How to Learn the Techniques of Japan’s Strongest Samurai (1): Authentic Samurai Experience in Tokyo
We’ll explore “How to Learn the Techniques of Japan’s Strongest Samurai.” While the claim of who is the strongest is subjective, we believe that Mugairyu Iaido taught at the Musashi-no-Kuni Mugaikai, is among the strongest martial arts schools.
Mugairyu Had Over 1,000 Students, Including the 32 Daimyo
One reason is that Tsuji Gettan, the founder of Mugairyu, had over 1,000 students, including the 32 daimyo families during the Edo period. There were approximately 300 fiefs during this time, meaning around 10% of them had studied under Tsuji Gettan. Daimyo were feudal lords granted a stipend by the shogunate, typically controlling territories with a revenue of over 10,000 kokus of rice. In modern terms, they would be akin to local government leaders.
The fact that so many daimyo studied at this school is a testament to its strength. Tsuji Gettan trained at the Zen temple Kyukoji and achieved enlightenment at the age of 45. Renowned not only as a swordsman but also as a Zen practitioner and scholar, Gettan was said to converse on equal terms with many daimyo. He believed that swordsmanship and Zen were one and the same, and his writings were also considered top-notch. The “mu” in the name Mugai implies “Zen” itself. “Mu” means “nothingness.”
Why Not Try the Authentic Samurai Experience in Tokyo?
The primary goal of learning at a genuine iaido dojo, not a tourist show, is to embody the spirit of kobudo (ancient martial arts). Beginning and ending with courtesy is the essence of kobudo, and learning Mugairyu Iaido, which can be considered one of the strongest schools, at the Musashi-no-Kuni Mugaikai will undoubtedly provide an unforgettable experience.
Being instructed directly by a certified iaido practitioner in English while learning the spirit and etiquette of the samurai will surely become an unforgettable memory for a lifetime. Why not try the authentic samurai experience in Tokyo?