Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu

 Get to know about this style of Iaido that can trace its lineage back about 500 years. 

What is Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu?

  • Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu (Often abbreviated to MJER in text) is one of the oldest and most widely practiced Japanese sword arts. It focuses on iaijutsu/iaido, which is the skill of drawing the sword, cutting, and finishing a fight in a single smooth sequence
  • MJER can trace its roots back to around the 1500s–1600s
  • It is considered one of the three major classical iaido schools of Japan.
  • The style was shaped over generations of swordsmen and passed down through carefully preserved lineages.
  • MJER was introduced to the UK by Fujii Okimitsu sensei in the 1970's
  • Iwata Norikazu Sensei was a Menkyo Kaiden (highest level certificate) holder and 19th generation hanshi of the ryu in both Shimomura and Tanimura ha, which were awarded to him by Mori Shigeki and Yamamoto Takuji sensei. He also held 8th dan hanshi with the ZNKR.

    Iwata Sensei is famous in the sword world of Japan and is held in the highest regard, not only as a swordsman, but as historian and writer on the subject. He unfortunately passed away on the 1st of January 2011 having dedicated the later part of his life to passing on the teachings of Oe Masaji. This he continued through the vehicle of the Roshukai.

Governance in the UK

Eikoku Roshukai  (English branch of Roshukai)

  • It is neither an organisation or an association but is based on a traditional school that has its roots in Japan that go back over 500 years.
  • Students at San Seitou Iaido Kai will need to become members of Eikoku Roshukai
  • Handbooks, courses and insurance are all available within the membership.  A regular magazine called “Obi” is sent out free every month to each member to keep them informed of news and events and to provide a forum for discussing a wide range of topics associated with Martial Arts and Iaido in particular.
  • Eikoku Roshukai is run by its members for its members. None of the participants receive any remuneration of any kind for activities associated with the group. The formula works, the membership continues to grow with members across the country.

Iwata Norikazu Sensei 1913 - 2011