San Diego Iaido
San Diego Iaido is a school of classical Japanese swordsmanship located in Carlsbad. The head instructor is Miki Minobu, who was granted the right to teach by the famous late grandmaster, Iwata Norikazu. Training is mainly focused on drawing the sword and striking from the sheathed position. Most training is performed individually but there are also paired practices to teach timing, distance, and the nuances of attack and defense.
category:
Martial Arts
Instructors:
Miki Minobu
PERFORMANCE TIME
5:30pm – 6:00pm
Kendo
Iaido is the Japanese martial art of drawing and cutting with the sword in a single, fluid motion. The term comes from iai (“being present, in harmony”) and dō (“the way”), emphasizing not only technical skill but also mental composure and readiness. Practitioners typically use a blunt practice sword (iaitō) or a live blade (shinken) once advanced, and training focuses on precise, deliberate movements rather than sparring.
Iaido practice centers on solo forms called kata, each beginning and ending with the sword sheathed. These forms simulate encounters with one or more opponents and emphasize proper posture, awareness, timing, and smooth transitions between drawing, cutting, and re-sheathing. Because iaido is primarily a non-combative art, it develops mindfulness, discipline, and situational awareness as much as martial skill.
The roots of iaido trace back to the 16th century, when Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu (1546–1621) systematized techniques of quick sword-drawing. Over time, many schools (ryūha) emerged, each with its own interpretations and kata. In the 20th century, the All Japan Kendo Federation established a standardized set of seitei gata to unify iaido practice and provide a common foundation across styles.
Today, iaido is practiced worldwide as both a martial and meditative discipline. While competitions exist—where judges assess form, precision, and spirit—it remains deeply rooted in personal refinement, embodying the principle of hei jō shin (a calm and balanced mind).
