Weapons training in Iwama-ryu Aikido begins with a wooden sword (ken), staff (Jo), and knife (Tanto / Tanken).
It is essential that you practice at home and in your free time outside of class. So, you need to have your own weapons.
The best option is to go to Iwama, train at the Tanrenkan Dojo and purchase a set from Saito Sensei directly while you are there. However, that is not always convenient.
An easy solution is to pick up this set from Seido Shop, run by an Aikikai Aikido practitioner in Japan, Jordy Delage from France.
https://www.seidoshop.com/products/iwama-ryu-bokken-jo-tanto-set-classic-woods
Be sure to select an "Iwama" style bokken (sword) rather than one oriented toward any other "aikido" form.
You may need to cut down the Jo to suit your height. A properly fitted Jo should come up to the height of the practitioner's armpit and I recommend the thicker, 27mm, diameter but you should choose based on your preference.
I also recommend purchasing a weapons bag or carrying case to transport your weapons set to and from class. It is essential for moving around Japan and public transportation without raising alarm. If not one from Seido Shop, there are many others out there and I even use a soft sniper rifle case for some of my kobudo and iaijutsu weapons. Find a solution that works for you.
You can also have Seido Shop laser engrave your wooden weapons, for an additional fee at the time of ordering online.
Usually, the kanji for aiki, aikido, or takemusu aiki are used on engraving but also sometimes Iwama-ryu or Iwama Aikido. Here are those kanji, respectively.
合気
合気道
武産合気
岩間流
岩間合気道
Happy shopping and even happier training!
