Clothing & Equipment in Iaido
This section outlines the essential and advanced gear used in Iaido practice. Beginners are welcome to start with minimal equipment and gradually build their set as they progress.
Beginner Practice Attire and Equipment
New students may begin training in a comfortable t-shirt or gi top and long trousers. Initially, a bokken — a wooden replica of the katana — will be used. Bokken may come with or without a scabbard and are safe for solo practice. Historically, they were considered weapons in their own right.
We strongly recommend knee protectors made from soft, impact-absorbing material. Many forms, especially in Muso Shinden Ryu, involve kneeling or seated positions.
We strongly recommend knee protectors made from soft, impact-absorbing material. Many forms, especially in Muso Shinden Ryu, involve kneeling or seated positions.
Standard Uniform (Keikogi)
As training progresses, students will adopt the traditional Iaido uniform:
- Iaidogi: A jacket derived from the kimono, typically black or white. An optional white underjacket may also be worn.
- Hakama: A skirt-like trouser traditionally worn by samurai. It matches the Iaidogi in color.
- Obi: A broad belt used to secure the sword at the waist, under the Hakama. Options include modern black/white belts or traditional silk kaku obi.
Iaito – The Training Sword
The iaitō (or mogitō) is a non-sharpened, metal replica of the katana used for formal Iaido training. Typically made of zinc-aluminum or rhodium alloy, it is unsharpenable but retains a realistic weight, balance, and tip. It must always be handled with respect, as if it were a live blade.
Prices vary:
Prices vary:
- Entry-level models: ~USD 150–300
- High-end custom iaitō: USD 800–1,500+
Advanced Practice: Shinken (Live Katana)
The katana (or shinken) is the live, razor-sharp sword used only by very advanced practitioners, typically Yondan (4th Dan) and above. Forged by licensed swordsmiths in Japan, these swords are crafted with thousands of layers of tempered steel.
- Cost: from USD 5,500 to USD 20,000+
- Not required for regular practice
- Use is regulated or restricted in many countries
Formal Attire for Demonstrations
At higher levels, particularly for exams or demonstrations, advanced practitioners may wear:
- A striped hakama
- A haori (overjacket) displaying the crest (mon) of their teacher or school
⚖️ Legal Notice – Sword Ownership and Transport in Singapore
(Updated in line with GEWCA, in force from July 2025)
As of 1 July 2025, Singapore’s new Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act (GEWCA) has come into force, introducing a more structured and clearly defined framework for the regulation of items such as iaitō (blunt practice swords) and shinken (live katanas). Both are now officially classified as weapons, and their import, export, and possession are subject to licensing under the new law.
Importing and Exporting a Sword. Whether blunt or sharp, any sword-like object intended for Iaido practice must now be declared and licensed. If you plan to bring a sword into Singapore — even a non-sharpened training sword — you will need to apply for an Import Licence, which typically costs SGD 22 per shipment and can be obtained through GoBusiness or TradeNet platforms. The process is usually straightforward and takes up to 3 weeks, but approval rests with the Singapore Police Force.
Possession and Transport Rules. Licensing doesn't stop at importation. It is our understanding of the new current regulation that if the sword is not completely blunt (meaning, it does have any part which is sharp, pointed or potentially able to cause harm) now requires that the item be covered by a valid Possession Licence. Please also be aware that swords must never be carried on public transport (MRT, buses, etc.) or in public areas, regardless of how securely they are packed. This applies even to blunt or decorative swords, as they can threaten or scare people regardless of any actual capability to cause harm.
Storage at the Dojo. To support members with regulatory compliance, our dojo offers storage lockers where iaitō, but not shinken can be kept, monitored 24/7 by CC TV in a room that when not in use is kept closed by the Community Center personnel. This avoids the need for regular transport. Do note, however, that equipment stored on-site remains the full responsibility of the owner, and we recommend ensuring your items are correctly declared and licensed at all times.
Assistance and Clarifications. We are happy to assist with some advice students who wish to import training equipment or better understand their responsibilities under Singapore’s updated laws. We strive to stay informed and aligned with the latest guidelines issued by the Singapore Police Force’s Licensing Division (formerly known as the Arms & Explosives Division), but please do note that your compliance to local laws and regulations is always first and foremost your own responsibility.
If in doubt, please consult us before purchasing or transporting any kind of sword to ensure full legal compliance.
As of 1 July 2025, Singapore’s new Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act (GEWCA) has come into force, introducing a more structured and clearly defined framework for the regulation of items such as iaitō (blunt practice swords) and shinken (live katanas). Both are now officially classified as weapons, and their import, export, and possession are subject to licensing under the new law.
Importing and Exporting a Sword. Whether blunt or sharp, any sword-like object intended for Iaido practice must now be declared and licensed. If you plan to bring a sword into Singapore — even a non-sharpened training sword — you will need to apply for an Import Licence, which typically costs SGD 22 per shipment and can be obtained through GoBusiness or TradeNet platforms. The process is usually straightforward and takes up to 3 weeks, but approval rests with the Singapore Police Force.
Possession and Transport Rules. Licensing doesn't stop at importation. It is our understanding of the new current regulation that if the sword is not completely blunt (meaning, it does have any part which is sharp, pointed or potentially able to cause harm) now requires that the item be covered by a valid Possession Licence. Please also be aware that swords must never be carried on public transport (MRT, buses, etc.) or in public areas, regardless of how securely they are packed. This applies even to blunt or decorative swords, as they can threaten or scare people regardless of any actual capability to cause harm.
Storage at the Dojo. To support members with regulatory compliance, our dojo offers storage lockers where iaitō, but not shinken can be kept, monitored 24/7 by CC TV in a room that when not in use is kept closed by the Community Center personnel. This avoids the need for regular transport. Do note, however, that equipment stored on-site remains the full responsibility of the owner, and we recommend ensuring your items are correctly declared and licensed at all times.
Assistance and Clarifications. We are happy to assist with some advice students who wish to import training equipment or better understand their responsibilities under Singapore’s updated laws. We strive to stay informed and aligned with the latest guidelines issued by the Singapore Police Force’s Licensing Division (formerly known as the Arms & Explosives Division), but please do note that your compliance to local laws and regulations is always first and foremost your own responsibility.
If in doubt, please consult us before purchasing or transporting any kind of sword to ensure full legal compliance.
For any other information, for joining the courses or contact us please write to: [email protected]
You can also Call/SMS/WhatsApp the number: +65 82398189 (Jack)
You can also Call/SMS/WhatsApp the number: +65 82398189 (Jack)