation of modern martial arts is for convenient and obvious reasons: swords are different from grappling. In other cases it is for accessibility and adaptation to the needs of the modern era. The only a few of the oldest and very traditional schools have persisted down the ages; but are not for the general public. Access is quite limited and training is a lifetime commitment; almost a feudal obligation. Few modern people today have what it takes to become part of a living tradition. The split of traditional swordsmanship training into three different martial arts is done partly due to the specific kind of training, equipment needed and the level of experience needed for each. Kendo is safe enough for children as young as 5 or six years old to begin. It is part of the general physical education in public schools. Iaido and Battodo require a much more serious level of training to be safe and to learn properly. Historically, those techniques would not be taught until much later in a swordsman’s development. So taken in context it is less strange to separate the larger tradition of swordsmanship into sub-groups. It is like having a different license for driving a car, motorcycle or commercial vehicle. Kendo is most analogous to European fencing: the emphasis is on competition between two swordsmen to simulate a duel. In the 18th & 19th C. both traditions of Kendo and Fencing evolved to train a generation of young gentlemen who grew up in an urban, wealthy and civilian lifestyle. The weapons used in war were not suitable for safe competition between students; so specialized masks, gloves and body armor was developed along side safe training weapons like the bamboo shinai and the fencing foil. In the previous Middle Ages and Renaissance eras, when warfare was endemic; both Japan and Europeans used wooden swords to train and in some older traditional schools they were continued to be employed. Various Kenjutsu schools like Katori Shinto Ryu can be traced to the 15th Century and use wooden weapons as well as real weapons to this day. Their emphasis nowadays is on preserving the knowledge of the past via kata and has little to no open competition. European fencing schools developed in parallel with specialized equipment, techniques and purposes. German Mensuer became a rite of passage for University Fraternities. French Smallsword & Italian dueling saber developed into a dueling culture and eventually into Olympic Fencing. British Single Stick evolved into a sport; out of a body of knowledge for broadsword and military sabre. All are modern and civilian martial arts that came about as swords decreased in importance as a weapon of war. All seek to cultivate a warrior ethos and impart a culture closer emphasize competition with safety weapons, masks, padded gloves and jackets. More similar to Single Stick, than what Olympic fencing has become; Kendo developed out of a need for more competitive training methods than kata alone could provide. As the peaceful Edo period continued, generations of samurai grew up in a world without war and became government administrators. To preserve their identity as warriors in a world without war, Kendo evolved. In Kendo a courageous spirit, physical training and mental toughness is more important than specific weapon techniques. In the Edo period Iaijutsu / Iaido was developed as a kind of quick draw defense against ambush and assassination attempts in urban close quarters combat. Battojutsu / Battodo developed to maintain good techniques for edge alignment and cutting with the sword that Kendo alone could not teach. Tatami was used because it was commonly available. Condemned criminals were sometimes killed by dismemberment with the sword to test quality of swords and the samurai’s mettle. It goes with out saying that such death sentences are no longer practiced and were outlawed by the Meiji government in the 19th Century. One of the reasons why all martial arts and Kendo in particular was banned by the American occupational government from 1945 to 1954 was because during WWII, some war crimes were committed against POWs in imitation of those outdated and cruel notions. I think that may be why in 1954, at the end of the American post war occupation of Japan; cutting techniques were deliberately left out of the official curriculum for the RE-establishment of Kendo & Iaido. There was a significant shift in the new character of Japanese martial arts; away from fighting and more towards a philosophy of self improvement and cultural development that began in the peaceful Edo period. Basically to take the best parts of traditional martial arts and culture in order to rebuild Japanese society in a modern, nonviolent and respectful context for the future. The specter of the war can’t be overstated. I believe that the fusion of new and old spirit of the RE-established martial arts as a “way of peace, culture and for the improvement of humanity” is a key part of Japanese success today. It has gone a long way to repair the perversion of the samurai spirit that had occurred during the Imperial Expansionist era. During those dark years, the martial arts were used to militarize and indoctrinate the country by a cadre of politically opportunistic, extreme nationalists. Fascists who infiltrated the military, staged an insider coup, and dominated the government from the 1920’s till the Japan’s surrender in 1945. It has passed from living memory for most of us today, but would have been very much in the fore of every one’s mind during the last half of the 20th Century. It is interesting to note that the All Japan Battodo Federation was established in 1977, over 20 years after the All Japan Kendo Federation and Iaido club. On a parallel development track, HEMA or Historical European Martial Arts is more concerned with rediscovering techniques than philosophy or mindset. To this end it has developed to include sword cutting as part of the curriculum. To my knowledge HEMA is a recent development from the 1990s (as the internet made the research and translation of historical manuals available to the public). Practitioners seek to revive Medieval and Pre-Modern styles of European swordsmanship that have been lost to time. I find it interesting that HEMA has been inspired by Battodo to develop cutting exercises of their own to help understand how swords function in a safe but realistic way. Tatami, plastic bottles, cardboard tubes, ballistic gel and sometimes meat targets (pork usually, as pigs carcasses are used in forensic investigations to simulate human flesh.)
Thank you, for explaining this, Shogo-dono. I have pondered this question several times; "how is battojutsu different from battodo" or how is "aikido different from aikijutsu". I am a new follower to your channel, but I find it very enlightening. Arigatou gozaimasu.
Thanks for the explanation and sharing, in America this information is reserved or simply the teachers decide not to comment on it until the student has grown in the art that is practiced.
I appreciate your videos. You have inspired my to sign up for classes in Denton Texas Denton Iaido! Thank you! Keep the videos coming. I also got copy of Miyamoto Musashi’s book of the Five Rings.
I think that both are very important, one is an art for your hearth and spirit as you say. The other one is kind of a time machine to remember traditions and avoid those to be looses forever. Both have their purpose and both are nice to my pov.
I personally feel that all schools of thought concerning Japanese swordsmanship have a lot to teach us, so I try to practice Iaido teachings, Battodo teachings, and Kendo teachings. It is difficult to learn all of them, but I have my whole life to do it and I am looking forward to spending my years training and appreciating them all.
So I've come out of this solidified in the fact I love kendo the most, being able to whack someone with a stick and not seriously injure them is one of the most fun things I've ever done. Iaido seems heavily uncomfortable as I've damaged the nerves near my knees so I can't kneel without shearing pain coursing through me, and Battodo just doesn't look like fun, it seems more like bragging rights than an actually enjoyable thing to do though that doesn't mean I won't give them a look in the future. But yeah Kendo just has the best feeling for me because outside of competition being able to test your skill against your friends and still be able to enjoy a meal at the same "table" after is a great experience, though I'm far from an expert. I see no harm if everyone enjoys what they're doing.
I too practice Iaido, and hope to test for Shodan next year, after the dojo reopens post Covid. We are looking for a new training hall though. My dojo is Doshi Kai and under the auspices of the AEUSKF.
This helped me understand these two martial arts a lot better as I've always struggled in understanding how they're different. However, while you did great in explaining how iaido and battodo are different, I still don't grasp how iaijutsu and battojutsu are different. They're both meant for attacking which means both involve real katanas and cutting something, so what are the differences here?
im normally no comentor, but this man deserve credit, every single video he does it again... keep up the good work, you are unique on youtube
I have done many years of swordsmanship both western and Japanese. I think the separation hinders both schools of thought. Doing initial training with an Iato is probably a good idea. But if you dont learn to cut you aren't going to learn the movements as well. And I would think both Battodo and Iado would benefit from learning to do Kendo so you learn to hit a reacting target.
Agree, honestly, the most interesting would be a bit of all 3, Iato, kendo and Battodo
In Karate, there are some Sensei - such as Patrick McCarthy - who have researched to understand the true intent of Kata. Even if Karate is now a budo, it was once an effective art and it is inconceivable that people would practise pretty but ineffective techniques. Although some have made a fetish of pressure point striking for self defence, I believe that Sensei McCarthy does not see his research as necessarily a move away from budo. If his research is correct, then yes, it does make Karate and Karate Kata a more effective self-defence art, but it also preserves the fullness of the art. After all, if the meaning of the movements does not matter, one could indeed practise dance - but that would not be BU-do.
So, bringing this back to the sword, it must enrich practice if one understands the meaning and purpose of movements. Also, analysing techniques and questioning their effectiveness was how the various schools were developed. Once one is established in a tradition, it should not be harmful to ask for explanations. It is interesting that, in Shogo's series with Seki Sensei, there are explanations of how and why a technique is applied. (This contrasts with the traditional attitude in Japanese Karate, where explanation was shunned and the student was told that they would understand if the practised harder and more.) Although Iaido techniques have a more aesthetic appearance than the (admittedly little) Iaijutsu I have seen, the primary difference is one of intent. So, it should not be impossible to practise realistic techniques with an aim of improving the self and the character.
Another example, again from Karate, is Morio Higaonna, he has a high level of skill and his hands show an immense commitment towards effectiveness, yet he is a kind man who sees Karate as his "way". Tai Chi is another example, this is practised by millions for health, yet the art originally had a very strong reputation for effectiveness and traditional teachers insist that, even when practised slowly, it should be performed with intent and with real techniques in mind. It is interesting that classic Tai Chi schools often have fast forms and two-person forms as well as the slow form. So, one could imagine a situation where there is solo Kata, with a primary emphasis on precision and Budo; alongside solo and paired Kata and some full speed sparring - along with cutting - to retain a sense of realism and focus. This need not imply an intention to become a deadly fighter nor need it be tied to militarism or nationalism, but simply as an appreciation of the sword in all its aspects.
If anyone is surprised or offended by my mentioning Karate in a sword-focused discussion, it is because a) when there is disagreement between schools, it is often more diplomatic to provide analogies from outside rather than criticise one side or the other; b) I am not an expert in the history of battodo, although I do know something about Iaido and I have no knowledge of specific Sensei who might illustrate the points I am making by referring to Senseis McCarthy and Higaonna; and finally c) I felt free to mention it because Shogo refers to Karate and specifically to a distinction between a focus on pure Kata and a focus on realistic "fighting" or sparring.
Have you considered reviewing rurouni kenshin? I would be interesting learning more of the history of the meiji restoration plus the signature move of kenshin is based in buttojutsu.
RrR
Most definitely...
+1 Rorouni Kenshin brought me here 😊 and I've been binge watching Shogo's vids since yesterday 😁
The only movie adaptation I actually like more than the anime
It is a very good live action few story changes but the good bits r there
For me iaido is an amazing educational system that helps me to understand myself, to find the human features I would like to improve. It helps me to look at myself from a side. And the most interesting, I am much happier person since I have started iaido.
exactly its about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and expressing yourself through movement.
i would love to learn iaido but I'm too little lol
@@harisbo6 lots of schools offer special courses for kids
@@majmaj2705 thank you for info
@@harisbo6 samurai started very young
As a 1st dan kendoka, I love videos like this which delve into the ideology and terminology of a Japanese cultural aspect so close to my heart. Doubly so bc it came on my birthday. Great job Shogo! Hope to see more of your awesome work soon!
Shogo-kun, the speed you set your video at is perfect. It allowed me to digest and crunch in my head the differences between Iaido (train ❤️ & 🧠), Battodo (train to cut 🗡 like samurai), and Kendo (train against a living/moving opponent safely). Arrigato gozaimasu!
17:36 this is the true purpose of all martial arts; fighting ability is only a secondary skill. When you learn how fragile the human body and life itself are, you can have a deeper respect for meaningful conversation, and pursue it above all else. Then there’s no need for conflict at all. But even if conflict is unavoidable, you can always de-escalate; and even if fighting is inevitable, a skilled martial artist can protect oneself, as well as their opponent. Hurting/killing is a last resort, and in my own opinion, only necessary when protecting others.
I started studying iaido the first time i went to Japan. I fell in love woth it, and have been practicing it ever since
100% 👍🏼… i train Kendo & Iaido since 1998… ありがとうございました for that Video!
A fellow sword geek and iaidoka here, Its always good to see more videos about iaido history. Thank you!
When told to set my playback speed to be faster, I felt like I don't need to! Shogo-san, your pacing is alright and the video is easy to understand because of that! :D
I started off doing Iaido, then did 10 years of Battodo before I moved on to 7 years of TSKSR, and in my opinion, the arguments you propose for and against Iaido and Battodo are all fairly valid.
Moving too far away from the source is of course unrealistic; just doing kata doesn't make you a fighter; real swords are dangerous, and tameshigiri doesn't make you a fighter either. Still, I think all the arts have their value. Iaido gives its practitioners a lot of good culture and ideals to strive for. There isn't always a necessity to include the realism of real swords if the goal is the spiritual practice itself. In Battodo we use real swords which give you a lot more respect for the sword as a weapon, and even just sheathing it carelessly can cost you your life. As a result, I personally know 5 people who have been severely injured because their technique was wrong or they didn't respect the weapon. Iaido vs Battodo is like using softguns vs target shooting with guns. Both have their value in their own setting, but they are very different.
To learn to fight with real swords like the samurai did is almost impossible. That's because when we practice, everything we do is with the goal of not hurting or killing each other, which is diametrically opposed to the purpose of a real sword fight. The shinai and bokken cannot replace a real sword. Even if we used real, but dull swords, we would lose the elements an edged weapon adds. And ultimately, there's no practical purpose of being able to fight effectively with real swords in today's world. I know many like to imagine that what they do is the real deal, but I think if we all can accept the limits of our practice, it's easier to see the value in others' practice. Ultimately, the value of the art is what we put into it, and what we get out of it.
It’s all about triangulation today. I do kenjutsu, battojutsu, and HEMA for my sword education. They all have value and a piece of the puzzle. To be fair, the ancients didn’t know for sure either until they were in a life and death situation. They had only their non-lethal training until that point.
Not really related, but its like kenshin's transformation from being "battousai" to being the nice guy that is more like a yojimbo to kaori and his friends 😊
Looking forward to learn more from you shogo-san 😁👍
I've trained in iaijutsu in Japan. Those of us who own shinken could participate in cutting practices, that are held twice a year during promotions. We also practice standing and kneeling techniques. Even a few two-person drills, which are used with bokuto.
Such a wonderful explaination thank you so much.
This was really interesting… I understand the difference between these two martial arts … and really understand what that means when you choose one you basically choose it for life. It is the part of your life. It’s the same for me with the Tai Chi
Very well put Shogo!!!
As a retired practicener of shotokan karate ( due to medical reasons ) I agree with your point of view 100% Thank you for your content and awesome videos!!!
Thank you for this.
I just remembered researching on some Kenjutsu and it includes iaido also like the Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu.
Hope you can tackle on "noto" also since I think it had been on the artistic side of putting back the sword in its saya as seen in pop-culture.
Me: to be good samurai, you have to mastering iaido, batto, kendo, judo, and all other do..
I agree. At the end of the day it was once a whole complete style. Those who are serious about Kenjutsu should practice all forms including Iaido(sword movement and body control), battodo(cutting feel and accuracy), kendo(fighting speed impact).
It’s katori shinto ryu which teaches almost all the samurai combat forms, but it’ll never be as complete as the real thing, the samurai trained in swordsmanship, horsemanship, archery, strategy, unarmed combat, swimming, climbing, rope tying, etiquette and many things that are not practical for today or needed.
@@anas-432 they may not be needed but alot of it is practical just not necessary to learn (people aren't going around killing each other with swords, Yari and bows or walking around with them)
@@anas-432 that's like joining the army to be a soldier. Learning how to use one's weapon is just a small part of being a good soldier. The fundamentals have not changed since Man started killing each other aeons ago.
@@Randi-h5q it’s a militaristic way of life so it’s similar but it’s different.
I have practiced iaido since 1989. Now the lat few years I've been drawn to kenjutsu. Especially when watching Kuroda-san (many clips on youtube). I started to realize that kenjutsu was what my spirit was trying to tell me all the time.
Great video as always! Just one thing, depending on the country and its laws, you can use blunt steel swords rather than an alloy for practice. Weight and balance is far better this way.
I liked this comparison and think you make some astute observations. Coming from more traditional schools, I often mix-up Iaido and Battodo.
That's Nakamura Taizaburo sensei's book! My kendo sensei has lots of stories of the time he visited Seattle in the '90s. You can find his videos from the '80s on RUclips. It's very different from what you might expect.
Aye... he had a way with dogs and children. 😉
Oh I didn't realize I was so early to this video. Great content! お疲れ様でした!
I have practiced Kendo, Iaido, and Ishi Yama Ryu. I own several Chinese made Katana and recently ordered a Motohara Katana from Korea. Motohara make a the best Katana outside of Japan and they aren't cheap, but I will get exactly what I want, hand made fittings, blade, and everyrhing is made for each individual Katana. It was $4,500 but if I add together all the Hanwei, Skyjiro, Dynasty Forge, and other Chinese Katana I have owned and currently own, thats a small price to pay to get what I want
●Shogo's Podcast/Sub-channel:
[Omake talk] The one and only reason why I hate iaido... Something that I want to change
ruclips.net/video/k8t05fNoCaU/видео.html
To make a long story short...
Iaijutsu & battojutsu were considered basically the same in the past, however iaido and battodo created after WW2 are two different martial arts.
This video's topic is very complicated and sensitive, so if you still have any questions please let me know here or through Instagram DM.
instagram.com/lets_ask_shogo/
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Thank you again very much for watching!
Definitely going to check out the Omake Talk as soon as I finish this video! :D
Hey Shogo, I need your opinion on something. I'm a fanfiction writer and I'm planning on writing a Naruto Fanfiction, but after watching this video, I see that the "iaido" techniques and kata used by the Samurai of Naruto look more like Battodo techniques, though Mifune, the Samurai leader, has a scene where he uses a battodo technique from an Iaido sitting position. If I were to separate Iaido and Battodo, would it make sense to separate the two tech issues by classifying Iaido as "defensive" in nature as a means of reaching spiritual enlightenment and protecting one's self in the event of a surprise attack, while battodo is "offensive" and all about ending a battle quickly or keeping the Ninja of the Naruto world from utilizing Ninjutsu and Genjutsu (their mystical techniques in the series to cast elemental spells and illusions)?
I have come to love watching your videos. Sharing your culture and your passion is something I love. I’ve trained in Shito Ryu karate since I was 16. I share many of your beliefs and concerns. My style taught five sword Katas that I still practice. I took up cutting practice using 2lt coke bottles that are more plentiful here than tatami Matt’s in the states. My teacher taught that kata is the basis of everything. That it was like learning to swim on dry land. It didn’t necessarily teach you how to swim but made you a better swimmer when you did get in the water. That the kata was like a moving encyclopedia. It helped you learn and remember techniques that you needed when you did begin to spar or fight. To me, Iaido, cutting, and kendo are the trifecta of the sword and the samurai spirit. I believe all three should be practice as different levels of the same thing. To separate them is to be like the three blind men each feeling a different part of the elephant. Each style is correct but fails to grasp the whole.
Thanks once again Shogo for another interesting episode.
Let's go my man Shogo! Spreading the word that all martial arts are equal and should respected for their differences!
Listening to your commentary brings me a feelings of peace and empathy. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and knowledge. Peace!
I briefly trained a koryu kenjitsu/battojutsu style for a few years. the purpose of training in koryu is so starkly different than modern budo styles.
Koryu are interested in preserving the art form above all else; the personal achievement or fulfillment of the practitioner isn’t really a priority. That’s not to say that old-styles can’t be fulfilling, but it’s not what the arts are focused on. They are aiming to train folks who can uphold and preserve an historical artifact, and if that’s not a thing you can do, they don’t want you. It was a crazy experience totally unlike any other martial art I’ve practiced. And I DEFINITELY didn’t have the discipline for it back when I trained.
Great vid as always
I really enjoy your videos and would like to offer my own experience to improve our mutual understanding. Although you are correct on the differences between these two martial arts, there are some inaccuracies here. Battojutsu existed as part of larger samurai arts well before Hayashizaki Jinsuke formalized Iaido. While the bow was the primary weapon of samurai for centuries, I think it's shortsighted to think that they would simply draw their swords without any special techniques to do it efficiently and effectively. For example, Kashima Shinryu was established in 1473 and already included battojutsu in its curriculum. Whether tachi or more modern variants of katana, these warriors would practice every aspect of warfare, not just start once the sword is unsheathed.
The difference between the two jutsu is intent. Battojutsu draws the sword with intent to continue combat. Iaijutsu involves the complete acts of drawing, cutting, and sheathing with the assumption that combat has ended (often from an anachronistic seated position, but I think it's okay to imagine such exercises as useful for drawing wakizashi as well).
This difference can be seen in the etymology of these terms. 抜刀 (batto) literally translates as "to draw out (抜) a sword (刀)". On the other hand, iai has a more esoteric translation, with its characters, 居合, not having such a clear cut meaning (pun intended, of course!). 居 can mean "to reside; to be; to exist", while 合 likely means "to meet". So... "To exist in the meeting" might be the easiest translation to English.
Thus, battojutsu existed as very real exercises to be used in warfare as part of an overall knowledge set, while Iaido and its techniques were developed with the modern mindset of martial arts. Same as Battodo, these can be seen as sports in the same manner as sportified karate. This is not to diminish these practices as they are useful in many ways, but they are far removed from practical combat. As someone who has practiced Okinawan karate and kobudo for decades (as well as other schools), I see many students fail to understand this distinction.
Kata are training tools; crucial parts of a curriculum but useless without the complete set of knowledge. In this manner, I would consider Battodo an incomplete art as much as Iaido. You've drawn a sword and cut... Then what? That's why koryu kata and kihon involve a continued state of zanshin, mindfulness that combat hasn't ended after the technique. Cutting tatami mats is very useful for testing edge alignment, strength, and other aspects, but it is only part of a larger concept of martial science.
Once again, I do not seek to diminish these practices. Only discuss the difference between modern schools and the actual combat from which they were born. One final note on practicality: it isn't recommended to sheath one's sword directly after combat as shown in these arts. Blood in the saya is not a good thing for blade maintenance...
Zanshin is practiced in Battodo before noto, as is chiburi. Sorry, just had to pull you up on that one.
I believe that learning to avoid violence is an important part of enlightenment through martial arts. But a foundational part of that is an intimate knowledge of how to do violence and injure or kill someone. Without the understanding that comes from that knowledge the value of peace and nonviolence is neither properly appreciated or understood.
An essential element of pacifism is the ability to do violence and choosing not to. Without the ability to do great violence choosing not to do harm is not pacifism, but simply harmlessness.
I used to love the idea of moral and self development in martial arts but from what ive seen, that only holds true for people who are already violent and restless and therefor need discipline and an outlet for their negativity. For regular people, martial arts have the tendency to foster egotistical and violent behavior. Also, thanks for explaining what i always used to wonder about while watching the rurouni kenshin series 20 years ago.
Thank you as always Shogo! I've always wondered why Iaido don't do tameshigiri, but now I know! 🙇🙇🙇👏👏👏
Thanks to you, I know the basics of sword drawing in Iaido (only 3) and its fairly easy
This video of yours... Albeit not my first I have watched by your person; has been my greatest reason of my well-earned respect to you, your style of production and manners in explaining your personal views/observations in a very digestible way regardless the side of the argument one may be choosing to situate themselves in.
You have also an undeniable respect to the viewers whilst trying to ensure they fully experience your videos as best they can with what ever ability you would be able to put into them.
As a random RUclips viewer, I thank you for the value you are putting into your content.
I have chosen to subscribe to view more of what it is you may have to offer.
This video, although briefly explained, also explains the difference between Iaido and Iaijutsu really nice.
When I first started Iaido, I always wondered why we weren't cutting faster and stronger. It didn't make sense to me that we are using weapons to only "demonstrate" instead of focusing on "reality".
When I told my friend about this after our Kendo practice, he recommended me to visit an Iaijutsu dojo. At first I thought it would be the same thing... but I was so wrong. The ways that are taught were different enough that I felt like I was learning a different martial art. It wasn't particularly a night and day level of difference, but the Iaijutsu dojo focused more on practicality rather than the way of doing each waza and katas like the Iaido dojo I was attending. I did love learning the practicality and other movements that seemed I could really agree on.
However, I did end up staying in the Iaido dojo, although the Iaijutsu dojo focused on practicality, some of the concepts they have clashed with what I have been learning for decades(Kendo), which made me leave. Still, I would highly recommend both dojos depending on the person of what they're looking for. Practicality vs Harmony/Self-improvement.
Japanese culture, its will power and resilience are beautiful examples of great spiritual and mental strength. Congratulations on the video!
An amazing & educational video this clip was to watch. In addition the techniques you spoke of for Iado & Battodo reminds me of how I was taught years ago by friends who were descendants of Japanese sword users including samurais that as a sword weilder you only draw your weapon to defend yourself & others & especially in a fight like or other life & death threatening situation.
Hey Shogo! Thank you for your research in the matter.
Can you make a video about fighting with two swords?
There is kata from the nitenichi-ryu and also also the kendo nito-ryu.
Not to forget the probably most famous samurai/ronin there was Miyamoto Musashi.
This was a good video on "Your swordsmanship isn't real enough", good video for all the details.
This video was incredibly formatted. Gripping from the beginning. Well done.
Ok speaking of Sowrds, in the last live of sword training, I was asking if you can do a video about head taking, not necessarily next video, but just someday please. Anyways, great video as usual, keep it up :D
As someone who used to be a Kendo and Iaido trainee (in Switzerland) I enjoyed your video very much, thank you! Excellently made, loved your illustrations.
And yes, being used to a Iaito and seeing adn feeling what blunders happen, I‘d be very very scared at the thought using a katana - especially by beginners…
Thank you for pointing the styles out for us new to the practice of swordsmanship.
Very Cool
Thank you for making videos like this. I really enjoy watching video about Japanese culture and Japanese swordsmanship. Although i don't have a martial arts training.
I love how expressive you are
I started iaido because i thought the form is beautiful and the noto is zen in your hands. I seen tatami cutting but the smooth draw and noto is what caught my eye. great video.
Well, the WWII after effects certainly help explain why it's so hard to find kenjutsu training today. That said, understanding that the drawing techniques aren't really to be found with kenjutsu instruction is something worth bearing in mind, as while having an already drawn sword may make sense on a battlefield, but for something like a duel (or an encounter with bandits), the ability to skillfully draw the sword does indeed seem like something worth picking up.
All of these arts certainly seem to have their merits; thank you for clarifying a bit further as I decide where my focus will be.
Thank you for that explanation. That clears up some things I did not understand thinking both were parts of the same martial art. The softball vs. baseball comparison seems very accurate from an American perspective. I share your view that the various disciplines should not need to compete against each other or look down on the other. They each have their purpose and value for their appropriate situations. I would think by having a greater understanding of multiple disciplines you have a wider knowledge and skill set to handle a greater amount of situations. Competence is the well-spring of genuine confidence and character.
I think it was a Roman/Greek Philosopher who said something like: Never separate the scholars from the warriors or your scholars will become cowards and you warriors will become fools.
very interesting video, clear explanations !! perfect for French people, thank you. I wish you'll have your million likers ...
Thank you for this video. This really has answered alot of questions I've had about Japanese swordsman styles I've had.
Arigatou Shogo sensei. I've been waiting for this kind of explanation about Battojutsu, I mean Battodo and Iaido.
Could you do a vid about the differences between Kata and Waza? And go deeper into each single term! ThX! :)
Thank you, for all that you share and the gifts and the history of Japan and its culture I am truly grateful, as a student of kendo and the iaido under Sensei Kenshi Nabashima Sama and the Dallas Fort worth Kendo & Iaido club it's nice we can all share culture and ideas between one another and that we are all connected, Domo ‼️‼️‼️‼️
Yeah it be nice to bring them all together maybe use Iaido as a starter course. To understand and appreciate sword handling. Then put Kendo so students get the practice and see the importance of the movements and reality of combat. THEN if the students spirit and morals are upright finish with the cutting arts.
I've trained several different styles over the year. There is a lot of sword within the Jujitsu Syllabus I follow. I also started ZNKR (iaido) a couple of years ago to support personal development. I have now had my school accepted into the Zen Nihon Batto Do Renmei so this is a work in practice, but visiting japan in October / November really helped my development in Batto
Shogo-san, thank you for your wonderful videos about Japanese culture and martial arts. I am very impressed with each presentation. Not only is the detailed knowledge you give us so well researched, you communicate it very clearly with superb public speaking skills in English. What I appreciate the most is your patient kindness, generosity and gentle heart. Thank you so very much.
I'm new to your channel and realy like the content your putting out!And just subbed!!I used to train iaido back in 2012,but I got diagnosed with a Nasty disease about a year after I started and couldn't keep up training in class, so I trained at my house at my own pace..Thankyou again for the Awesome videos!!✌
Thank you for your videos Shogo-san.
I really like your format and pace a lot. It is obvious to me that you take great care and preparations for your videos.
I enjoy and learn a lot from you!
Thank you for such an excellent explanation. This video puts it clearer than any other I've ever seen before my.
Well done mate 👍
Very nice video! I have been involved in a variety of arts since 1975. I was just beginning training in Iaido when the onset of MS made my legs not like kneeling and standing. That made practicing the first 5 kata that I learned next to impossible. I still train what I can, but if I want to learn Iaido, I would have to find someone willing to teach me only the standing forms.
love the channel! been watching everyday since i found it! great job Shogo! keep it up and thank you!
Muso jikiden eishin ryu combines battodo and iaido and the sitting forms can all be reproduced standing (infact several of the omori ryu originally were standing kata). Also, we do tameshigiri as well.
While there's certainly a big differencr between kendo federation iaido and all japan battodo, most of the other schools have different ways of combining the two into a more comprehensive sword art.
Must also remember that many eishin ryu sword styles still stem from pre edo styles which used a tachi rather than uchigatana. Even the katori shinto ryu predates edo though it is a more all encompassing martial art system.
Lots of great info and insights here. Just wanted to add my observations and understandings through my studies as well. Love your channel!
Your vision on this topic is correct. Wisdom is by your side: let it continue guide you the rest of your life.
BTW: great content.
Great Video Shogo. It's always a pleasure and grand learning experience watching your videos
Finally I've felt like 天啓がきた to me, now I understand why these things are called like "ninjutsu" and "karate-do". Thank you for the content, Shogo!
I trained Aiki-Toho-Iai for about 10 years before cutting with a real sword. The cuttings went very well, and I attribute that to having good teachers that I trusted ;-) It gave a strange sensation afterwards, It was the realization that these cuts could have killed or hurt someone, and that led to some deep reflection.
Man i always thought u do all the cutting stuffs in iaido. Ive heard abt battodo but i didnt do any research abt it. Thanks Shogo-san for clearing this up ❤
Actual cutting is extremely important for proper grip and angles and all that.
From a _very_ practical point of view, some claims of the Battodo federation fail to some extent, but I'll only stick to one: The weapon. A shinken sword.
The katana, first of all is not a _cheap_ weapon. It is simply not available for the general public. In addition to this, it is not a very resistant weapon either. In fact, it's quite fragile. If the alignment (hasuji) of the cutting angle is off, not good. The katana can bend and even break on contact with the target (this target does not have to be a hard object for this to happen). This occurs with tatami mats quite often and to experienced people. A piece of broken blade on impact can become a really nasty projectile. No safe by any means, even for a sengoku _bushi_ standars.
In addition to this, it must be taken into account that the katana blade (the nakago section of it) is attached to the handle (tsuka) by means of a simple bamboo bolt (in some cases two) called mekugi. This _mekugi_ is forced with certain techniques to the point of torqueing. The most famous of this "mekugi-torqueing" techniques is perhaps _kesagake_ (and gyaku-kesa as shown in 9:40). A broken mekugi means a flying blade. Upwards or downwards, nobody wants a flying blade.
Regardless of all this, the video is magnificent. Shogo San expresses himself in a pleasant and clear way. Very accurate. I wish you Shogo a lot of success always.
Your effort is greatly appreciated.
Cheers!
your analogy of baseball and softball was the perfect metaphor to draw on. :) Ohayogoizimasu for yet another layer of knowledge! :D
Your presentation is impeccable, Shogo!
Shodo-san, thank you for teaching me more about my family's culture!
Love all of your videos! Stay healthy and safe
I am very interesting in armed martials arts from all the world. I like the way the "do" focus on the metal aspect of oneself, but also the aspect of "jutsu" to cultivate the skill. In Historical Europeans Martials Arts practise more the "jutsu" of the ancients tecnique that some masters write 500 years ago, but I also believe that a strong mind is important in martials arts and in life in general, so i guess the "do" and the "jutsu" parts are important to me. Thanks you for the video
I've been waiting for this
Finally..
Ok So
Laido
Battojutsu/KenJutsu
I now Can See The Path I want take.
Thank you for this very informative Video.
Again many thanks for such an excellent video brings an overview on these topics! As a beginner in Iaido it's great to go to the fundamentals of this "Art". As a student in many martial arts for over 20 years, I like to appreciate and underline your point to be respectfull versus other martial arts forms, and thier suggestions to react on a battle situation. I do reccomend to participate in seminars several martial arts are trained, to respectfully feel and train other ways to react on a situation.
Anyhow, again my deepes thanks for your great videos.
PS may you can add a video focused on the right prononciation of japanese Words? EG I was astonished on the right prononciation of Tsuba
Actually I like to know how the wakizashi fit into the Samurais beliefs and combat strategies. People buy them but it seems like nobody ever uses them or speaks about specifically training with a wakizashi. And I also kind of like to know if the Ninja use the same techniques or did they have to adapt their own
It was a defensive sword mainly from my understanding
isn't it the sword that was used to cut your own guts when certain conditions were met?
also it was the one to fight with indoors where a longer sword could not be used effectively, i believe.
@@s_s-g4d Wakizashi was used as a backup weapon. Samurai would either carry that, a Tanto or both. But a special Tanto made for ceremonies were made for that. Or on the battlefield, anything sharp would be used.
Thank you for sharing this information. Your videos are very helpful and presented very logically and concise. Excellent job.. Keep up the good work.
Solid information from this video keep up the good work.
Ah... I see the dilemma here. You have taken something that was whole and broken it into 3 off-kilter pieces. To brings things back into harmony you'll need a new system called iaibattokenjutsudo (居合抜刀剣術道) - now you can cut straw mats with bamboo swords while still maintaining a peaceful heart and mind, and more importantly everyone's safe😜
The modern martial arts of Kendo, Iado and Battodo are intended to be accessible to modern practitioners. I would not characterize the separation of Japanese swordsmanship into 3 different paths as “off-kilter”. Rather, it is better to see it as 3 branches of the same tree. Or 3 areas of specialization and specific training needs.Some dedicated martial artists train in the multiple systems to become “well rounded”. The most dedicated study Koryu or the “old school” martial arts that pre-exist the split. Old school Systems often teach a variety of weapons and unarmed techniques that formed the basis of completely separate modern martial arts like Kendo, Judo, etc. In some cases the separation of modern martial arts is for convenient and obvious reasons: swords are different from grappling. In other cases it is for accessibility and adaptation to the needs of the modern era. The only a few of the oldest and very traditional schools have persisted down the ages; but are not for the general public. Access is quite limited and training is a lifetime commitment; almost a feudal obligation. Few modern people today have what it takes to become part of a living tradition.
The split of traditional swordsmanship training into three different martial arts is done partly due to the specific kind of training, equipment needed and the level of experience needed for each. Kendo is safe enough for children as young as 5 or six years old to begin. It is part of the general physical education in public schools. Iaido and Battodo require a much more serious level of training to be safe and to learn properly. Historically, those techniques would not be taught until much later in a swordsman’s development. So taken in context it is less strange to separate the larger tradition of swordsmanship into sub-groups. It is like having a different license for driving a car, motorcycle or commercial vehicle.
Kendo is most analogous to European fencing: the emphasis is on competition between two swordsmen to simulate a duel. In the 18th & 19th C. both traditions of Kendo and Fencing evolved to train a generation of young gentlemen who grew up in an urban, wealthy and civilian lifestyle. The weapons used in war were not suitable for safe competition between students; so specialized masks, gloves and body armor was developed along side safe training weapons like the bamboo shinai and the fencing foil. In the previous Middle Ages and Renaissance eras, when warfare was endemic; both Japan and Europeans used wooden swords to train and in some older traditional schools they were continued to be employed. Various Kenjutsu schools like Katori Shinto Ryu can be traced to the 15th Century and use wooden weapons as well as real weapons to this day. Their emphasis nowadays is on preserving the knowledge of the past via kata and has little to no open competition. European fencing schools developed in parallel with specialized equipment, techniques and purposes. German Mensuer became a rite of passage for University Fraternities. French Smallsword & Italian dueling saber developed into a dueling culture and eventually into Olympic Fencing. British Single Stick evolved into a sport; out of a body of knowledge for broadsword and military sabre. All are modern and civilian martial arts that came about as swords decreased in importance as a weapon of war. All seek to cultivate a warrior ethos and impart a culture closer emphasize competition with safety weapons, masks, padded gloves and jackets. More similar to Single Stick, than what Olympic fencing has become; Kendo developed out of a need for more competitive training methods than kata alone could provide. As the peaceful Edo period continued, generations of samurai grew up in a world without war and became government administrators. To preserve their identity as warriors in a world without war, Kendo evolved. In Kendo a courageous spirit, physical training and mental toughness is more important than specific weapon techniques. In the Edo period Iaijutsu / Iaido was developed as a kind of quick draw defense against ambush and assassination attempts in urban close quarters combat. Battojutsu / Battodo developed to maintain good techniques for edge alignment and cutting with the sword that Kendo alone could not teach. Tatami was used because it was commonly available. Condemned criminals were sometimes killed by dismemberment with the sword to test quality of swords and the samurai’s mettle. It goes with out saying that such death sentences are no longer practiced and were outlawed by the Meiji government in the 19th Century. One of the reasons why all martial arts and Kendo in particular was banned by the American occupational government from 1945 to 1954 was because during WWII, some war crimes were committed against POWs in imitation of those outdated and cruel notions. I think that may be why in 1954, at the end of the American post war occupation of Japan; cutting techniques were deliberately left out of the official curriculum for the RE-establishment of Kendo & Iaido. There was a significant shift in the new character of Japanese martial arts; away from fighting and more towards a philosophy of self improvement and cultural development that began in the peaceful Edo period. Basically to take the best parts of traditional martial arts and culture in order to rebuild Japanese society in a modern, nonviolent and respectful context for the future.
The specter of the war can’t be overstated. I believe that the fusion of new and old spirit of the RE-established martial arts as a “way of peace, culture and for the improvement of humanity” is a key part of Japanese success today. It has gone a long way to repair the perversion of the samurai spirit that had occurred during the Imperial Expansionist era. During those dark years, the martial arts were used to militarize and indoctrinate the country by a cadre of politically opportunistic, extreme nationalists. Fascists who infiltrated the military, staged an insider coup, and dominated the government from the 1920’s till the Japan’s surrender in 1945. It has passed from living memory for most of us today, but would have been very much in the fore of every one’s mind during the last half of the 20th Century. It is interesting to note that the All Japan Battodo Federation was established in 1977, over 20 years after the All Japan Kendo Federation and Iaido club.
On a parallel development track, HEMA or Historical European Martial Arts is more concerned with rediscovering techniques than philosophy or mindset. To this end it has developed to include sword cutting as part of the curriculum. To my knowledge HEMA is a recent development from the 1990s (as the internet made the research and translation of historical manuals available to the public). Practitioners seek to revive Medieval and Pre-Modern styles of European swordsmanship that have been lost to time. I find it interesting that HEMA has been inspired by Battodo to develop cutting exercises of their own to help understand how swords function in a safe but realistic way. Tatami, plastic bottles, cardboard tubes, ballistic gel and sometimes meat targets (pork usually, as pigs carcasses are used in forensic investigations to simulate human flesh.)
@@jaytomioka3137 tl;dr 🤪
@@Nokman013 💀💀
As it happens, I study Iai-Battojutsu, which does a good job of trying to blend the salient aspects of those two arts.
Thank you, for explaining this, Shogo-dono. I have pondered this question several times; "how is battojutsu different from battodo" or how is "aikido different from aikijutsu". I am a new follower to your channel, but I find it very enlightening. Arigatou gozaimasu.
A Samurai must always be polite, even towards his enemies.
Thanks for the explanation and sharing, in America this information is reserved or simply the teachers decide not to comment on it until the student has grown in the art that is practiced.
True budoka you are!! Thanks 🙏. I love your teaching and your show.Domo arigato gozaimasu. Keep up the good work. Those arts must not die. 👍
I appreciate your videos. You have inspired my to sign up for classes in Denton Texas Denton Iaido! Thank you! Keep the videos coming. I also got copy of Miyamoto Musashi’s book of the Five Rings.
I think that both are very important, one is an art for your hearth and spirit as you say. The other one is kind of a time machine to remember traditions and avoid those to be looses forever.
Both have their purpose and both are nice to my pov.
As always, another fantastic video. Thank you for the information. This was an unresolved question that I had carried with me for years.
I personally feel that all schools of thought concerning Japanese swordsmanship have a lot to teach us, so I try to practice Iaido teachings, Battodo teachings, and Kendo teachings. It is difficult to learn all of them, but I have my whole life to do it and I am looking forward to spending my years training and appreciating them all.
Thankyou for the elightenment, shogo-san! This video is very informative, I feel a little more knowledgeable.
So I've come out of this solidified in the fact I love kendo the most, being able to whack someone with a stick and not seriously injure them is one of the most fun things I've ever done. Iaido seems heavily uncomfortable as I've damaged the nerves near my knees so I can't kneel without shearing pain coursing through me, and Battodo just doesn't look like fun, it seems more like bragging rights than an actually enjoyable thing to do though that doesn't mean I won't give them a look in the future. But yeah Kendo just has the best feeling for me because outside of competition being able to test your skill against your friends and still be able to enjoy a meal at the same "table" after is a great experience, though I'm far from an expert. I see no harm if everyone enjoys what they're doing.
I too practice Iaido, and hope to test for Shodan next year, after the dojo reopens post Covid. We are looking for a new training hall though.
My dojo is Doshi Kai and under the auspices of the AEUSKF.
Brilliant thank you.
I practice Eishin Ryu Battoho, you have just answered a lot of questions I had but was struggling to find out.
This helped me understand these two martial arts a lot better as I've always struggled in understanding how they're different. However, while you did great in explaining how iaido and battodo are different, I still don't grasp how iaijutsu and battojutsu are different. They're both meant for attacking which means both involve real katanas and cutting something, so what are the differences here?
I train in Iai-Tate-Do in Canada. We do actual cutting and kata. We also have some forms with a partner.
Very strong presentation.
Shogo itoko, thanks for the video sir! Happy Father's Day to you.