Samurai Swordsmanship: The Batto, Kenjutsu, and Tameshigiri of Eishin-Ryu

by Masayuki Shimabukuro, Carl E. Long

Describing the principles and techniques that define Japan’s most popular style of swordsmanship, this martial arts manual gives practitioners master-level instruction. This book is a collection of the most effective and proven fighting methods spanning from the feudal to the modern eras. It illuminates the art with masterful photography and is accompanied by in-depth descriptions of the methods perfected by Japan’s ancient warrior class. Providing instruction on the etiquette, fundamental footwork, striking, countering, defensive tactics, test cutting, maintenance, and safety needed for proficiency in authentic swordsmanship, this expert guide transports martial arts practitioners beyond mere physical technique and opens the door to self-mastery through the use of the samurai sword.

Genres: Martial Arts

250 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2011

Reviews

[Alessandro Amici · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bellissimo! Un manuale veramente completo.

[Qasim Zafar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though I am not a formal student of Iaido, nor have I been in the past, it is a subject which has always been something which I have sought to understand and learn when opportunity presented itself. So, when I bought this book I could no longer wait for a teacher.

Overall I really enjoyed this book. I was able to find some video instruction and exercise aids which supplemented the amterial in this book very well, and after going through the forms in this book three times each, I am sticking with trying to master a few basic ones. With the lack of an instructor I have found myself focusing more on the feel of everything and what my body and gut is telling me and attempting to correct my posture that way. For example, if a posture and motion does not produce a clean sound with the practice sword then I will practice that motion in various ways until I feel that I have gotten it right.


Here are a few resources I have used with this book:

1. Masayuki Shimabukuro Samurai Swordsmanship: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
2. Iaido Katas: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
3. Darbee - Katana Workout: http://darebee.com/events/katana-week...