Iaido and iaijutsu are both Japanese martial arts focused on the art of drawing and using the sword. While they share similarities, there are distinct differences between the two:

Iaido:

Iaido is a modern Japanese martial art that emphasizes the way of drawing and using the sword (katana) in a specific, controlled manner. It is practiced as a form of personal development, focusing on refining technique, mental discipline, and mindfulness. The primary goal of Iaido is to achieve a state of readiness and presence of mind through the practice of solo forms (kata) that simulate combat scenarios.

Key features of Iaido include:

1. Emphasis on Solo Practice: Iaido primarily involves individual practice, where practitioners perform kata (pre-arranged forms) against imagined opponents.
2. Mindfulness and Mental Focus: Iaido emphasizes mental presence, focus, and the development of a calm and composed mind.
3. Traditional Etiquette and Rituals: Iaido places importance on traditional etiquette, rituals, and the preservation of cultural traditions associated with the samurai.
4. Emphasis on Form and Aesthetics: Iaido focuses on perfecting the form, control, and precision of drawing, cutting, and sheathing the sword.
5. Non-competitive Nature: Iaido is a non-competitive martial art and does not involve sparring or contests.

Iaijutsu:

Iaijutsu is an older martial art that originated during the feudal era of Japan and was practiced by samurai. It focused on the practical application of sword techniques in actual combat scenarios. Unlike Iaido, which is practiced as a modern martial art, iaijutsu is considered a traditional martial art or a historical discipline.

Key features of Iaijutsu include:

1. Practical Application: Iaijutsu emphasizes the effective use of sword techniques in real combat situations.
2. Training Methods: Iaijutsu historically involved training methods such as partner practice, sparring, and strategies for engaging with real opponents.
3. Historical Context: Iaijutsu is rooted in the historical traditions and strategies of samurai warfare during the feudal period in Japan.

It's worth noting that the terms "Iaido" and "iaijutsu" are sometimes used interchangeably, and the specific practices and approaches may vary among different schools and lineages. However, the general distinction lies in the modern, solo-practice-oriented nature of Iaido and the historical, practical application focus of iaijutsu.