Taiwan Taikai 2026 Reflections

Author: Jin Hong

Photo Credits: Jin Hong, Angela, Mr Qwek

The Taiwan Taikai was a first for me. Despite practicing Iaido at Genyokan for some years, I have yet to participate in the overseas seminars offered by the Dojo. The decision to join the Taiwan Taikai in 2026 came from a desire to venture out of my comfort zone as an Iaido practitioner and to put myself in a new environment. This was also part of a broader intent to push for growth in my personal life. The philosophy of Budo emphasises self-improvement and it is important to seek opportunities to pursue this, both in Iaido and in life.

Experience as a first-time participant

It was an interesting experience to participate in an overseas seminar and be put in a different environment than what I am used to. There was a blend of the accustomed – in terms of well-practiced Wazas and Reiho procedures, and the novel – mainly in terms of the medium of instruction (Chinese) and its associated terminologies. I tried my best to stay grounded by executing familiar moves in an unfamiliar environment.

Overall Reflections

All in all, the experience was enjoyable thanks to the hospitality of everyone, including my own dojo mates. I am grateful for the good company from the Singapore delegation and the friendliness of the Taiwanese Taikai participants. It was meaningful to receive instruction and perspectives from a different cultural lens.

It was also an eye-opening experience to personally see that many people out there are passionate about the same art as we are, practising the same forms despite differences in geography and culture. The realisation that Iaido serves as a bridge that links myself to others so far away and living such different lives was heartening to know.

For me at least, this Taikai experience was a moment of “Ichigo-Ichi-e”, where people walking different paths in life found themselves in a common experience of practicing, training and improving their Iaido together just for that few days.