Yasuhisa Watanabe
Inducted into the A.M.A.H.O.F. (Inc) and W.K.U.H.O.F. for 2025
Continual Excellence and Service to the Australasian Martial Arts Community
Dr. Yasuhisa Watanabe is a highly accomplished practitioner and instructor of Muso Jikiden Eishinryu Iaido, a traditional Japanese martial art focusing on the drawing and cutting techniques of the samurai sword. In 2024, Watanabe achieved the rank of 7th Dan, marking nearly three decades of dedicated study and practice in the art of Iaido.
Watanabe moved to Australia from Japan in 1991. His journey in Iaido began in 1996, inspired by a lifelong fascination with katana and historical Japanese swordsmanship as portrayed in period dramas. His passion and skill have led to notable achievements in Iaido, including a Second-place finish in 6th Dan and third-place finish in both the 5th Dan and Renshi competitions at Dai Nihon Iaido Renmei’s Kyoto Taikai.
From 2001, Watanabe played a pivotal role in the development of Iaido in Queensland, where he was responsible for managing dojos in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. He has also led a number of competition trips to Japan and ran several Iaido demonstrations at local schools and community events, educating the public about the art of Japanese swordmanship. These experiences honed his leadership skills and deepened his commitment to preserving and promoting this traditional martial art.
Since relocating to Melbourne in 2010, Watanabe has continued his training and teaching at the Melbourne dojo, contributing to the growth of the Iaido community in Victoria. His journey from student to senior instructor exemplifies the lifelong learning and dedication inherent in the practice of traditional Japanese martial arts.