Kenjutsu is usually recognized as combative. It always begins with the sword already drawn with an aggressive intent. The first recorded historical systematic teachings of the Japanese long sword began about 800 AD. Since that time, over 1200 different ryu (schools) have been documented.
Many exponents of kenjutsu began to question if a higher understanding could be achieved through practice and study with the sword. These kenshi (swordsmen) developed the art of the sword (kenjutsu) into a way of the sword (kendo). To signify their advances, they coined the name kendo. This divisive move began around the middle of the 14th century.
Kenjutsu is considered a classical bujutsu (art of war or martial art), having been well formulated prior to the Meiji reformation (the classical/modern dividing line). Classical kenjutsu ryu (schools) tend to be quite secretive of their techniques, being very closed to outsiders. Classical kenjutsu ryu are the closest to classical warrior training in the modern world. Examples are Yagyu Shinkage Ryu, and Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu.
Kenjutsu wear is traditional, consisting usually of hakama (split skirt trousers), keikogi (a heavy weight jacket worn tucked in) and obi (belt).
Kata (prearranged forms or exercises) are the usual way of learning the intricate motions required. Initially one practices solo, but later pairs or multiple kenshi kata are performed. The standard practice tool is either a bokken (simulated wooden sword) or an actual live blade. Actual cutting, and thrusting of the blade against water soaked rolled mats and bamboo poles, called tameshigiri, give the more advanced exponent practice in actual impact of the live blade against a target.
Test cutting as an integral part of the overall education of the sword and sword technique. Japanese Military Toyama tameshigiri offers a no-nonsense, direct approach to cut objects such as tatami and bamboo to promote perfection. Like the karate enthusiast breaks boards for correct technique, focus and confidence, the swordsman cuts objects to understand the dynamics of cutting and follow-through.
Tameshigiri (also known as test cutting) offers swordsmen proper and correct sword control while improving cutting skills. Various cuts and procedures (including roku-dangiri) are honed to perfection.
The sword's blade produces an optimum cut when the sword enters the object at a 30-40 degree angle. All cuts – whether they are right, left, diagonal, downward, upward, horizontal or vertical – must be done with conviction, sincerity and determination.
The first few cuts are usually performed on thin tatami or bamboo. After warm-up on thinner pieces, the swordsman can go on to thicker tatami.
Everything is taken into consideration in the performance of tameshigiri. Stance, posture, rhythm, ki, angle of cut… even the way the severed pieces drop.
When test-cutting bamboo, tatami or other material, the cut must be precise. The severed piece must be propelled at a 90-degree angle from the cut’s exit. This is called tobi kata. This assures the swordsman a close-to-perfect cut. If the severed piece is propelled away incorrectly, the cut is considered inferior.
Tradition, respect and ritual are of the utmost importance. The strictest of rules are observed in tameshigiri. Long hours of practice improve harmony between the swordsman and his weapon.
