Italian version here
Our interviews continue today we have the pleasure of interviewing Stefano Ferro Sensei
From Switzerland a pioneer of iaido, and where he carries out enormous work for the growth of the iaido movement, enjoy reading
When and where were you born?
I was born on December 21, 1967
How did you get into martial arts, and what ranks have you achieved?
I started kendo on April 24, 1987, at Shin Ho Kan in Bern. At the time, our dojo didn’t have iaido; we only practiced kendo. The kendo teacher back then, Shinji Tanaka, would practice a bit of iaido about half an hour before kendo started (he was a shodan). One day, I arrived early for training and saw this practice that fascinated me, so I started learning iaido alongside kendo. Mr. Tanaka eventually left our dojo, and I, along with some of my kendo companions, was left to continue iaido on our own.
At that time, there were still very few iaidoka in Switzerland. Eventually, I found a teacher in Basel (an hour each way, twice a week) who helped me reach the third dan. But then that teacher also took a different path, so I again found myself without support (by this time, I was already a 2nd dan in kendo and had gradually introduced iaido into our dojo).
I realized that iaido was sparking interest and had potential in Switzerland. So, I committed myself to promoting iaido in the dojo and, later on, across Switzerland. I hold a 7th Dan in iaido.
What was the Iaido scene like when you first started out?
In the late 80s, there were only a few dojos practicing iaido. The mindset at that time was very individualistic, with everyone training solely for themselves. There were no communal training sessions, no national team, and no joint exchanges.
What does Iaido mean to you?
That’s a great question. I think everyone has their own reasons for practicing iaido. Over the years, it has become an integral part of my life—not just a sport or physical exercise (though that’s certainly beneficial) but also something much deeper, with values that can be applied to everyday life. Not to mention the wonderful connections and friendships that have formed over the years.
Who’s your sensei, and how did you meet them?
My teacher is René van Armersfoort from the Netherlands. I practice Muso Shinden Ryu, which I had already started learning with my first teacher. Back then, Muso Shinden Ryu was the only style available in Bern.
How’s your relationship with your sensei evolved over the years?
In 2004, René van Armersfoort was invited to Switzerland for a seminar. My friend Beat Bähler introduced me to him, and I later asked him to help me prepare for my 4th dan.Afterward, I asked René to accept me as his student. He agreed, and that began a long-term teacher-student relationship and a friendship that continues to this day.
When was your first time in Japan, and do you still go back to train? Any memorable experiences?
I first went to Japan in December 1987, but only for kendo. I usually go to Japan once a year to train with Ishido Sensei.
Of course, I will always be a foreigner in Japan. Nevertheless, I have always felt very comfortable, and I think there is good acceptance in the dojo. Many people have known me for years, and training together fosters a connection.I remember once practicing Tozume when Ishido Sensei asked his student, Morishima Sensei (now also an 8th dan), to demonstrate how the kata would look in reality. It was impressive—realizing how far I am from that level… it can be motivating, though slightly frustrating.
How have kendo, iaido, and jodo influenced your budo journey?
I think it’s not so much about which discipline you practice but rather the attitude you bring to it. For me, they all share something in common: the spirit of budo.
How do Japanese teaching styles differ from the way you teach in the West?
First of all, the incredible knowledge and experience of Ishido Sensei make a big difference—unique!I’ve seen in Japan that people face the same difficulties we have in the West, and there are different levels of practitioners. Over the years, I have adopted the best methods from everywhere. Generally, I don’t think there’s really much difference.
When did you first start teaching, and do you enjoy working with specific groups of students, like kids, competitors or adults?
I was the first to practice iaido in our dojo and am one of the pioneers of iaido in Switzerland. I have always been learning and teaching simultaneously.I don’t make distinctions in my teaching. Each individual is a challenge for themselves. Of course, teaching and training the national team is a different challenge, but it’s always enjoyable.
Do you think Iaido has changed over the years?
I don’t think iaido has changed. It’s more about the new generation, lifestyle, and attitude toward iai and budo.
What’s a typical Iaido class like for you?
I usually start with some kihon because I find the basics to be the foundation of everything. Then, I continue with seitei or koryu, depending on the group. When exams or competitions are coming up, I focus on those aspects.
Do you think non-Japanese practitioners can truly understand the philosophy behind Iaido?
I’m not sure if we’ll ever fully understand the culture and philosophy. The problem begins with language; often, things are not translated correctly or cannot be translated well, and much is lost in the process. But we can still try to get as close as possible.
What’s your outlook on the future of Iaido in Europe?
I see positive development. The younger generation is making rapid progress, with more high-level participants. However, there’s less strong interest in budo in general than there used to be. In my opinion, the number of new participants is declining. I hope that changes.
What advice would you give to beginners?
First of all, I always say to have fun with what you’re doing—that’s the most important thing. Everything else will come with time.
Is there any particular lesson or teaching you like to pass on to your students?
The joy of iai and self-confidence.
Do you have a funny Iaido story to share?
At a seminar in Brighton, I think in 2009, I had just passed my godan, and in the evening, I sat down to dinner with my colleagues and Morita Sensei. Most of them were Jikiden students.
Suddenly, Morita Sensei asked, “Did you pass the exam today?” I said yes. After that, he said, “Good, tomorrow morning at 6:00, come to kihon practice with my students outside the campus.” So, I had to join about six other students practicing kihon outdoors under his guidance.Shortly before 7:00, the other sensei arrived, laughing as they went to have breakfast. We were allowed to stop at 7:00, with the official training starting at 9:00. The last thing Morita Sensei said before letting us go was, “Anyway, the dojo opens at 7:00.”
