We might only be three episodes into the Ahsoka series but we're already learning a lot from the Star Wars show. For instance, Episode 3 just revealed the official name of the classic Jedi training technique we first saw in A New Hope. Interestingly, it has a cool connection to a Japanese legend.
Ahsoka Episode 3 confirmed that Sabine Wren has been busy while she, Ahsoka Tano, and Huyang are on their way to Seatos. The first scene features Sabine training with the droid who isn't impressed with her skills. Still, Ahsoka isn't giving up on her Padawan and suggests they try "Zatochi" for a change.
The Zatochi turns out to be a simple yet effective technique we've already seen several times. The trainee wears a helmet that serves as a blindfold and uses the Force (and other senses) to defend themself from incoming attacks. This was the first Jedi training technique we saw in A New Hope where Obi-Wan Kenobi let Luke Skywalker practice with the lightsaber.
It's a cool revelation considering we've seen the technique across several Star Wars projects in the past. In addition to that, the name of the technique digs deep into a Japanese legend and it absolutely makes sense.
What is the Zatochi Technique?
The Zatochi technique requires a student to wear a blindfold and use a wooden sword for their training. It is rightfully inspired by the Japanese character Zatoichi, a blind masseuse who fights using a swordstick during Japan's late Edo period. Zatoichi was created by novelist Kan Shimozawa in the 1948 essay Zatoichi Monogatari and has since appeared in numerous Japanese projects (the stage play was directed by horror legend Takashi Miike).
It certainly makes sense for the Jedi training technique to be named after a blind swordsman. In addition, the name reveal was well worth the wait considering that it was first seen six decades ago.
You can watch Sabine's training in Ahsoka Episode 3 which is now streaming on Disney+. The show's fourth episode is set to premiere on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
