Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), known as O-Sensei, or “Great Teacher.” Rooted in traditional Japanese martial arts, it combines throws, joint locks, and pins with principles of balance, timing, and coordinated whole-body movement.

Ueshiba studied several martial traditions, with Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu, which he learned under Sokaku Takeda, providing a major foundation for his techniques. His study of sword and other weapons practices also contributed to his understanding of movement, distance, and timing. Through decades of intensive training and spiritual exploration, he gradually developed his own approach to budo, connecting martial skill with discipline and personal development.

In 1931, Ueshiba established the Kobukan Dojo in Tokyo, and the name “Aikido” was adopted in 1942. After World War II, Aikido spread throughout Japan and overseas through the efforts of his son, Kisshomaru Ueshiba, and generations of dedicated instructors. Today, it is practiced worldwide as a martial discipline and a path of lifelong learning.

At our dojo, we emphasize Aikido as a martial art. Our training focuses on developing sound technique, understanding its practical application, and improving self-defense skills. Students work to recognize openings, maintain effective distance, disrupt an attacker’s balance, and apply techniques with control. We emphasize the martial purpose behind each movement so that students understand both how a technique works and why it is performed in a particular way.

Our practice encompasses taijutsu (unarmed techniques) and bukijutsu (weapons techniques), including training with the bokken (wooden sword) and jo (wooden staff). These complementary practices reinforce the principles of posture, distance, timing, and body alignment that support effective technique.

A central principle of Aikido is to work with an attack’s direction and momentum rather than meet force with force. Students learn to combine positioning, balance control, and coordinated movement to respond to grabs and strikes without relying solely on physical strength. Through consistent practice, they develop the technical skills, awareness, and composure needed to improve their ability to protect themselves.

Training takes place through partner practice, with students alternating between Tori, the person applying the technique, and Uke, the person receiving it. Both roles are essential to learning: Tori develops the ability to execute techniques effectively, while Uke practices purposeful attacks and learns to respond to the resulting movements. Ukemi—the skills of receiving techniques, falling, and rolling—is an integral part of training. Practice progresses with each student’s experience and ability, with an emphasis on control and care for training partners.

Alongside martial skill, regular practice develops balance, coordination, flexibility, and physical fitness. It also cultivates concentration, self-discipline, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. We pursue these qualities through focused training, mutual respect, and a commitment to continued improvement.

We welcome adults of all ages, including beginners with no previous martial arts experience.

Promotion system

All promotion and ranking evaluations are conducted in accordance with the standards established by our parent organizations, the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) and Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Japan.

For kyu promotions (white belt ranks), upon approval, rank certificates are issued by the USAF, which is officially affiliated with Aikikai Hombu Dojo.

For dan promotions (black belt ranks), upon approval, rank certificates are issued and formally registered with Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Japan, granting official recognition as an Aikikai black belt practitioner worldwide.