Tameshigiri Experience in Gifu
We, the samurai performance team “KATANAYA ICHI,” recently got to try “Tameshigiri” (test cutting) with a genuine Japanese katana in Gifu Prefecture. Tameshigiri is an extremely rare and valuable activity where you cut real targets, like bamboo and rolled straw, with an authentic sword.
Holding a real katana and cutting a target with my own hands—this sense of the extraordinary was truly special. It was an unforgettable thrill that you absolutely cannot experience in everyday life.
I’ve been doing stage sword-fighting for 24 years, but this was my very first time cutting a target with a real sword!
When I first swung down on the bamboo, the sword just bounced off with a loud “BOING!” (laughs). Everyone in the room burst out laughing—it was a bit embarrassing but funny to think about now. But thanks to expert guidance from Swordsmith Masaya, my form quickly improved, and soon I was able to slice cleanly through the bamboo.
Next, I challenged the rolled straw target (makiwara). After several attempts, I finally landed a perfect, clean cut, and everyone cheered—I was so happy!
I truly realized that to make a good cut, it’s not just about the quality of the sword; the correct posture, cutting angle, and body movement are all crucial. Samurai couldn’t cut through armor, so they aimed for the gaps. Swinging a heavy sword and striking an opponent in a split second—it really made me feel anew how intense the training for the samurai back then must have been.
This Tameshigiri experience also had a great impact on my own stage sword-fighting. I’m now much more deeply aware of which part of the blade to use for cutting and at what angle to block an attack.
It’s a fantastic adventure, not just for Japanese people (like shooting a gun overseas!), but especially for foreign visitors. I wholeheartedly recommend this activity for an authentic, hands-on Japanese experience!
Leave a Reply