2025 33nd Iaido Championships and Seminar

The AKR Iaidō Board takes great pleasure in extending a warm invitation to all practitioners and enthusiasts to attend the 33rd Australian Iaidō Seminar and Championships. This significant and eagerly anticipated Event is scheduled to take place at the Mount Annan Leisure Centre from the 27th to the 29th of September 2025.

We are honoured to announce that the Event will be led by the distinguished Japanese Delegation, comprised of:

Morishima Kazuki Sensei, Kyoshi 8 Dan

Takizawa Tomomi Sensei, Kyoshi 7 Dan

These esteemed instructors, renowned both in Japan and internationally, bring with them a wealth of experience, skill, and profound knowledge of Iaidō.

Participants who had the privilege of attending the Melbourne 2024 event will surely remember the remarkable instruction provided by these masters. Their presence once again offers an invaluable opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding and refine their techniques under the guidance of two of the most skilled Iaidō teachers in the world.

Building on the momentum and shared spirit of learning fostered during the February 2025 event in Canberra, we look forward to continuing the enriching transfer of knowledge from Morishima Sensei in this unified and collaborative environment.

In adherence to the principles of traditional etiquette and to demonstrate the proper respect for the visiting instructors, it is important to note that all attendees, including senior practitioners and instructors, will be participating as students during the Seminar. Exceptions to this arrangement will only be made upon specific request from the Japanese Delegation.

While the Seminar is a cornerstone of this event, providing an exceptional opportunity to train under accomplished teachers, the program also includes other key components:

Championships: Scheduled to take place on Sunday (TBC), the Championships present a chance for participants to push their limits, test their skills in a challenging environment, and gain valuable experience performing under the watchful eyes of high-ranking Iaidōka from both Australia and Japan. It is an opportunity for personal growth and for having one’s abilities recognized in a formal setting.

Grading: The Grading session is planned for Saturday (TBC) and will be overseen by a panel announced by the Iaidō Board, incorporating senior Australian members. Candidates will have the opportunity to pursue grading up to the 5th Dan level. This is a critical occasion for those seeking to advance in their Iaidō journey and have their progress acknowledged.

Sayōnara Party: This social gathering offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere in which attendees can engage in meaningful conversations with the Japanese Delegation and connect with fellow members of the Australian Iaidō community. Tentatively planned for Sunday evening (venue and time TBC), the party provides a perfect ending to this extraordinary event.

We strongly encourage all members of the AKR Iaidō community to seize this unique opportunity to participate in what promises to be a truly memorable and enriching Event.

An indicative schedule can be found below; be advised that it may be subjected to changes:

27 September (Sat), 09:00 to 17:00

09:00 - 10:30 - Opening Ceremony and Embu

10:30 - 12:30 - ZNKR Iaidō Seminar (part 1)

12:30 - 13:30 - lunch break

13:30 - 13:45 - Grading registration

13:45 - 15:30 - Grading

15:30 - 15:45 - break

15:45 - 17:00 - ZNKR Iaidō Seminar (part 2)

28 September (Sun), 08:00 to 17:00

08:00 - 09:00 -

Championships setup

09:00 - 12:30 - 33rd Australian Iaidō Championships

12:30 - 13:30 - lunch break

13:30 - 17:00 - ZNKR Iaidō Seminar (part 3)

18:30 onwards - Sayōnara Party

29 September (Mon), 08:00 to 16:00

08:00 - 12:00 - ZNKR Iaidō Seminar (part 4)

12:00 - 13:00 - lunch break

13:00 - 15:45 - ZNKR Iaidō Seminar (part 5)

15:45 - 16:00 - Closing Ceremony