The art of Iaido would seem to be a simple one.The student
sits or stands quietly, draws out a blade and cuts through the
air all in one stroke, then puts the blade away again. To the
casual observer there is not a lot to see.

However, Iaido is an exacting art that demands a high level of mental concentration. It is an art of precise motions with only centimeters of tolerance and split second timing.It is also an individual art that involves the student and the sword struggling
to achieve perfection of form.

Beyond this physical aspect, Iaido is perhaps the most philosophically oriented of all of the Japanese budo arts. The name "Iaido" itself is composed of three ideograms "I, "AI" and "DO"."I" means to "reside" or "be" in a certain place; "AI" means "harmony"; and "DO" means "road" or "path". Hence, "Iaido" means the path to finding harmony in any situation in which
one finds oneself - to be prepared for any eventuality.

Iaido is a very traditional martial art. Japanese culture, etiquette and history are all important aspects of Iaido taught at the JCCC. Both the traditional forms of Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu, which originate in the late 16th century, and the modern forms developed by the All Japan Kendo Federation are taught.

Classes at the JCCC are taught by Goyo Ohmi 7th Dan renshi; Carole Galligan, 6th Dan; Enore Gardonio, 5th Dan; Peter Schramek, 5th Dan; Tracy Sheppard, 5th Dan and Michael Gan, 4th Dan.

Beginners need only wear loose clothing. Kneepads are recommended.A limited supply of bokuto are available for
those who do not have one.All levels are welcome.