Mugairyu Iaihyodo was founded in 1693 by Tsuji Gettan Sukemochi and though there are a few major branches, all trace themselves legitimately and directly back to the founder (the branches developed from the founder's initial students going to different parts of Japan.)

The largest branch is under Niina-gosoke (Meishi-ha) overseen by a Japanese Non-Profit Organization called NPO Suimo-kai, chaired by Niina-gosoke.

There are 20 basic Kata (forms):

• 10 Zagi (seated)
• 5 Tachi (standing)
• 5 Hashirigakari (running)

As well as:

• 10 kumitachi (paired forms)
• 5 Tachi (standing/running)
• 5 Zagi (seated) with wakizashi (short swords)

There are also another 8 Naiden/Okuden (advanced) kata, and above that another five hidden ("secret" or "really advanced") kata.

Mugairyu also offers training in Shindomusoryu jo (staff) and Uchidaryu/Toseiryu tanjo (short staff or cane.)

Furthermore Mugairyu is "cutting iai"; for training to have any meaning, the techniques must be effective. So we regularly practice tameshigiri (test cutting). We cut with our kata, which means we do a lot of cutting from the draw, which is the essence of iai, really. Technically, once the sword is drawn its kenjutsu.

Mugairyu differs from other styles simply because it is very fast, efficient, and straightforward. We stress speed, power, and effectiveness. Eliminating unnecessary movements is emphasized.

We practice solid basic Iai swordsmanship; no big wide circling chiburi (shaking off blood), no fancy katana twirling or spinning noto (sheathing), no crazy footwork.

There are several styles in North America and Europe that use the name Mugairyu, but the study groups, under the supervision of International Director Renfield Kuroda (pictured) and overseen by Tony Alvarez in the USA and David J. Harrell in Scotland UK, are the only ones with a direct, legitimate connection to Niina-gosoke and the Suimo-kai organization.