

Depending on the program, participants may also be able to try their hand at cutting with a sword. You’ll have a chance to don an iaido uniform, learn about the spirit and etiquette of the martial art, and practice correct forms and how to handle a Japanese sword. Hayashizaki Iai Shrine, located in Murayama City, the birthplace of iaido, offers a variety of programs. This martial art puts an emphasis on the formation of character through mental training rather than swordsmanship, and is ultimately about the pursuit of harmony. Now, it involves fighting against an imaginary enemy. The discipline originated about 450 years ago in Oshu (present-day Murayama City, Yamagata Prefecture) Since then, the essence of iaido has been practiced using techniques handed down from generation to generation. Iaido is based on a sword technique in which the practitioner instantly draws a sword in its scabbard while seated and strikes the opponent. At spots like the Okinawa Karate Kaikan, newbies and novices can try a plan taught by the Okinawa Dento Karatedo Shinkokai (traditional karate promotion association) or observe a demonstration by high-grade karate masters. At the Shuri Kannon-do Temple in Naha City, you can join a morning training session or combine your karate practice with zen meditation. Depending on your level of proficiency, you can try a full-fledged training or take part in a introductory session. There are four main types of Okinawan karate (Shorin-ryu, Goju-ryu, Uechi-ryu, and Kobudo), and about 400 dojos throughout the prefecture. Peace and respect make up the essence of this martial art. Karate focuses on self-defense techniques that train the mind and body. However, traditional forms of Okinawan karate also incorporate hand-weapons like staffs, prongs, or nunchucks. Karate is done empty-handed, and the basic moves include punches, kicks, and blocks.


Since then, the sport has spread to mainland Japan as well as overseas, and there are currently about 130 million karate enthusiasts around the world. There are several theories about the origins of karate, but it’s generally believed that it was born in Okinawa as a fusion of the traditional Okinawan martial art of ti with Chinese martial art forms.
