Sword Masters Competition At Kashima Shrine

Some of the oldest samurai sword techniques were developed here in Kashima during the mid 16th century. Kashima is still home to many sword masters, and Kashima shrine is home to an annual martial arts competition. Different schools and martial artists gather and showcase their top techniques and students. A couple weeks ago, I got to see one of these competitions, it started at nine in the morning and went on for five hours.

The event was wild! Great masters coming out doing feats of incredible skill. Some fierce displays with wood swords and padding. Then intense frightening displays with live steel sword work.

One sword master was a shock! A little old lady; dyed red hair, thick librarian glasses, frail and needing help just to climb the stairs. Then she draws her samurai sword, and with extreme precision and skill, she swiftly, powerfully displays her deadly skill. I've never seen anything like it!

Each display showcased a different technique. Some would feature unique weapons. One of the highlights was seeing one master use a chain scythe to disarm his opponent then wrap the chain around his neck and pull him to the ground. It's the kind of thing you would see in a movie and just assume it's one of those embellishments. But there it was, this guy swinging a real chain scythe with a real live blade, wrapping it around his opponent's neck! One master demonstrated sitting idly, while an opponent would attempt to sneak up and steal his sword, then spring to action and dispatching his opponent with swift violence. The whole event was filled with surprises.

This was insane to watch. I feel incredibly lucky to have witnessed this event. I am very happy to get to share this with everyone. I hope everyone has an awesome day, and beware the elderly, you never know which one is a secret sword master!