Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Iaido is a sports club in Adelaide, Australia dedicated to practising the Japanese martial art of Iai-Do. Founded by Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu during the Muromachi Period in 1550 AD, Iai-Do focuses on smooth and controlled drawing of the Katana (Japanese sword) from its scabbard, performing offensive and defensive movements against an imaginary opponent, and then sheathing the sword. Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Iaido consists of twenty-nine waza (movements), many of which begin from the formal kneeling position called seiza and end with the sheathing of the sword (noto).
One distinguishing feature of Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Iaido is that all the instructors are certified from Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Japan, making the Adelaide Dojo unique to the other Dojos worldwide. Shihan Chong, the Kaicho (leader) of Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Ohgokai, is a direct student of Grand Master Kimura HekiHo of Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Heiho Honbu, Nagoya, Japan. Shihan Chong has also earned a Dan qualification in Hokushin Itto Ryu Kenjutsu and received a Sandan qualification from the Zenkoku Iai-Do Renmei (The National Iai-Do Federation of Japan) in 1986.
The club emphasises the benefits that can be gained from practising Iai-Do, which include enhanced mind concentration, self-discipline, fitness and conditioning, increased awareness, self-confidence, respect for oneself and others, and a sense of responsibility.
Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Iaido has branch Dojos not only in Australia but also in New Zealand and South Korea. The Adelaide Dojo, called Ken Ou Kan (剣皇館) Honbu Dojo, conducts classes at Goodwood Primary School. The class times are on Sunday from 10 am to 11 am, Monday from 7 pm to 8 pm, and Wednesday from 7 pm to 8 pm.
Shihan Chong and his family have dedicated over forty years to promoting and teaching Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Iaido. The students of Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Ohgokai appreciate Shihan Chong's commitment and are proud to have him as their teacher.
For more information about Hokushin Shinoh Ryu Iaido and the Adelaide Dojo, visit their website or contact them via email.