What kind of uniform or clothing is Iaido practiced in?
Iaido is practiced in traditional Japanese keiko-gi and hakama. Keiko-gi is general practice clothing, similar to the tops worn by other martial arts such as Aikido, or Karate (the thick gi tops of Judo and Jujitsu are considered too thick). Colors are limited to white, navy blue, or black. A black or white hakama, traditional Japanese wide pleated pants, is worn, together with a broad obi or belt (the standard Japanese martial arts belts are too stiff and narrow) underneath. The hakama is worn for practical purposes, as the fastening straps act together with the belt to hold the sword saya, or scabbard, in place.
Is an Iai-to necessary to begin practicing Iaido?
No. Beginners are highly recommended to start with a wooden Bokuto, which is easily available in Singapore, and which does not require any license. An Iai-to represents a considerable investment and arrangements to purchase one can be made after a beginner has decided to make a long-term commitment to Iaido.
Are Iai-to available in Singapore?
Iai-to are not available in Singapore. Display swords available in Singapore at various retail outlets are not suitable for Iaido practice as their construction, balance, hilt wrappings, and fittings, are usually inappropriate for actual hard usage.
Iai-to are available either through custom order from manufacturers in Japan, or directly off-the-rack in Japan.
A basic beginner-quality Iai-to made in Japan will cost around SGD$400-500.Are Iai-to legal in Singapore?
Yes, Iai-to are legal in Singapore. However, they are considered controlled items, and require a license upon entry into Singapore from the Singapore Police Arms and Explosives Branch Licensing Division.
**Note: We have member who helps to bring in certain items.
