Mikko from Jyvaskyla, Finland

1) What is your name?
-"Mikko."

2) How old are you?
-"35."

3) Why did you come to Japan?
-"I came to Japan, because I wanted to broaden my understanding of Iaidô and to experience Iai in its home country. A big part of the trip was to participate in the Seto Jinja enbu."

4) When did you start iaidô and why?
-"I started Iaido in September 1998. The main reason was that I have been interested in martial arts since I was very young. I've tried different Budô while I was trying to find one that suits me best. After a long pause I moved to Jyväskylä and was introduced to Iaidô by a friend, I hadn't even heard about Iaidô before. I have been training since."

5) Have you ever participated in iai demonstration in Japan? What was it like? How about in your own country?
-"This was my first trip to Japan and luckily I had the opportunity to participate on the Seto Jinja enbu. It was more than I could have ever dreamed of. I have wanted to see different Ryûha for some time and I was pleased to hear from Sensei that there would be much to see. Being the first time I didn’t know what to expect and coming from a different culture everything was new. In the end everything went smoothly. I own a big thank you for all of the local Iaidoka who helped us during our stay. I have participated in few enbu's in my home country, but there is no comparison."

6) Is there a difference between training in Japan and in Europe?
-"Yes, there is a big difference in the atmosphere. The regular training is more or less the same compared to the camps in Scandinavia, but the special trainings were different, more intense and very demanding."

7) What do you think about Takada Gakudô Sensei's style related to iaidô and training?
-"First thing that comes to mind is that it's very easy to follow a strong example. Sensei is very strict in training and the goal he sets is very high. Sensei makes Iaidô look effortless while being dynamic and precise."

8) What kind of a teacher is Takada Gakudô Sensei?
-"Sensei is very demanding, but at the same time he encourages to learn. His profound knowledge and experience of Budô reflects in his teaching and sometimes Sensei shows a little bit extra. Those occasions really make one wonder how much there is to learn from him."

9) What would you like to say to someone who is thinking about starting iaidô?
-"I recommend trying, Iaidô can contribute to whatever one might pursue in life."