Canadian Iaido Association

Canadian Iaido Association, now in its 31st year, is a prominent martial arts school located in Victoria, British Columbia. Led by esteemed instructors such as Denton Hewgill Sensei, Kato Haruo Sensei, and Tanida Hiroshi Sensei, the school focuses on the traditional Japanese martial art of Iaido.

Iaido, the art of drawing and cutting with the samurai sword, aims to cultivate awareness, centredness, sincerity, and mental and physical harmony through the practice of traditional sword techniques. Iaidoka, or Iaido practitioners, perform predetermined techniques to replicate specific combat scenarios and learn the correct responses. Derived from Iaijutsu, Iaido is closely associated with the samurai class and Japanese nobility.

Established in 1993, the Canadian Iaido Association (ZNIR/CIA) works to promote Iaido in Canada, establish links with the All Japan Iaido Federation (ZNIR), conduct seminars with high-ranking ZNIR teachers, and administer dan examinations. The Association is a non-profit organization registered with the British Columbia Provincial Government, and its instructors are dedicated volunteers.

Recent news from the Canadian Iaido Association includes successful events such as the 2023 CIA Seminar and the Shinsa Juushinsha. With a commitment to following safety precautions and a focus on diligent practice, the Association looks forward to continuing to connect with Iaidoka and expand the practice of Iaido in Canada. Affiliated dojos across Canada and the United States can contact the Canadian Iaido Association to learn about eligibility requirements and the benefits of affiliation.

Join the Canadian Iaido Association in preserving and promoting the ancient art of Iaido in a welcoming and dedicated martial arts community.