Suiō-ryū (水鷗流) is a classical Japanese martial tradition (koryū) founded during the early Edo period (c. 1615). It is one of the oldest, fully preserved iaidō / kenjutsu / jōjutsu systems still practiced today. Founded by Mui no Shinden Sadatake (無意心伝 貞武), in the Shizuoka region (Sunpu); it maintains an unbroken menkyo-kaiden koryū. Suiō-ryū (水鷗流) is a classical samurai martial tradition specializing in iaijutsu, kenjutsu, jō, naginata, and close-quarters grappling, known for its fluid, natural movement and deep adherence to Edo-period combative principles.
The curriculum includes a comprehensive martial system, including Iaijutsu (居合術) — sword drawing; Kenpō / Kenjutsu (剣法 / 剣術) — sword fighting; Kogusoku (小具足) — armored grappling with short weapons; Jōhō (杖法) — staff techniques; Naginata-jutsu (薙刀術) — glaive techniques; and Wakizashi & Kodachi waza (脇差 / 小太刀) — short-sword work. A hallmark of Suiō-ryū is its depth—it is a multi-weapon system with strong internal cohesion.
Suiō-ryū is famous for its tatehiza-based iaijutsu, seated with one knee raised. This posture reflects battlefield conditions; restricted interior spaces; and stealthy readiness. The school emphasizes fluid movement; subtle footwork; improvisational feeling (mushin, “no-mind”); practical combative logic (riai); and economy of motion.
Translation
水 (sui) — water
鷗 (ō) — seagull
流 (ryū) — school, lineage, tradition
水鷗流 (Suiō-ryū) = “School of Water and Seagulls.”
Founder Mima Yoichizaemon Kagenobu (1577–1665) was struck with a vision of white gulls floating effortlessly and without conscious thought on water, and realized he could use his sword in the same effortless manner. This embodied the ideal of the swordsman: composure and serenity outwardly, but instant decisiveness when action is needed. He named the style that arose from his revelation the “Suiō-ryū”, or Water-Gull style of swordsmanship.
