Shinkendo is the most serious and comprehensive style.Although it began as a form of stage fighting using plastic swords to “sell” hits for the camera, it has since developed into a popular combat sport.

Chanbara, sometimes known as “the art of practice,” is what you study if you wanted to mimic the samurai of Japanese cinema.

Iaido marries kenjutsu’s efficiency with kendo’s continual search for personal growth.

It was re-branded from kenjutsu in order to differentiate itself from kenjutsu’s lethality.

Kendo is more of a modern martial art, with techniques intended to improve one’s sense of self and honor.

Tsukahara Bokuden, its most famous practitioner, killed 100 men in duels and survived 37 trips to the battlefield.

Kenjutsu began life as a military discipline, intended for killing.

The effectiveness of a style is directly related to its intended purpose.

Aikiken – This Japanese sword fighting style blends aikido with swordsmanship.Īs if that rundown of these styles was not already a clue, different Japanese sword fighting styles are suited for different purposes.

Shinkendo – This Japanese sword fighting style is the “real way of the sword” and focuses on techniques involving properly edged blades.

Goshindo – This Japanese sword fighting style, also known as chanbara, mixes modern sensibilities with kenjutsu practice.

Iaido – This Japanese sword fighting style is concerned with optimal energy expenditure, blending drawing and striking into one motion.

Kendo – The “way of the sword,” notable for its considerable protection.

Kenjutsu – “Techniques of the sword” that developed during the tumult of the Kamakura Period.

An Overview of The Japanese Sword Fighting Styleīefore we delve into the specifics of the various kinds of Japanese sword fighting style, we must first list those styles and give a brief overview of each. This article will highlight several types of Japanese sword fighting style, as well as cover the focus, effectiveness, origins and gear involved in those styles. As these blades have changed form over time, so have the techniques behind their use. Japan is a land that has been admired for centuries because of its incredible swords.

Iaido draw stance art