Aikido

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Contents
Articles
Aikido 1
Morihei Ueshiba 13

Influences 21
Takeda Skaku 21
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 24
Onisaburo Deguchi 32
Oomoto 34

Basic principles 37
Aikido concepts 37
Tori 40
Uke 41
Aiki 43
Irimi 47
Tenkan 48
Atemi 49
Tai sabaki 50
Maai 51
Randori 53
Zanshin 55
Kuzushi 56
Qi 57
Dojo 64
Kamiza 66
Tatami 67
Seiza 69
Uchi-deshi 73
Ky 74
Dan 78
Black belt 83
Aikidogi 85
Hakama 86
Obi 89
Weapons 100
J 100
Aiki-j 101
Bokken 103
Aiki-ken 106
Tant 108

Major styles 113

Aikikai 113
Kisshomaru Ueshiba 118
Iwama ryu 120
Iwama dojo 123
Morihiro Saito 126
Ki-Aikido 130
Ki Society 132
Koichi Tohei 134
Shodokan Aikido 138
Kenji Tomiki 142
Kobayashi aikido 143
Hirokazu Kobayashi 144
Yoseikan Aikido 147
Minoru Mochizuki 155
Yoshinkan 157
Gozo Shioda 160

Other notable practitioners 163

Kenshiro Abbe 163
Seiseki Abe 169
Tadashi Abe 170
Kazuo Chiba 171
Terry Dobson 172
Toshikazu Ichimura 173
Tetsuro Nariyama 175
Hitohiro Saito 176
Steven Seagal 178
Kenji Shimizu 187
Yasuhisa Shioda 188
 Seiichi Sugano 189
Stefan Stenudd 190
Isamu Takeshita 191
Nobuyoshi Tamura 194
Christian Tissier 196
Fumio Toyoda 197
Mitsuteru Ueshiba 199
Moriteru Ueshiba 201

References
Article Sources and Contributors 203
Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors 208

Article Licenses
License 211
Aikido 1

Aikido
Aikido
( )

The version of the "four-direction throw" (shihnage) with standing attacker and seated defender (hanmi-handachi). The receiver
of the throw (uke) is taking a breakfall (ukemi) to reach the ground safely.
Focus Grappling and softness

Country of origin Japan

Creator Morihei Ueshiba

Famous practitioners Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Moriteru Ueshiba, Steven Seagal, Christian Tissier,
Morihiro Saito, Koichi Tohei, Yoshimitsu Yamada, Gozo Shioda

Parenthood Aiki-jjutsu; Jujutsu; Kenjutsu; Sjutsu, Bojutsu, Iaijutsu, Jojutsu

Ancestor arts Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu

Aikido (Japanese: Hepburn: Aikid) Japanese pronunciation:[a.i.ki.do] is a Japanese martial art developed by
Morihei Ueshiba as a synthesis of his martial studies, philosophy, and religious beliefs. Aikido is often translated as
"the Way of unifying (with) life energy"[1] or as "the Way of harmonious spirit."[2] Ueshiba's goal was to create an
art that practitioners could use to defend themselves while also protecting their attacker from injury.[3][4]
Aikido is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than
opposing it head-on. This requires very little physical strength, as the aikidka (aikido practitioner) "leads" the
attacker's momentum using entering and turning movements. The techniques are completed with various throws or
joint locks.[5]
Aikido derives mainly from the martial art of Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu, but began to diverge from it in the late 1920s,
partly due to Ueshiba's involvement with the moto-ky religion. Ueshiba's early students' documents bear the term
aiki-jjutsu.[6]
Ueshiba's senior students have different approaches to aikido, depending partly on when they studied with him.
Today aikido is found all over the world in a number of styles, with broad ranges of interpretation and emphasis.
However, they all share techniques learned from Ueshiba and most have concern for the well-being of the attacker.
Aikido 2

Etymology and basic philosophy

The word "aikido" is formed of three kanji:
ai joining, unifying, combining, fit
ki spirit, energy, mood, morale
d way, path
The term "aiki" does not readily appear in the Japanese language outside the scope of Budo.
This has led to many possible interpretations of the word. is mainly used in compounds to
mean 'combine, unite, join together, meet', examples being (combined/united),
(composition), (unite/combine/join together), (union/alliance/association),
(combine/unify), and (mutual agreement). There is an idea of reciprocity,
(to get to know one another), (talk/discussion/negotiation), and
(meet by appointment).

is often used to express a feeling, as in ('I feel', as in terms of thinking but

with less cognitive reasoning), (feeling/sensation), and (mood/morale). It
is used to mean energy or force, as in (electricity) and (magnetism).
The term d is also found in martial arts such as judo and kendo, and in the more peaceful
arts such as Japanese calligraphy (shod), flower arranging (kad) and tea ceremony (chad
or sad).
"Aikido" written with
Therefore, from a purely linguistic point of view, aikido is 'Way of combining forces'. The
"ki" in its old
term aiki refers to the martial arts principle or tactic of blending with an attacker's character form
movements for the purpose of controlling their actions with minimal effort.[7] One applies
aiki by understanding the rhythm and intent of the attacker to find the optimal position and timing to apply a
counter-technique. This then is very similar to the principles expressed by Kan Jigor, founder of judo.

History
Aikido was created by Morihei Ueshiba ( Ueshiba
Morihei, 14 December 1883 26 April 1969), referred to by some
aikido practitioners as sensei ("Great Teacher").[8] Ueshiba
envisioned aikido not only as the synthesis of his martial training, but
as an expression of his personal philosophy of universal peace and
reconciliation. During Ueshiba's lifetime and continuing today, aikido
has evolved from the Aiki that Ueshiba studied into a wide variety of
expressions by martial artists throughout the world.[5]

Morihei Ueshiba, founder of aikido.

Aikido 3

Initial development
Ueshiba developed aikido primarily during the late 1920s through the
1930s through the synthesis of the older martial arts that he had
studied.[9] The core martial art from which aikido derives is Dait-ry
aiki-jjutsu, which Ueshiba studied directly with Takeda Skaku, the
reviver of that art. Additionally, Ueshiba is known to have studied
Tenjin Shin'y-ry with Tozawa Tokusabur in Tokyo in 1901, Gotha
Yagy Shingan-ry under Nakai Masakatsu in Sakai from 1903 to
1908, and judo with Kiyoichi Takagi ( Takagi
Kiyoichi, 18941972) in Tanabe in 1911.[10]

The art of Dait-ry is the primary technical influence on aikido.

Along with empty-handed throwing and joint-locking techniques,
Ueshiba incorporated training movements with weapons, such as those
for the spear (yari), short staff (j), and perhaps the bayonet (
jken). However, aikido derives much of its technical structure from
the art of swordsmanship (kenjutsu).[2]

Ueshiba moved to Hokkaid in 1912, and began studying under

Takeda Skaku
Takeda Sokaku in 1915. His official association with Dait-ry
continued until 1937.[9] However, during the latter part of that period,
Ueshiba had already begun to distance himself from Takeda and the Dait-ry. At that time Ueshiba was referring to
his martial art as "Aiki Bud". It is unclear exactly when Ueshiba began using the name "aikido", but it became the
official name of the art in 1942 when the Greater Japan Martial Virtue Society (Dai Nippon Butoku Kai) was
engaged in a government sponsored reorganization and centralization of Japanese martial arts.[5]

Religious influences
After Ueshiba left Hokkaid in 1919, he met and was profoundly
influenced by Onisaburo Deguchi, the spiritual leader of the
moto-ky religion (a neo-Shinto movement) in Ayabe.[11] One of the
primary features of moto-ky is its emphasis on the attainment of
utopia during one's life. This was a great influence on Ueshiba's martial
arts philosophy of extending love and compassion especially to those
who seek to harm others. Aikido demonstrates this philosophy in its
emphasis on mastering martial arts so that one may receive an attack
and harmlessly redirect it. In an ideal resolution, not only is the
receiver unharmed, but so is the attacker.[12]

In addition to the effect on his spiritual growth, the connection with

Deguchi gave Ueshiba entry to elite political and military circles as a
martial artist. As a result of this exposure, he was able to attract not
only financial backing but also gifted students. Several of these
students would found their own styles of aikido.[13]

Onisaburo Deguchi

International dissemination
Aikido 4

Aikido was first brought to the rest of the world in 1951 by Minoru Mochizuki with a visit to France where he
introduced aikido techniques to judo students.[14] He was followed by Tadashi Abe in 1952 who came as the official
Aikikai Hombu representative, remaining in France for seven years. Kenji Tomiki toured with a delegation of
various martial arts through 15 continental states of the United States in 1953.[13] Later in that year, Koichi Tohei
was sent by Aikikai Hombu to Hawaii, for a full year, where he set up several dojo. This was followed up by several
further visits and is considered the formal introduction of aikido to the United States. The United Kingdom followed
in 1955; Italy in 1964; and Germany 1965. Designated "Official Delegate for Europe and Africa" by Morihei
Ueshiba, Masamichi Noro arrived in France in September 1961. Seiichi Sugano was appointed to introduce aikido to
Australia in 1965. Today there are aikido dojo available throughout the world. Aikido was exhibited in Hollywood
films by Steven Seagal in the 1990s.

Proliferation of independent organizations

The largest aikido organization is the Aikikai Foundation which remains under the control of the Ueshiba family.
However, aikido has many styles, mostly formed by Morihei Ueshiba's major students.[13]
The earliest independent styles to emerge were Yoseikan Aikido, begun by Minoru Mochizuki in 1931,[14]
Yoshinkan Aikido founded by Gozo Shioda in 1955,[15] and Shodokan Aikido, founded by Kenji Tomiki in 1967.[16]
The emergence of these styles pre-dated Ueshiba's death and did not cause any major upheavals when they were
formalized. Shodokan Aikido, however, was controversial, since it introduced a unique rule-based competition that
some felt was contrary to the spirit of aikido.[13]
After Ueshiba's death in 1969, two more major styles emerged. Significant controversy arose with the departure of
the Aikikai Hombu Dojo's chief instructor Koichi Tohei, in 1974. Tohei left as a result of a disagreement with the
son of the founder, Kisshomaru Ueshiba, who at that time headed the Aikikai Foundation. The disagreement was
over the proper role of ki development in regular aikido training. After Tohei left, he formed his own style, called
Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, and the organization which governs it, the Ki Society (Ki no Kenkykai).[17]
A final major style evolved from Ueshiba's retirement in Iwama, Ibaraki, and the teaching methodology of long term
student Morihiro Saito. It is unofficially referred to as the "Iwama style", and at one point a number of its followers
formed a loose network of schools they called Iwama Ryu. Although Iwama style practitioners remained part of the
Aikikai until Saito's death in 2002, followers of Saito subsequently split into two groups; one remaining with the
Aikikai and the other forming the independent Shinshin Aikishuren Kai in 2004 around Saito's son Hitohiro Saito.
Today, the major styles of aikido are each run by a separate governing organization, have their own headquarters
( honbu dj) in Japan, and have an international breadth.[13]

Training
In aikido, as in virtually all Japanese martial arts, there are both physical and mental aspects of training. The physical
training in aikido is diverse, covering both general physical fitness and conditioning, as well as specific
techniques.[18] Because a substantial portion of any aikido curriculum consists of throws, the first thing most
students learn is how to safely fall or roll.[18] The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the
techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned, students study freestyle
defense against multiple opponents, and techniques with weapons.
Aikido 5

Fitness
Physical training goals pursued in conjunction with aikido include
controlled relaxation, flexibility, and endurance, with less
emphasis on strength training. In aikido, pushing or extending
movements are much more common than pulling or contracting
movements. This distinction can be applied to general fitness goals
for the aikido practitioner.[2]

In aikido, specific muscles or muscle groups are not isolated and

worked to improve tone, mass, and power. Aikido-related training
emphasizes the use of coordinated whole-body movement and
balance similar to yoga or pilates. For example, many dojos begin
each class with warm-up exercises ( junbi tais),
which may include stretching and ukemi (break falls).[19]
Ukemi ( ) is very important for safe practice
Roles of uke and nage
Aikido training is based primarily on two partners practicing pre-arranged forms (kata) rather than freestyle practice.
The basic pattern is for the receiver of the technique (uke) to initiate an attack against the person who applies the
techniquethe tori, or shite (depending on aikido style), also referred to as nage (when
applying a throwing technique), who neutralises this attack with an aikido technique.[20]
Both halves of the technique, that of uke and that of nage, are considered essential to aikido training.[20] Both are
studying aikido principles of blending and adaptation. Nage learns to blend with and control attacking energy, while
uke learns to become calm and flexible in the disadvantageous, off-balance positions in which nage places them.
This "receiving" of the technique is called ukemi.[20] Uke continuously seeks to regain balance and cover
vulnerabilities (e.g., an exposed side), while nage uses position and timing to keep uke off-balance and vulnerable. In
more advanced training, uke will sometimes apply reversal techniques ( kaeshi-waza) to regain balance
and pin or throw nage.
Ukemi ( ) refers to the act of receiving a technique. Good ukemi involves attention to the technique, the partner
and the immediate environmentit is an active rather than a passive receiving of aikido. The fall itself is part of
aikido, and is a way for the practitioner to receive, safely, what would otherwise be a devastating strike or throw.

Initial attacks
Aikido techniques are usually a defense against an attack; therefore, to practice aikido with their partner, students
must learn to deliver various types of attacks. Although attacks are not studied as thoroughly as in striking-based
arts, "honest" attacks (a strong strike or an immobilizing grab) are needed to study correct and effective application
of technique.[2]
Many of the strikes ( uchi) of aikido resemble cuts from a sword or other grasped object, which indicates its
origins in techniques intended for armed combat.[2] Other techniques, which appear to explicitly be punches (tsuki),
are practiced as thrusts with a knife or sword. Kicks are generally reserved for upper-level variations; reasons cited
include that falls from kicks are especially dangerous, and that kicks (high kicks in particular) were uncommon
during the types of combat prevalent in feudal Japan. Some basic strikes include:
Front-of-the-head strike ( shmen'uchi) a vertical knifehand strike to the head. In training, this is
usually directed at the forehead or the crown for safety, but more dangerous versions of this attack target the
bridge of the nose and the maxillary sinus.
Side-of-the-head strike ( yokomen'uchi) a diagonal knifehand strike to the side of the head or
neck.
Aikido 6

Chest thrust ( mune-tsuki) a punch to the torso. Specific targets include the chest, abdomen, and solar
plexus. Same as "middle-level thrust" ( chdan-tsuki), and "direct thrust" ( choku-tsuki).
Face thrust ( ganmen-tsuki) a punch to the face. Same as "upper-level thrust" (
jdan-tsuki).
Beginners in particular often practice techniques from grabs, both because they are safer and because it is easier to
feel the energy and lines of force of a hold than a strike. Some grabs are historically derived from being held while
trying to draw a weapon; a technique could then be used to free oneself and immobilize or strike the attacker who is
grabbing the defender.[2] The following are examples of some basic grabs:
Single-hand grab ( katate-dori) one hand grabs one wrist.
Both-hands grab ( morote-dori) both hands grab one wrist. Same as "single hand double-handed
grab" ( katateryte-dori)
Both-hands grab ( ryte-dori) both hands grab both wrists. Same as "double single-handed grab"
( rykatate-dori).
Shoulder grab ( kata-dori) a shoulder grab. "Both-shoulders-grab" is rykata-dori ( ). It
is sometimes combined with an overhead strike as Shoulder grab face strike ( kata-dori
men-uchi).
Chest grab ( mune-dori or muna-dori) grabbing the (clothing of the) chest. Same as "collar grab" (
eri-dori).

Basic techniques
The following are a sample of the basic or widely practiced throws and
pins. Many of these techniques derive from Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu, but
some others were invented by Morihei Ueshiba. The precise
terminology for some may vary between organisations and styles, so
what follows are the terms used by the Aikikai Foundation. Note that
despite the names of the first five techniques listed, they are not Diagram of ikky, or "first technique". Yonky
universally taught in numeric order.[21] has a similar mechanism of action, although the
upper hand grips the forearm rather than the
First technique ( ikky) a control using one hand on the elbow.
elbow and one hand near the wrist which leverages uke to the
ground.[22] This grip applies pressure into the ulnar nerve at the wrist.
Second technique ( niky) a pronating wristlock that torques the arm and applies painful nerve pressure.
(There is an adductive wristlock or Z-lock in ura version.)
Third technique ( sanky) a rotational wristlock that directs upward-spiraling tension throughout the arm,
elbow and shoulder.
Fourth technique ( yonky) a shoulder control similar to ikky, but with both hands gripping the forearm.
The knuckles (from the palm side) are applied to the recipient's radial nerve against the periosteum of the forearm
bone.[23]
Fifth technique ( goky) visually similar to ikky, but with an inverted grip of the wrist, medial rotation of
the arm and shoulder, and downward pressure on the elbow. Common in knife and other weapon take-aways.
Four-direction throw ( shihnage) The hand is folded back past the shoulder, locking the shoulder
joint.
Forearm return ( kotegaeshi) a supinating wristlock-throw that stretches the extensor digitorum.
Breath throw ( kokynage) a loosely used term for various types of mechanically unrelated
techniques, although they generally do not use joint locks like other techniques.[24]
Entering throw ( iriminage) throws in which nage moves through the space occupied by uke. The
classic form superficially resembles a "clothesline" technique.
Aikido 7

Heaven-and-earth throw ( tenchinage) beginning with ryte-dori; moving forward, nage sweeps
one hand low ("earth") and the other high ("heaven"), which unbalances uke so that he or she easily topples over.
Hip throw ( koshinage) aikido's version of the hip throw. Nage drops his or her hips lower than those
of uke, then flips uke over the resultant fulcrum.
Figure-ten throw ( jjinage) or figure-ten entanglement ( jjigarami) a throw that
locks the arms against each other (The kanji for "10" is a cross-shape: ).[25]
Rotary throw ( kaitennage) nage sweeps the arm back until it locks the shoulder joint, then uses
forward pressure to throw.[26]

Implementations
Aikido makes use of body movement (tai sabaki) to blend with uke.
For example, an "entering" (irimi) technique consists of movements
inward towards uke, while a "turning" ( tenkan) technique uses a
pivoting motion.[27] Additionally, an "inside" ( uchi) technique
takes place in front of uke, whereas an "outside" ( soto) technique
takes place to his side; a "front" ( omote) technique is applied with
Diagram showing two versions of the ikky
motion to the front of uke, and a "rear" ( ura) version is applied with
technique: one moving forward (the omote
version) and one moving backward (the ura motion towards the rear of uke, usually by incorporating a turning or
version). See text for more details. pivoting motion. Finally, most techniques can be performed while in a
seated posture (seiza). Techniques where both uke and nage are
standing are called tachi-waza, techniques where both start off in seiza are called suwari-waza, and techniques
performed with uke standing and nage sitting are called hanmi handachi.[28]

Thus, from fewer than twenty basic techniques, there are thousands of possible implementations. For instance, ikky
can be applied to an opponent moving forward with a strike (perhaps with an ura type of movement to redirect the
incoming force), or to an opponent who has already struck and is now moving back to reestablish distance (perhaps
an omote-waza version). Specific aikido kata are typically referred to with the formula
"attack-technique(-modifier)".[29] For instance, katate-dori ikky refers to any ikky technique executed when uke is
holding one wrist. This could be further specified as katate-dori ikky omote, referring to any forward-moving ikky
technique from that grab.
Atemi ( ) are strikes (or feints) employed during an aikido technique. Some view atemi as attacks against
"vital points" meant to cause damage in and of themselves. For instance, Gz Shioda described using atemi in a
brawl to quickly down a gang's leader.[30] Others consider atemi, especially to the face, to be methods of distraction
meant to enable other techniques. A strike, whether or not it is blocked, can startle the target and break his or her
concentration. The target may become unbalanced in attempting to avoid the blow, for example by jerking the head
back, which may allow for an easier throw.[28] Many sayings about atemi are attributed to Morihei Ueshiba, who
considered them an essential element of technique.[31]
Aikido 8

Weapons
Weapons training in aikido traditionally includes the short staff (j),
wooden sword (bokken), and knife (tant).[32] Today, some schools
incorporate firearm-disarming techniques. Both weapon-taking and
weapon-retention are sometimes taught, to integrate armed and
unarmed aspects. Others, such as the Iwama style of Morihiro Saito,
usually spend substantial time with bokken and j, practised under the
names aiki-ken, and aiki-j, respectively. The founder developed much
of empty handed aikido from traditional sword and spear movements,
but the practice of these movements is not just for the purpose of
giving insight into the origin of techniques and movements, but
primarily serves to reinforce the concepts of distance, foot movement,
[33] Disarming an attacker using a "sword taking" (
presence and connectedness with one's training partner(s).
tachi-dori) technique.

Multiple attackers and randori

One feature of aikido is training to defend against multiple attackers,
often called taninzudori, or taninzugake. Freestyle (randori, or
jiywaza) practice with multiple attackers is a key part of most
curricula and is required for the higher level ranks.[34] "Randori",
literally "chaos", exercises a person's ability to intuitively perform
techniques in an unstructured environment.[34] Strategic choice of
techniques, based on how they reposition the student relative to other
attackers, is important in randori training. For instance, an ura
technique might be used to neutralise the current attacker while turning
Technique performed against two attackers.
to face attackers approaching from behind.[2]

In Shodokan Aikido, randori differs in that it is not performed with multiple persons with defined roles of defender
and attacker, but between two people, where both participants attack, defend, and counter at will. In this respect it
resembles judo randori.[16]

Injuries
In applying a technique during training, it is the responsibility of nage to prevent injury to uke by employing a speed
and force of application that is commensurate with their partner's proficiency in ukemi.[20] Injuries (especially those
to the joints), when they do occur in aikido, are often the result of nage misjudging the ability of uke to receive the
throw or pin.[35][36]
A study of injuries in the martial arts showed that while the type of injuries varied considerably from one art to the
other, the differences in overall rates of injury were much less pronounced. Soft tissue injuries are one of the most
common types of injuries found within aikido, and a few deaths from repetitive "shihnage" in a Japanese-style
hazing context have been reported.[35][36][37]
Aikido 9

Mental training
Aikido training is mental as well as physical, emphasizing the ability to relax the mind and body even under the
stress of dangerous situations.[38] This is necessary to enable the practitioner to perform the bold enter-and-blend
movements that underlie aikido techniques, wherein an attack is met with confidence and directness.[39] Morihei
Ueshiba once remarked that one "must be willing to receive 99% of an opponent's attack and stare death in the face"
in order to execute techniques without hesitation.[40] As a martial art concerned not only with fighting proficiency
but with the betterment of daily life, this mental aspect is of key importance to aikido practitioners.[41]

Criticisms
The most common criticism of aikido is that it suffers from a lack of realism in training. The attacks initiated by uke
(and which nage must defend against) have been criticized as being "weak," "sloppy," and "little more than
caricatures of an attack."[42][43] Weak attacks from uke cause a conditioned response from nage, and result in
underdevelopment of the strength and conditioning needed for the safe and effective practice of both partners.[42] To
counteract this, some styles allow students to become less compliant over time but, in keeping with the core
philosophies, this is after having demonstrated proficiency in being able to protect themselves and their training
partners. Shodokan Aikido addresses the issue by practising in a competitive format.[16] Such adaptations are
debated between styles, with some maintaining that there is no need to adjust their methods because either the
criticisms are unjustified, or that they are not training for self-defence or combat effectiveness, but spiritual, fitness
or other reasons.[44]
Another criticism is that after the end of Ueshiba's seclusion in Iwama from 1942 to the mid-1950s, he increasingly
emphasized the spiritual and philosophical aspects of aikido. As a result, strikes to vital points by nage, entering
(irimi) and initiation of techniques by nage, the distinction between omote (front side) and ura (back side)
techniques, and the use of weapons, were all de-emphasized or eliminated from practice. Lack of training in these
areas is thought to lead to an overall loss of effectiveness by some aikido practitioners.[45]
Conversely, there are some who criticize aikido practitioners for not placing enough importance on the spiritual
practices emphasized by Ueshiba. The premise of this criticism is that "O-Senseis aikido was not a continuation and
extension of the old and has a distinct discontinuity with past martial and philosophical concepts."[46] That is, that
aikido practitioners who focus on aikido's roots in traditional jujutsu or kenjutsu are diverging from what Ueshiba
taught. Such critics urge practitioners to embrace the assertion that "[Ueshiba's] transcendence to the spiritual and
universal reality was the fundamentals [sic] of the paradigm that he demonstrated."[46]

Ki
The study of ki is a critical component of aikido, and its study defies categorization as
either "physical" or "mental" training, as it encompasses both. The original kanji for ki
was , and is a symbolic representation of a lid covering a pot full of rice; the
"nourishing vapors" contained within are ki.[47]

The character for ki is used in everyday Japanese terms, such as "health" ( genki),
or "shyness" ( uchiki). Ki is most often understood as unified physical and mental
intention, however in traditional martial arts it is often discussed as "life energy". Gz This was the kanji for ki
Shioda's Yoshinkan Aikido, considered one of the "hard styles," largely follows until 1946, when it was
Ueshiba's teachings from before World War II, and surmises that the secret to ki lies in changed to .
[30]
timing and the application of the whole body's strength to a single point. In later
years, Ueshiba's application of ki in aikido took on a softer, more gentle feel. This was his Takemusu Aiki and many
of his later students teach about ki from this perspective. Koichi Tohei's Ki Society centers almost exclusively
around the study of the empirical (albeit subjective) experience of ki with students ranked separately in aikido
Aikido 10

techniques and ki development.[48]

Uniforms and ranking

Aikido practitioners (commonly called aikidka outside of
Japan) generally progress by promotion through a series of
"grades" (ky), followed by a series of "degrees" (dan),
pursuant to formal testing procedures. Some aikido
organizations use belts to distinguish practitioners' grades,
often simply white and black belts to distinguish lower and
higher grades, though some use various belt colors. Testing
requirements vary, so a particular rank in one organization
is not comparable or interchangeable with the rank of
another.[2] Some dojos do not allow students to take the test
Hakama are folded after practice to preserve the pleats.
to obtain a dan rank unless they are 16 or older.

rank belt color type

ky white mudansha / ykysha

dan black ydansha

The uniform worn for practicing aikido (aikidgi) is similar to the training uniform (keikogi) used in most other
modern martial arts; simple trousers and a wraparound jacket, usually white. Both thick ("judo-style"), and thin
("karate-style") cotton tops are used.[2] Aikido-specific tops are available with shorter sleeves which reach to just
below the elbow.
Most aikido systems add a pair of wide pleated black or indigo trousers called a hakama. In many styles, its use is
reserved for practitioners with (dan) ranks or for instructors, while others allow all practitioners or female
practitioners to wear a hakama regardless of rank.[2]

References
[1] Saotome, Mitsugi (1989). The Principles of Aikido. Boston, Massachusetts: Shambhala. p.222. ISBN978-0-87773-409-3.
[2] Westbrook, Adele; Ratti, Oscar (1970). Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere. Tokyo, Japan: Charles E. Tuttle Company. pp.1696.
ISBN978-0-8048-0004-4.
[3] Sharif, Suliaman (2009). 50 Martial Arts Myths. New Media Entertainment. p.135. ISBN978-0-9677546-2-8.
[4] Ueshiba, Kisshmaru (2004). The Art of Aikido: Principles and Essential Techniques. Kodansha International. p.70. ISBN4-7700-2945-4.
[5] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=18). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[6] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Aikijujutsu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=31). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[7] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Aiki" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=10). Encyclopedia of Aikido. Archived (http:/ / web.
archive. org/ web/ 20070926225755/ http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=10) from the original on 26 September 2007. .
Retrieved 2007-08-21.
[8] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "O-Sensei" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=533). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[9] Stevens, John; Rinjiro, Shirata (1984). Aikido: The Way of Harmony. Boston, Massachusetts: Shambhala. pp.317.
ISBN978-0-394-71426-4.
[10] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Ueshiba, Morihei" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=723). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[11] Pranin, Stanley. "Morihei Ueshiba and Onisaburo Deguchi" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=73). Encyclopedia of
Aikido. .
[12] Oomoto Foundation (2007). "The Teachings" (http:/ / www. oomoto. or. jp/ English/ enDokt/ dokt-en. html). Teachings and Scriptures.
Netinformational Commission. Archived (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070813025607/ http:/ / www. oomoto. or. jp/ English/ enDokt/
dokt-en. html) from the original on 13 August 2007. . Retrieved 2007-08-14.
[13] Shishida, Fumiaki. "Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=626). Aikido Journal (Berkeley, CA: Shodokan Pub.,
USA). ISBN0-9647083-2-9. .
Aikido 11

[14] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Mochizuki, Minoru" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=474). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[15] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Yoshinkan Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=785). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[16] Shishido, Fumiaki; Nariyama, Tetsuro (2002). Aikido: Tradition and the Competitive Edge. Shodokan Publishing USA.
ISBN978-0-9647083-2-7.
[17] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Tohei, Koichi" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=701). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[18] Homma, Gaku (1990). Aikido for Life. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books. p.20. ISBN978-1-55643-078-7.
[19] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Jumbi Taiso" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=340). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[20] Homma, Gaku (1990). Aikido for Life. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books. pp.2030. ISBN978-1-55643-078-7.
[21] Shifflett, C.M. (1999). Aikido Exercises for Teaching and Training. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books. ISBN978-1-55643-314-6.
[22] Pranin, Stanley (2008). "Ikkyo" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=289). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[23] Pranin, Stanley (2008). "Yonkyo" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=780). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[24] Pranin, Stanley (2008). "Kokyunage" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=419). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[25] Pranin, Stanley (2008). "Juji Garami" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=337). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[26] Pranin, Stanley (2008). "Kaitennage" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=342). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[27] Amdur, Ellis. "Irimi" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=686). Aikido Journal. .
[28] Shioda, Gz (1968). Dynamic Aikido. Kodansha International. pp.5255. ISBN978-0-87011-301-7.
[29] Taylor, Michael (2004). Aikido Terminology An Essential Reference Tool In Both English and Japanese. Lulu Press.
ISBN978-1-4116-1846-6.
[30] Shioda, Gz; trans. by Payet, Jacques, and Johnston, Christopher (2000). Aikido Shugyo: Harmony in Confrontation. Shindokan Books.
ISBN978-0-9687791-2-5.
[31] Scott, Nathan (2000). "Teachings of Ueshiba Morihei Sensei" (http:/ / www. tsuki-kage. com/ ueshiba. html). Archived (http:/ / web.
archive. org/ web/ 20061231203238/ http:/ / www. tsuki-kage. com/ ueshiba. html) from the original on 31 December 2006. . Retrieved
2007-02-01.
[32] Dang, Phong (2006). Aikido Weapons Techniques: The Wooden Sword, Stick, and Knife of Aikido. Charles E Tuttle Company.
ISBN978-0-8048-3641-8.
[33] Ratti, Oscar; Westbrook, Adele (1973). Secrets of the Samurai: The Martial Arts of Feudal Japan. Edison, New Jersey: Castle Books.
pp.23, 356359. ISBN978-0-7858-1073-5.
[34] Ueshiba, Kisshomaru; Moriteru Ueshiba (2002). Best Aikido: The Fundamentals (Illustrated Japanese Classics). Kodansha International.
ISBN978-4-7700-2762-7.
[35] Aikido and injuries: special report by Fumiaki Shishida Aiki News 1989;80 (April); partial English translation of article re-printed in Aikido
Journal (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=8)
[36] Pranin, Stanley (1983). "Aikido and Injuries" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=7& highlight=injuries). Encyclopedia of
Aikido. .
[37] Zetaruk, M; Violn, MA; Zurakowski, D; Micheli, LJ (2005). "Injuries in martial arts: a comparison of five styles" (http:/ / bjsm. bmj. com/
cgi/ content/ abstract/ 39/ 1/ 29). British journal of sports medicine (BMJ Publishing Group) 39 (1): 2933. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2003.010322.
PMC1725005. PMID15618336. 15618336. . Retrieved 2008-08-15.
[38] Hyams, Joe (1979). Zen in the Martial Arts. New York: Bantam Books. pp.5357. ISBN0-553-27559-3.
[39] Homma, Gaku (1990). Aikido for Life. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books. pp.19. ISBN978-1-55643-078-7.
[40] Ueshiba, Morihei; trans. by Stevens, John (1992). The Art of Peace. Boston, Massachusetts: Shambhala Publications, Inc..
ISBN978-0-87773-851-0.
[41] Heckler, Richard (1985). Aikido and the New Warrior. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books. pp.5157. ISBN978-0-938190-51-6.
[42] Pranin, Stanley (Fall 1990). "Aikido Practice Today" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=123). Aiki News (Aiki News) 86.
Archived (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20071121231252/ http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=123) from the original on 21
November 2007. . Retrieved 2007-11-02.
[43] Ledyard, George S. (June 2002). "Non-Traditional Attacks" (http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ training/ ledyard3. html). www.aikiweb.com.
Archived (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20080725060329/ http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ training/ ledyard3. html) from the original on 25 July
2008. . Retrieved 2008-07-29.
[44] Wagstaffe, Tony (30 March 2007). "In response to the articles by Stanley Pranin Martial arts in a state of decline? An end to the
collusion?" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ ?id=3104). Aikido Journal. www.aikidojournal.com. . Retrieved 2008-07-29.
[45] Pranin, Stanley (1994). "Challenging the Status Quo" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=12). Aiki News (Aiki News) 98.
Archived (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20071121231241/ http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=12) from the original on 21
November 2007. . Retrieved 2007-11-02.
[46] Shibata, Minoru J. (2007). "A Dilemma Deferred: An Identity Denied and Dismissed" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/
article?articleID=263). Aikido Journal (www.aikidojournal.com). Archived (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20071121231751/ http:/ / www.
aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=263) from the original on 21 November 2007. . Retrieved 2007-12-09.
[47] YeYoung, Bing F.. "The Conceptual Scheme of Chinese Philosophical Thinking Qi" (http:/ / www. literati-tradition. com/ qi_breath.
html). Literati Tradition. . Retrieved 2007-02-12.
[48] Reed, William (1997). "A Test Worth More than a Thousand Words" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070619083726/ http:/ / www.
b-smart. net/ archive/ test_article_0497. html). Archived from the original (http:/ / www. b-smart. net/ archive/ test_article_0497. html) on
Aikido 12

2007-06-19. . Retrieved 2007-08-11.

External links
Encyclopedia of Aikido (http://www.aikidojournal.com/encyclopedia)
AikiWeb Aikido Information (http://www.aikiweb.com)a site on aikido, with essays, forums, gallery,
reviews, columns, wiki and other information.
AikidoFAQ (http://www.aikidofaq.com)an informational aikido website, including articles, tips, and
multimedia.
Aikido Journal (http://www.aikidojournal.com)Online magazine. Provides articles, interviews, and
discussion of techniques.
Morihei Ueshiba 13

Morihei Ueshiba
Morihei Ueshiba
Ueshiba Morihei

Morihei Ueshiba

Born December 14, 1883

Tanabe, Wakayama, Japan

Died April 26, 1969 (aged85)

Iwama, Ibaraki, Japan

Nationality Japanese

Style Founder of Aikido

Teacher(s) Takeda Skaku

Morihei Ueshiba ( Ueshiba Morihei, December 14, 1883 April 26, 1969) was a famous martial
artist and founder of the Japanese martial art of aikido. He is often referred to as "the founder" Kaiso ( ) or
sensei ( / ), "Great Teacher".

Early years
Morihei Ueshiba was born in Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan on December 14, 1883.[1] [2]
The yongest son of Yoroku and Yuki Ueshiba's five children, Morihei was raised in a somewhat privileged setting.
His father was a rich landowner who also traded in lumber and fishing and was politically active. Ueshiba was a
rather weak, sickly child and bookish in his inclinations. At a young age his father encouraged him to take up sumo
wrestling and swimming and entertained him with stories of his great-grandfather Kichiemon who was considered a
very strong samurai in his era. The need for such strength was further emphasized when the young Ueshiba
witnessed his father being attacked by followers of a competing politician.[3]
Ueshiba is known to have studied several martial arts in his life but he did not train extensively in most and even his
training in Yagy Shingan-ry was sporadic due to his military service in those years. Records show that he trained
in Tenjin Shin'y-ry jujutsu under Tozawa Tokusabur for a short period in 1901 in Tokyo; Got-ha Yagy
Shingan-ry under Nakai Masakatsu from 1903 to 1908 in Sakai, and judo under Kiyoichi Takagi 1911 in Tanabe.[1]
However, it was only after moving to the northern island of Hokkaid in 1912 with his wife, as part of a settlement
effort, that his martial art training took on real depth. For it was here that he began his study of Dait-ry aiki-jjutsu
Morihei Ueshiba 14

under its reviver Takeda Sokaku.[1] He characterized his early training thus:
At about the age of 14 or 15. First I learned Tenjin Shin'y-ry Jujutsu from Tokusaburo Tozawa Sensei,
then Kito-ryu, Yagyu-ryu, Aioi-ryu, Shinkage-ryu, all of those jujutsu forms. However, I thought there
might be a true form of budo elsewhere. I tried Hozoin-ryu sojitsu and kendo. But all of these arts are
concerned with one-to-one combat forms and they could not satisfy me. So I visited many parts of the
country seeking the Way and training, but all in vain. ... I went to many places seeking the true budo.
Then, when I was about 30 years old, I settled in Hokkaido. On one occasion, while staying at Hisada
Inn in Engaru, Kitami Province, I met a certain Sokaku Takeda Sensei of the Aizu clan. He taught
Daito-ryu jujutsu. During the 30 days in which I learned from him I felt something like an inspiration.
Later, I invited this teacher to my home and together with 15 or 16 of my employees became a student
seeking the essence of budo.
Did you discover aikido while you were learning Daito-ryu under Sokaku Takeda?
No. It would be more accurate to say that Takeda Sensei opened my eyes to budo.[4]

Takeda Sokaku and Dait-ry

The technical curriculum of aikido was undoubtedly most greatly influenced
by the teachings of Takeda Sokaku and his system of aiki-jjutsu called
Dait-ry.[1] Although disputed by some, the ledger books of Takeda clearly
show that Ueshiba spent a great deal of time training in Dait-ry between
1915 and 1937. He received the majority of the important scrolls awarded by
Takeda at this time including the Hiden Mokuroko, the Hiden Ogi and the
Goshin'yo te. Ueshiba received his kyoju dairi certificate, or teaching license,
for the system from Takeda in 1922. Takeda had not yet implemented a
menkyo license, or highest level of achievement license, into his system at this
time. He also received a Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ry sword
transmission scroll from Takeda in 1922 in Ayabe. Ueshiba then became a
representative of Dait-ry, toured with Takeda as a teaching assistant and
taught the system to others under the Dait-ry name.[1]

The basic techniques of aikido seem to have their basis in teachings from Retouched photograph of Takeda Sokaku
various points in the Dait-ry curriculum. A source of confusion is the c.1888
different names used for these techniques in aikido and in the Dait-ry
system. In part this is because Takeda Tokimune added much of the nomenclature after the period in which Ueshiba
studied. In addition the names ikkajo, nikkajo, sankajo used in both Dait-ry and the early years of aikido, latter
supplanted by terms such as ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, were really generic names translating to "first teaching", "second
teaching", and so on.[5] In Dait-ry these usually refer to groupings of techniques while in aikido they usually refer
to specific techniques and joint manipulations.
Morihei Ueshiba 15

From aiki-jjutsu to aikido

In the earlier years of his teaching, from the 1920s to the mid 1930s, Ueshiba taught the aiki-jjutsu system he had
earned a license in from Takeda Sokaku. His early students' documents bear the term aiki-jjutsu.[6] Indeed, Ueshiba
trained one of the future highest grade earners in Dait-ry, Takuma Hisa, in the art before Takeda took charge of
Hisa's training.[7]
The early form of training under Ueshiba was characterized by the ample use of strikes to vital points (atemi), a
larger total curriculum, a greater use of weapons, and a more linear approach to technique than would be found in
later forms of aikido. These methods are preserved in the teachings of his early students Kenji Tomiki (who founded
the Shodokan Aikido sometimes called Tomiki-ry), Noriaki Inoue (who founded Shin'ei Taid), Minoru Mochizuki
(who founded Yoseikan Budo), Gozo Shioda (who founded Yoshinkan Aikido) and Morihiro Saito (who preserved
his early form of aikido under the Aikikai umbrella sometimes referred to as Iwama-ry). Many of these styles are
considered "pre-war styles", although some of the teachers continued to have contact and influence from Ueshiba in
the years after the Second World War.
Later, as Ueshiba seemed to slowly grow away from Takeda, he began to implement more changes into the art.
These changes are reflected in the differing names with which he referred to his art, first as aiki-jjutsu,[6] then
Ueshiba-ry,[8] Asahi-ry,[9] aiki bud,[10] and finally aikido.[11]
As Ueshiba grew older, more skilled, and more spiritual in his outlook, his art also changed and became softer and
more circular. Striking techniques became less important and the formal curriculum became simpler. In his own
expression of the art there was a greater emphasis on what is referred to as koky-nage, or "breath throws" which are
soft and blending, utilizing the opponent's movement in order to throw them. Many of these techniques are rooted in
the aiki-no-jutsu portions of the Dait-ry curriculum rather than the more direct jujutsu style joint-locking
techniques.

Onisaburo Deguchi's spiritual influence

After Ueshiba left Hokkaid he came under the influence of Onisaburo Deguchi, the spiritual leader of the
moto-ky religion in Ayabe. In addition to the effect on his spiritual growth, this connection was to have a major
effect in introducing Ueshiba to various elite political circles as a martial artist. The Ueshiba Dojo in Ayabe was
used to train members of the moto-ky sect. He was involved in the first moto-ky Incident, an ill-fated attempt
to found a utopian colony in Mongolia.[1] Although Ueshiba eventually distanced himself from both these teachers,
their effect on him and his art cannot be overstated.
The real birth of Aikido came as the result of three instances of spiritual awakening that Ueshiba experienced. The
first happened in 1925, after Ueshiba had defeated a naval officer's bokken (wooden katana) attacks unarmed and
without hurting the officer. Ueshiba then walked to his garden and had a spiritual awakening.
Morihei Ueshiba 16

... I felt the universe suddenly quake, and that a golden

spirit sprang up from the ground, veiled my body, and
changed my body into a golden one. At the same time my
body became light. I was able to understand the whispering
of the birds, and was clearly aware of the mind of God, the
creator of the universe.
At that moment I was enlightened: the source of budo is
God's love the spirit of loving protection for all beings...
Budo is not the felling of an opponent by force; nor is it a
tool to lead the world to destruction with arms. True Budo
is to accept the spirit of the universe, keep the peace of the
world, correctly produce, protect and cultivate all beings in
nature.[12]
Onisaburo Deguchi
His second experience occurred in 1940 when,
"Around 2am as I was performing misogi, I suddenly forgot all the martial techniques I had ever
learned. The techniques of my teachers appeared completely new. Now they were vehicles for the
cultivation of life, knowledge, and virtue, not devices to throw people with."
His third experience was in 1942 during the worst fighting of WWII, Ueshiba had a vision of the "Great Spirit of
Peace".[2]
"The Way of the Warrior has been misunderstood. It is not a means to kill and destroy others. Those
who seek to compete and better one another are making a terrible mistake. To smash, injure, or destroy
is the worst thing a human being can do. The real Way of a Warrior is to prevent such slaughter it is
the Art of Peace, the power of love."
In 1927, Ueshiba moved to Tokyo where he founded his first dojo, which still exists today under the name Aikikai
Hombu Dojo. Between 1940 and 1942 he made several visits to Manchukuo (Japanese occupied Manchuria) to
instruct his martial art. In 1942 he left Tokyo and moved to Iwama in the Ibaraki Prefecture where the term "aikido"
was first used as a name for his art. Here he founded the Aiki Shuren Dojo, also known as the Iwama dojo. During
all this time he traveled extensively in Japan, particularly in the Kansai region teaching his aikido.
In 1969, Morihei Ueshiba became ill. He died suddenly on April 26, 1969 of cancer.[13] Two months later, his wife
Hatsu ( ; Ueshiba Hatsu, ne Itokawa Hatsu; 18811969)[14] died in turn. His son Kisshomaru Ueshiba
carried forward.

Legacy
In an interview Shoji Nishio reported : "At that time, a former Karate sensei of the Butokukai named Toyosaku
Sodeyama who was running Konishi Senseis dojo and also teaching there came up to me and said: I met someone
who is like a phantom. I couldnt strike him even once. I was amazed that there was someone that even Sodeyama
Sensei couldnt strike. It was O-Sensei."[15]
To this day, moto-ky priests oversee a ceremony in Ueshiba's honor every April 29 at the Aiki Shrine in Iwama.
Over the years, Ueshiba trained a large number of students, many of whom have grown into great teachers in their
own right. Some of them were uchideshi, or live-in students. There are roughly four generations of students. A
partial list follows:[16][17][18]
Morihei Ueshiba
First (pre-war) generation
(c.1921c.1935)
Zenzaburo Akazawa (born
1920) since 1933
Masahiro Hashimoto (born
1910) since 1931
Takuma Hisa (18951980)
since 1934
Yasuhiro Konishi
(18931983)
Noriaki Inoue (19021994)
since c.1921, nephew of
Morihei Ueshiba
Ikkusai Iwata (born 1909)
since 1930, 9th dan Aikikai
Hisao Kamada (19111986)
since 1929
Minoru Mochizuki
(19072003) since 1930, 10th
dan (received from the
International Martial Arts
Federation)
Aritoshi Murashige
(18951964) since 1931
Gozo Shioda (19151994)
since 1932, founder of the
Yoshinkan Aikido
Rinjiro Shirata (19121993)
since 1933, 9th dan
Yoshio Sugino (19041998)
since 1934, 10th dan IMAF,
10th dan Katori Shinto-ryu
Isamu Takeshita (18691949)
since c.1925
Kenji Tomiki (19001979)
since 1926, was the first 8th
dan awarded in aikido in
1942.
Second (war) generation Third (post-war)
(c.1936c.1945) generation
(c.1946c.1955)
Tadashi Abe (19261984) since 1942, Seiseki Abe
6th dan (19152011) since
1952, 10th dan
Minoru Hirai (19031998) since 1939, Sadateru Arikawa
founder of the Korindo style. (19302003) since
1947, 9th dan
Kisaburo Osawa (19111991) since Katsuaki Asai (born
1941, 9th dan 1942) since 1955, 8th
dan
Kansh Sunadomari (19232010) since Hiroshi Kato (born Terry Dobson (19381992)
1942, 9th dan 1935) since 1954, 8th
dan
Bansen Tanaka (19121988) since 1936, Yasuo Kobayashi (born Seishiro Endo (born 1942)
9th dan 1936) since 1954, 8th
dan
Saburo Tenry (19031989) since 1939, Reishin Kawai Robert Frager (born 1940)
he was a famous sumo wrestler (19312010) since
1952, 8th dan
Koichi Tohei (19202011) since 1939, Yoshio Kuroiwa Gaku Homma (born 1950) was
only 10th dan awarded by Ueshiba and (19322010) since
approved by Aikikai 1954, 6th dan
Michio Hikitsuchi (19232004) since Mutsuro Nakazono
1937, 10th dan (verbally awarded by (19181994) 7th dan
Ueshiba), opened Shingu's Kumano
Juku in 1951 (when he was 7th dan)
Yamada Senta (19242010) live-in Shoji Nishio
student in Wakayama & toured Japan (19272005) since
with Ueshiba. Student of Jigoro Kano, 1951, 8th dan
6th dan Aiki & Judo, later trained with
Kenji Tomiki
Andr Nocquet
(19141999) since
1955, 8th dan, the first
European uchideshi
Masamichi Noro (born
1935) since 1955, 6th
dan, founder of
Kinomichi
Morihiro Saito
(19282002) since
1946, 9th dan
Hiroshi Isoyama (born
1937) since 1949, 8th
dan
Mitsugi Saotome (born
1937) since 1955
17
Fourth (and last) generation
(c.1956c.1969)
Nobuyuki Watanabe (born
1930) since 1958, 8th dan
Kazuo Chiba (born 1940) since
1958, 8th dan
[19]
Yasunari Kitaura (born
1937) since 1959, 8th dan,
founder of Asociacin Cultural
de Aikido en Espaa (ACAE)
since 1960, 5th dan
since 1964, 8th dan
since 1964, 7th dan
the last uchideshi Ueshiba
trained before he died.
Norihiko Ichihashi
(19402001) since 1960, 8th
dan
Shizuo Imaizumi (born 1938)
since 1959, 7th dan
Mitsunari Kanai (19392004)
since 1959, 8th dan
Yutaka Kurita (born 1940)
since 1959, 7th dan founder
[(Kurita Yuku Aiki)]
Koretoshi Maruyama (born
1936) since 1954, founder
Aikido Yuishinkai
International
Shuji Maruyama (born 1940)
since 1959, 6th dan, founder of
Kokikai
Seijuro Masuda (born 1936)
since 1962, 8th dan
Morihei Ueshiba 18

Shigemi Yonekawa Hiroshi Tada (born Robert Nadeau (born 1937)

(19102005) since 1933 1929) since 1950, 9th since 1962, 7th dan
dan
Tsutomu Yukawa Nobuyoshi Tamura Kenji Shimizu (born 1940)
(19111942) since 1931 (19332010) since since 1963, 8th dan
1953, 8th dan
Seigo Yamaguchi Roy Suenaka (born 1940) since
(19241996) since 1961, 8th dan, founder
1951, 9th dan [20]
Wadokai Aikido.
Seiichi Sugano (19392010)
since 1959, 8th dan
Morito Suganuma (born 1942)
since 1964, 8th dan
Akira Tohei (19291999) since
1956, 8th dan
Takeji Tomita (born 1942)
since 1961, 7th dan
Yoshimitsu Yamada (born
1938) since 1956, 8th dan
Hirokazu Kobayashi
(19291998) Kobayashi aikido
Motohiro Fukakusa since 1960,
8th dan
Alan Ruddock (19442012)
since 1966
[21]
Henry Kono since 1964

Personal traits
Morihei Ueshiba regularly practiced cold water misogi, as well as other spiritual and religious rites. He viewed his
studies of aikido in this light.[22]
As a young man, Ueshiba was renowned for his incredible physical strength. He would later lose much of this
muscle, which some believe changed the way he performed aikido technique[23]
Ueshiba was said to be a simple but wise man, and a gifted farmer. In his later years, he was regarded as very kind
and gentle as a rule, but there are also stories of terrifying scoldings delivered to his students. For instance, he once
thoroughly chastised students for practicing j (staff) strikes on trees without first covering them in protective
padding. Another time, as students sneaked back into the dojo after a night of drinking and brawling, he smashed the
first one through the door over the head with a bokken (wooden practice sword), and proceeded to scold them.
Morihei Ueshiba played the game of Go often. During one game with Sokaku Takeda, Takeda utilized the Goban as
a weapon against a man he mistook for an assassin. The "assassin" was actually a friend of Ueshiba, and had arrived
in a scarf due to bad weather. The scarf hid the man's identity, triggering Takeda's paranoia as, at the time, many
people actually were trying to kill him.[24]
Morihei Ueshiba 19

Honors
Medal of Honor (Japan), 1960.[25]
Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, 1964.[25]
Order of the Sacred Treasure (Japan), 1968.[26]

Works
Morihei Ueshiba, The Secret Teachings of Aikido (2008), Kodansha International, ISBN 978-4-7700-3030-6 [27]
Morihei Ueshiba, Budo: Teachings of the Founder of Aikido (1996), Kodansha International, ISBN
978-4-7700-2070-3 [28]
Morihei Ueshiba, The Essence of Aikido: Spiritual Teachings of Morihei Ueshiba (1998), Kodansha International,
ISBN 978-4-7700-2357-5 [29]

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Ueshiba, Morihei" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=723). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[2] Ueshiba, Morihei (1992). The Art of Peace. Boston, Massachusetts: Shambhala Publications, Inc.. pp.510. ISBN0-87773-851-3.
[3] Stevens, John.Aikido; the Way of Harmony. Shambhala Publications, Boston, 1984.
[4] Pranin, Stanley (2006) "Interview with Kisshomaru and Morihei Ueshiba" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=98)
Aikidojournal.com
[5] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Ikkyo" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=289). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[6] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Aikijujutsu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=31). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[7] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Hisa Takuma" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=267). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[8] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Ueshiba-ryu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=733). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[9] Pranin, Stanley (2006) "Sokaku Takeda in Osaka" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=223) Aikidojournal.com
[10] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Aiki Budo" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=11). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[11] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=18). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
[12] Ueshiba, Kisshomaru. Aikido Hozansha Publications, Tokyo, 1985.
[13] Interview with Shoji Nishio (1984), Part 1 (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=524) "His face was really beautiful like a
Noh mask of an old man. If one dies of cancer, there is usually a lot of suffering and the pain remains on the face. But, that wasnt the case
with 0-Sensei. He had a divinely beautiful face."
[14] Dang, P. T., & Seiser, L. (2006): Advanced Aikido (p. 3). Tokyo: Tuttle. (ISBN 978-0-8048-3785-9)
[15] Interview with Shoji Nishio (1984), held on May 22, 1983 in Tokyo (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=524)
[16] Aikido Journal Encyclopedia (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php)
[17] List of Deshi (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20060516183845/ http:/ / www. geocities. com/ Colosseum/ Loge/ 1419/ Deshi. htm)
[18] Interview with Kisshomaru Ueshiba in Aikido Journal (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=125)
[19] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=395
[20] http:/ / www. wadokaiaikido. com
[21] http:/ / www. guillaumeerard. com/ aikido/ interviews/ 14-interview-with-henry-kono
[22] Phong Thong Dang, Lynn Seiser; Advanced Aikido Tuttle Publishing, 2006 ISBN 978-0-8048-3785-9 p17
[23] Stone, J and Myer, R; Aikido in America, Frog Books, 1995, ISBN 978-1-883319-27-4 p2
[24] Stevens, John. Invincible Warrior. ISBN 1-57062-394-5.
[25] North Austin Tae Kwan Do: "Chronology of the Life of Morihei Ueshiba, Founder of Aikido." (http:/ / www. natkd. com/ aikido_timeline.
htm)
[26] L'Harmattan web site (in French) (http:/ / www. editions-harmattan. fr/ index. asp?navig=catalogue& obj=article& no=8245)
[27] http:/ / www. kodansha-intl. com/ books/ html/ en/ 9784770030306. html
[28] http:/ / www. kodansha-intl. com/ books/ html/ en/ 9784770020703. html
[29] http:/ / www. kodansha-intl. com/ books/ html/ en/ 9784770023575. html
Morihei Ueshiba 20

External links
"The Art of Peace", sayings of Morihei Ueshiba translated by John Stevens (http://omlc.ogi.edu/aikido/talk/
osensei/artofpeace/)
A Day in the Life of the Founder Morihei Ueshiba, April 1968 (http://www.nippon-kan.org/senseis_articles/
day-in-the-life.html) By Gaku Homma.
 21

Influences

Takeda Skaku
Takeda Skaku

Retouched photograph of Takeda Skaku circa 1888

Born 10 October 1859
Aizu, Fukushima, Japan

Died 25 April 1943 (aged83)

Japan

Nationality Japanese

Style Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu

Children Takeda Tokimune

Notable students Morihei Ueshiba, Hisa Takuma, Ktar Yoshida

Takeda Skaku ( , October 10, 1859 April 25, 1943) was known as the founder of a school of jujutsu
known as Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu.[1]

Life
Born in the Aizu domain (Fukushima Prefecture),[2] Skaku grew up in a time of war (Boshin) and civil strife and
was able to witness both first hand while still a young boy. The second son of Takeda Skichi, a samurai of the
Takeda clan who worked his farm and taught at a local school and Tomi Kurokochi, a daughter of Dengoro
Kurokochi,[3] a Yari and Kenjutsu master. It is believed that Skaku received his first martial arts training from his
father who had a dojo on their property.[4] Skichi was apparently expert in the use of both sword and spear, and had
once been a sumo wrestler of ozeki rank. It is believed that Skaku was exposed to the teachings of Hzin-ry
Takada-ha and Ono-ha Itt-ry, schools of spear and swordsmanship respectively.[5]
Skaku then left to go on a period of austere training where he travelled, fought and trained at the schools of many
teachers, a not uncommon practise of the time. Reputedly, Skaku spent some time as a live-in student of Kenkichi
Sakakibara, headmaster of the Jikishinkage-ry and considered to be one of the most famous and skilled swordsmen
of the era.[6] [7] Unfortunately there exist no known historical documents to confirm this relationship and so it is a
matter of debate. What is known, however, is that Skaku engaged in many matches and duels with both shinai and
live blades and was considered a swordsman of great skill in a period of time when such things were beginning to be
forgotten.[8]
Takeda Skaku 22

With the outlawing of the samurai class and the prohibition against carrying swords (Haitrei Edict) apparentally
Sokaku decided to emphasize the empty handed, jujutsu oriented, techniques of his ancestor's art.[9] These apparently
were 'oshiki-uchi', or secret teachings of the Aizu clan, up to that point. These, along with other skills he had
acquired, were combined to create an art which he christened first 'Dait-ry jjutsu' and later 'Dait-ry
Aiki-jjutsu'.[10]
In about 1875, rumor reached Skaku that Saig Takamori had launched his rebellion in Satsuma against the forces
of the new Meiji government. He decided immediately that he would go to lend his support. He made it as far as
Kyushu but was unable to reach his destination, so he returned to Osaka where he spent the next ten years as a guest
in the Kyshin Meichi-ry dojo of swordsman Momonoi Shunzo.
Skaku lived a somewhat itinerant life, travelling the length and breadth of the country giving seminars in martial
arts to military officers, police officers and martial arts enthusiasts, often of high social standing. He left extensive
records of those he taught in the 'eimeiroku' and the 'shareikoku' which were attendance and fee ledgers of those who
attended and paid for lessons from him.[11]

Important students
Taking over the role of headmaster of the art was Skaku's son, Tokimune Takeda, who established the Daitokan
school in Hokkaid to promote the art and re-christened it 'Dait-ry Aiki Bud'. Tokimune is said to have
contributed much of the teaching system which exists for the art today; naming and classifying the techniques and
further simplifying the weapons component of the system. He emphasized the Ona ha Itto-ryu portion of the
weapons curriculum over other elements that Skaku taught to some advanced students.[12]
Sokaku's highest ranking students were Hisa Takuma[13] and Masao Tonedate, both high executives of the Asahi
newspaper in Osaka, whose own students established the Takumakai and the Daibukan.[14]
Other important students of Skaku's were Yukiyoshi Sagawa, who some believe was the most talented of his early
students, Kodo Horikawa (Kotaro), whose students established the Kodokai and the Roppokai, Ktar Yoshida,
Hosaku Matsuda and Tomekichi Yamamoto.[15]

Skaku's far reaching influence

His most famous student was the founder of aikido,
Morihei Ueshiba and it is the popularity of this modern
martial arts form that is responsible for much of the
interest in Dait-ry today.
Hosaku Matsuda was taught by Skaku, who in turn
taught Yoshiji Okuyama, who in turn founded the
Hakk-ry Jujutsu school. Okuyama taught Michiomi
Nakano, who later as Dshin S, founder of Nippon
Shorinji Kempo. Choi Yong-Sool, the founder of
Hapkido claimed to have trained under Sokaku as
well.[16]
Takeda family
The influence of the teachings Sokaku Takeda are
readily discernible in the physical techniques of aikido,
Hakko Ryu, Nippon Shorinji Kempo, hapkido and judo's goshin jutsu self defense kata (via Kenji Tomiki) today.[17]
Takeda Skaku 23

References

Notes
[1] Unlocking the Secrets of Aiki-Jujutsu by H. E. Davey, NTC Publishing Group 1997, ISBN 978-1-57028-121-1 ISBN 1570281211
[2] Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters (2006). "History of Daito-ryu: prior to the 19th century" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/
20070706040728/ http:/ / www. daito-ryu. org/ history1_eng. html). History. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters. Archived from the original
(http:/ / www. daito-ryu. org/ history1_eng. html) on 2007-07-06. . Retrieved 2007-07-18.
[3] "Aizu-han kyiku k, Nihon Shiseki Kykai hen", Ogawa, Wataru, Tky Daigaku Shuppankai, Shwa 53 [1978]
[4] "Deadliest Men: The World's Deadliest Combatants Throughout the Ages" Paul Kirchner, Paladin Press 2001, ISBN 1-58160-271-5, ISBN
978-1-58160-271-5 - chap. 35
[5] "The Meiji Man", by Laszlo Abel; The JMAS Newsletter, Vol.3, No.3 1985
[6] Hiiragi, Takefumi (1994). "Famous Swordsmen of Japan (1): Kenkichi Sakakibara" (http:/ / blog. aikidojournal. com/ 2011/ 09/ 07/
famous-swordsmen-of-japan-1-kenkichi-sakakibara-by-takefumi-hiiragi/ ). Aikido Journal. . Retrieved August 6, 2012.
[7] Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters (2006). "History of Daito-ryu: Takeda Skaku" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070706040833/ http:/ /
www. daito-ryu. org/ history2_eng. html). History. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters. Archived from the original (http:/ / www. daito-ryu.
org/ history2_eng. html) on 2007-07-06. . Retrieved 2007-07-18.
[8] "Samurai Aikijutsu", by Toshishiro Obata; Dragon Books 1988
[9] Aizu hanro Saigo Tanomo: Jijoden "Seiunki" shichu, Setsuo Hotta, Tokyo Shoseki 1993 Japan, ISBN 4-487-79067-0 isbn13: 9784487790678
[10] , [ ]. Tokyo, Japan 2003
[11] "Daito ryu Aikijujtsu", by Stanley A. Pranin; Aikinews 1996
[12] , . ISBN 4-938965-56-9 Tokyo, Japan 2008
[13] Papinot, Edmond (1909). Historical and Geographical Dictionary of Japan. Tokyo: Librairie Sansaisha.
[14] "Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu; Hiden Mokuroku" Kondo, Katsuyuki. Aiki News, Tokyo, Japan 2000
[15] "Classical fighting arts of Japan", by Mol Serge; Kodan 1994 ISBN9784770026194
[16] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Choi, Yong-Sool" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=119). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-07-21.
[17] "Bugei Ju-Happan. The Spirit of Samurai", Nakajima Masayoshi Sugiyama Publishing 1983

Further reading
Pranin, Stanley (Editor). Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu; Conversations with Daito-ryu Masters. Aiki News, Tokyo, Japan
1996.
Pranin, Stanley. The Aiki News Encyclopedia of Aikido. Aiki News, Tokyo, Japan 1991.
Kondo, Katsuyuki. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu; Hiden Mokuroku. Aiki News, Tokyo, Japan 2000.

External links
Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu (http://www.daito-ryu.org)
Biography of Sokaku Takeda (http://www.aikidofaq.com/history/takeda.html)
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 24

Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu
( )

Family crest of the Takeda clan.

Also known as Dait-ry; Dait-ry Jujutsu

Date founded c.1900

Country of origin Japan

Founder Takeda Sokaku
( Takeda Skaku, October 10, 1859April 25, 1943)

Current head Multiple independent branches

Arts taught Aiki-jjutsu

Descendant arts Aikido, Hakko Ryu and Hapkido

Ancestor schools Hzin-ry Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ry Kyoshin Meichi-ry Ono-ha Itt-ry Oshikiuchi Sumo

Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu ( ), originally called Dait-ry Jujutsu (

Dait-ry Jjutsu), is a Japanese martial art that first became widely known in the early 20th century under the
headmastership of Takeda Sokaku. Takeda had extensive training in several martial arts (including Kashima Shinden
Jikishinkage-ry and sumo) and referred to the style he taught as "Dait-ry" (literally, "Great Eastern School").
Although the school's traditions claim to extend back centuries in Japanese history there are no known extant records
regarding the ry before Takeda. Whether Takeda is regarded as either the restorer or the founder of the art, the
known history of Dait-ry begins with him.[1] Takeda's best-known student was Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of
aikido.

History
The origins of Dait-ry maintain a direct lineage extending approximately 900 years, originating with Shinra
Sabur Minamoto no Yoshimitsu ( , 10451127), who was a Minamoto clan samurai and
member of the Seiwa Genji (the branch of the Minamoto family descended from the 56th imperial ruler of Japan,
Emperor Seiwa).[2] Dait-ry takes its name from the mansion that Yoshimitsu lived in as a child, called "Dait" (
), in mi Province (modern day Shiga Prefecture).[3] According to legend, Yoshimitsu dissected the corpses of
men killed in battle, studying their anatomy for the purpose of learning techniques for joint-locking and vital point
striking (kyusho-jitsu).[4]
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 25

Yoshimitsu had previously studied the

empty-handed martial art of tegoi, an
ancestor of the Japanese national sport
of sumo, and added what he learned to
the art. He eventually settled down in
Kai Province (modern day Yamanashi
Prefecture), and passed on what he
learned within his family. Ultimately,
Yoshimitsu's great-grandson
Nobuyoshi adopted the surname
"Takeda," which has been the name of
the family to the present day. The
Takeda family remained in Kai
Province until the time of Takeda
Shingen ( , 15211573).
Shingen opposed Tokugawa Ieyasu
and Oda Nobunaga in their campaign
to unify and control all of Japan. With
the death of Shingen and his heir,
Family tree of the Seiwa Genji.
Takeda Katsuyori ( ,
15461582), the Takeda family
relocated to the Aizu domain (an area comprising the western third of modern day Fukushima Prefecture).[3]

Though these events caused the Takeda family to lose some of its
power and influence, it remained intertwined with the ruling class of
Japan. More importantly, the move to Aizu and subsequent events
profoundly shaped what would emerge as Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu in the
19th century. One important event was the adoption of Tokugawa
Ieyasu's grandson, Komatsumaru (16111673), by Takeda Kenshoin
(fourth daughter of Takeda Shingen). Komatsumaru devoted himself to
the study of the Takeda family's martial arts, and was subsequently
adopted by Hoshina Masamitsu. Komatsumaru changed his name to
Hoshina Masayuki ( ), and in 1644 was appointed the
governor of Aizu. As governor, he mandated that all subsequent rulers
of Aizu study the arts of Ono-ha Itt-ry (which he himself had
mastered), as well as the art of oshikiuchi, a martial art which he
developed for shogunal counselors and retainers, tailored to conditions
within the palace. These arts became incorporated into and comingled
with the Takeda family martial arts.[3]

According to the traditions of Dait-ry, it was these arts which Retouched photograph of Takeda Sokaku, c.1888.

Takeda Sokaku began teaching to non-members of the family in the

late 19th century. Takeda had also studied swordsmanship and spearmanship with his father, Takeda Sokichi, as well
as Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ry as an uchi-deshi (live-in student) under the renowned swordsman Sakakibara
Kenkichi.[5] During his life, Sokaku traveled extensively to attain his goal of preserving his family's traditions by
spreading Dait-ry throughout Japan.[4]
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 26

Takeda Sokaku's third son, Tokimune Takeda ( Takeda Tokimune, 19161993), became the
headmaster of the art following Sokaku's death in 1943. Tokimune taught what he called "Dait-ry Aikibud" (
), an art that included the sword techniques of the Ono-ha Itt-ry along with the traditional
techniques of Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu. It was also under Tokimune's headmastership that modern dan rankings were
first created and awarded to the students of Dait-ry. Tokimune Takeda died in 1993 leaving no official successor,
but a few of his high-ranking students, such as Katsuyuki Kondo ( Kond Katsuyuki, 1945) and
Shigemitsu Kato, now head their own Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu organizations.[6]

Aiki-jjutsu
Aiki-jjutsu is a form that can be broken into three styles: Jujutsu (hard/ soft); Aiki no Jutsu (soft); and Aikijujutsu
(soft) which is the combination of the former two. Modern Japanese Jujutsu and Aikido both are styles that originate
in Aikijujutsu. It emphasizes "an early neutralization of an attack."[7] Like other forms of jujutsu, it emphasizes
throwing techniques and joint manipulations to effectively control, subdue, or injure an attacker. Of particular
importance is the timing of a defensive technique to either blend or neutralize an incoming attack's effectiveness and
use the force of the attacker's movement against them. Dait-ry is characterized by ample use of atemi, or the
striking of vital areas, in order to set up jointlocking or throwing tactics.
Some of the art's striking methods employ the swinging of the outstretched arms to create power and to hit with the
fists at deceptive angles, as may be observed in techniques such as the atemi that sets up gyaku ude-dori (reverse
elbow lock). Tokimune Takeda regarded one of the unique characteristics of the art to be its preference for
controlling a downed attacker's joints with one's knee in order to leave one's hands free to access one's weapons or to
deal with the threat of other oncoming attackers.[8]

Branches
Currently, there are a number of organizations that teach Dait-ry, each tracing their lineage back to Takeda Sokaku
through one of four of his students. Those four students are: Takeda Tokimune, the progenitor of the Tokimune
branch; Takuma Hisa ( Hisa Takuma, 18951980), of the Hisa branch; Kd Horikawa (
Horikawa Kd, 18941980), of the Horikawa branch; and Yukiyoshi Sagawa (Sagawa Yukiyoshi, 19021998), of
the Sagawa branch.[9]

Tokimune
The Tokimune branch descends from the teachings of Tokimune Takeda, the son of Takeda Sokaku, and designated
successor of Dait-ry upon the father's death. When Tokimune died, he had not appointed a successor; there are two
main groups that carry on his teachings.
The first group is led by Katsuyuki Kondo, who began his training under Tsunejiro Hosono and continued training
under Ktar Yoshida ( Yoshida Ktar, 18831966) for a time, before being introduced to
Tokimune. On the basis of the high level teaching licenses Kondo was granted by Tokimune, his followers represent
his school as the Dait-ry 'mainline.' He has much support in the martial arts community for this. Kondo has done
much to increase the visibility of the art by hosting seminars both in Tokyo and abroad, especially in the United
States.[10]
The second group from the Tokimune branch is headed by Shigemitsu Kato and Gunpachi Arisawa, who are
long-time students and teachers from Tokimune's original Daitokan headquarters in Hokkaid. This organization is
called the Nihon Daito Ryu Aikibudo Daito Kai ( Nihon Dait-ry
Aikibud Dait Kai). They maintain a smaller organization in Hokkaid, with strong connections to practitioners in
Europe (especially Italy), the United States, and Brazil.[11]
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 27

Hisa
The second major branch of Dait-ry is represented by students of Takuma
Hisa. His students banded together and founded the Takumakai ( ).
They have a wealth of materials in the form of film and still photographs,
taken at the Asahi Newspaper dojo, recording the Dait-ry techniques taught
to them, first by Morihei Ueshiba and then later by Takeda Sokaku directly.
One of their major training manuals, called the Sden, features techniques
taught to them by both masters.[12]
The Asahi Newspaper office in Osaka,
The Takumakai represents the second largest aiki-jjutsu organization. In the Japan, where many Dait-ry techniques
1980s, led by Shogen Okabayashi (Okabayashi Shogen, born 1949), who was were preserved on film as originally
taught by both Morihei Ueshiba and
sent by the elderly Hisa to train under the headmaster, the Takumakai made a
Takeda Sokaku.
move to implement the forms for teaching the fundamentals of the art as
originally established by Tokimune Takeda. This move upset some preservers
of Hisa's original teaching method, leading to the formation of a new organization called the Daibukan, founded by a
long term student of Hisa, Kenkichi Ohgami (gami Kenkichi, born 1936).[13] Later, in order to implement greater
changes to the curriculum, Okabayashi himself chose to separate from the Takumakai and formed the
Hakuho-ryu.[14]

Horikawa
The Horikawa branch descends from the teachings of Kd Horikawa, who is regarded as a talented innovator in the
art. A few organizations have been formed based on his teachings.
The Kodokai ( Kdkai) was founded by students of Horikawa, whose distinctive interpretation of aiki
movements can be seen in the movements of his students.[15] The Kodokai is located in Hokkaid and is headed by
Yusuke Inoue (Inoue Yasuke, born 1932). Both Inoue's father and his main teacher, Horikawa, were direct students
of Takeda Sokaku. Inoue received his teaching license (Menkyo Kaiden) in accordance with Horikawa's final wishes.
There are two major teachers who branched off from the Kodokai to establish their own traditions. The first was
Seig Okamoto ( Okamoto Seig, born 1925) who founded the Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai (
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu Roppkai). His interpretation of aiki and minimal movement
throws have proved very popular. The organization has a great following abroad, especially in the United States and
Europe.[16][17] The other group was that of Katsumi Yonezawa ( Yonezawa Katsumi, 19371998),
who founded his own organization, called the Bokuykan ( ). In the early 1970s, while Yonezawa was still
a senior teacher at the Kodokai, he was the first person to bring Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu to the United States and
Canada.[18] The Bokuykan is currently run by his son Hiromitsu Yonezawa (Yonezawa Hiromitsu), headquartered
in Hokkaid, with a following at the Yonezawa dojo and several branches in the United States, as well as a dojo in
Germany.[19]
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 28

Sagawa
The last major group consists of students of Yukiyoshi Sagawa (
, Sagawa Yukiyoshi, 19021998), who was once considered to be
the successor to Takeda Sokaku (should Tokimune not have survived
World War II). Sagawa ran only a single dojo and taught a relatively
small number of students. He began studying Dait-ry under Takeda
Sokaku in 1914 after first learning the art from his father, Sagawa
Nenokichi (18671950), who was also a student of Sokaku and a
holder of a kyoju dairi (teaching license) in the system. Although
considered by many to be one of the most accomplished students of
The University of Tsukuba, where members of
Sokaku,[20] Yukiyoshi Sagawa received the kyoju dairi in 1932but
the Sagawa branch teach aiki-jjutsu, today.
did not receive the menkyo kaiden (certificate of mastery) of the
system's secrets, as during the time he practised under Takeda Sokaku,
the highest licence was not the menkyo kaiden. Sagawa often served as a teaching assistant to Takeda and traveled
with him to various locations in Japan teaching Daito-ryu. He further developed the art of applying Aiki and is said
to have remained powerful until very late in life, and - as a consequence of the success of Transparent Power - was
featured in a series of articles in the Aiki News magazines prior to his death in 1998.[20]

Tatsuo Kimura ( Kimura Tatsuo, born 1947), a mathematics professor at the University of Tsukuba
and a senior student of Sagawa, runs a small aiki-jjutsu study group at that institution. He has written two books
about his training under Sagawa: Transparent Power and Discovering Aiki.[21]

Aiki concept
Takeda Sokaku defined aiki in the following way:

[22]

The secret of aiki is to overpower the opponent mentally at a glance and to win without fighting.

Tokimune Takeda, speaking on the same subject during an interview, said:

Could you explain in a little more detail about the concept of aiki? Aiki is to pull when you are pushed, and to push when you are pulled. It
is the spirit of slowness and speed, of harmonizing your movement with your opponent's ki. Its opposite, kiai, is to push to the limit, while aiki
never resists.
The term aiki has been used since ancient times and is not unique to Daito-ryu. The ki in aiki is go no sen, meaning to respond to an attack.
... Daito-ryu is all go no senyou first evade your opponent's attack and then strike or control him. Likewise, Itto-ryu is primarily go no sen.
You attack because an opponent attacks you. This implies not cutting your opponent. This is called katsujinken (life-giving sword). Its
opposite is called setsuninken (death-dealing sword).
Aiki is different from the victory of sen sen, and is applied in situations of go no sen, such as when an opponent thrusts at you. Therein lies the
essence of katsujinken and setsuninken. You block the attack when an opponent approaches; at his second attack you break his sword and
spare his life. This is katsujinken. When an opponent strikes at you and your sword pierces his stomach it is setsuninken. These two concepts
[8]
are the essence of the sword.
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 29

Classification of techniques
Dait-ry techniques involve both jujutsu and aiki-jjutsu applications. Techniques are broken up into specific lists
which are trained sequentially; that is, a student will not progress to the next "catalogue" of techniques until he/she
has mastered the previous one. Upon completion of each catalogue, a student is awarded a certificate or scroll that
lists all of the techniques of that level. These act as levels of advancement within the school, and was a common
system among classical Japanese martial arts schools before the era of belts, grades, and degrees.[23]
The first category of techniques in the system, the shoden waza, is not devoid of aiki elements, though it emphasizes
the more direct jujutsu joint manipulation techniques. The second group of techniques, the aiki-no-jutsu, tends to
emphasize the utilization of one's opponent's movement or intention in order to subdue him/herusually with a
throwing or a pinning technique. A list of the catalogues in the Tokimune branch's system and the number of
techniques contained within follows:[23]

Catalogue Name No. of Techniques

1 Secret Syllabus ( Hiden Mokuroku) 118

2 The Science of Joining Spirit ( Aiki-no-jutsu) 53

3 [24] 36
Inner Mysteries ( Hiden gi)

4 [25] 84
Techniques of Self Defense ( Goshin'y-no-te)

5 Explanation of the Inheritance ( Kaishaku Sden) 477

6 License of Complete Transmission (Menkyo Kaiden) 88

Officially, the Dait-ry system is said to comprise thousands of techniques, divided into omote and ura (literally,
'front' and 'back' versions), but many of these could be seen as variations upon the core techniques. In addition,
Sokaku and Tokimune awarded scrolls denoting certain portions of the curriculum, such as techniques utilizing the
long and short sword.
To the list above, the Takumakai adds the "Daito-ryu Aiki Nito-ryu Hiden".[26] The Takumai also makes substantial
use of the photographic documents of techniques taught at the Asahi Newspaper dojo by Morihei Ueshiba and
Takeda Sokaku, which are compiled into a series of 11 training manuals called the Sden.[27]

Influence
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 30

Today, Dait-ry is the most widely practised school of traditional

Japanese jujutsu in Japan.[28] The significant interest in this martial art,
which has much in common with the many less popular classical
Japanese jujutsu schools, is probably due largely to the success of
Takeda Sokaku's student Morihei Ueshiba, and the art that he founded,
aikido. Aikido is practised internationally and has hundreds of
thousands of adherents.[29] Many of those interested in aikido have
traced the art's origins back to Dait-ry, which has increased the level
of interest in an art which was otherwise virtually unknown a few
decades before.

Aikido's influence was significant even in its early years, prior to

World War II, when Ueshiba was teaching a more overtly combative
form closer to Dait-ry. One of the main conduits of the influence of
Ueshiba's pre-war aiki-jjutsu was Kenji Tomiki, founder of Shodokan Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of aikido.
Aikido.[30][31] Tomiki was already ranked 5th dan in judo when he
began studying under Ueshiba. Today's goshin jutsu kata, or "forms of self defense" (created in 1956 by a team of
experts after Kan Jigor's death, and thus not belonging to original judo), preserve these teachings, as does Tomiki's
own organization of Shodokan Aikido.[32][33]

Related arts
The concept of aiki is an old one, and was common to other classical Japanese schools of armed combat.[22] There
are some other styles of Japanese jujutsu that use the term aiki-jjutsu, but there are no records of its use prior to the
Meiji era.[22] Many modern schools influenced by aikido presently utilize the term to describe their use of aikido-like
techniques with a more combative mindset.
There are a number of martial arts in addition to aikido which appear, or claim, to be descended from the art of
Dait-ry or the teachings of Takeda Sokaku. Among them are: the Korean martial art of hapkido founded by Choi
Yong Sul, who as an orphan in Japan was trained and raised under Takeda Sokaku;[34] Hakk-ry, founded by
Okuyama Yoshiharu, who trained under Takeda Sokaku; and Shorinji Kempo, founded by Nakano Michiomi (later
known as So Doshin), who is known to have trained under Okuyama. Many techniques from Hakko-ryu are similar
to the techniques of Daito-ryu.[22] Numerous other schools of aiki-jjutsu (or the variation aikijutsu) also claim some
sort of lineage to Takeda Sokaku or Dait-ry.

References
[1] Mol, Serge (June 6, 2001). Classical Fighting Arts of Japan: A Complete Guide to Koryu Jujutsu. Tokyo, Japan: Kodansha International.
ISBN978-4-7700-2619-4.
[2] Papinot, Edmond (1909). Historical and Geographical Dictionary of Japan. Tokyo: Librairie Sansaisha.
[3] Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters (2006). "History of Daito-ryu: prior to the 19th century" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/
20070706040728/ http:/ / www. daito-ryu. org/ history1_eng. html). History. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters. Archived from the original
(http:/ / www. daito-ryu. org/ history1_eng. html) on 2007-07-06. . Retrieved 2007-07-18.
[4] Takuma Hisa Sensei, Shin Budo magazine, November 1942. republished as Hisa, Takuma (Summer 1990). "Daito-Ryu Aiki Budo" (http:/ /
www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=497). Aiki News 85. . Retrieved 2007-07-18.
[5] Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters (2006). "History of Daito-ryu: Takeda Sokaku" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070706040833/ http:/ /
www. daito-ryu. org/ history2_eng. html). History. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters. Archived from the original (http:/ / www. daito-ryu.
org/ history2_eng. html) on 2007-07-06. . Retrieved 2007-07-18.
[6] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Takeda, Tokimune" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=666). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[7] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Daito-Ryu Aikijujutsu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=134). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-07-20.
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 31

[8] Pranin, Stanley (1996). Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu: Conversations with Daito-ryu Masters. Tokyo: Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-18-8.
[9] Kondo, Katsuyuki (2000). Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu: Hiden Mokuroku Ikkajo. Tokyo: Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-60-9.
[10] Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters (2006). "Kondo Katsuyuki" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070706040804/ http:/ / www. daito-ryu.
org/ history4_eng. html). History. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Headquarters. Archived from the original (http:/ / www. daito-ryu. org/ history4_eng.
html) on 2007-07-06. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[11] European Daito Ryu Aikibudo Daito Kai. "Affiliate nations to our association" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070318032142/ http:/ /
www. daito-ryu. com/ en/ one. htm). Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Aikibudo. www.daito-ryu.com. Archived from the original (http:/ / www. daito-ryu.
com/ en/ one. htm) on 2007-03-18. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[12] Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu Takumakai. "The Takumakai: An Outline" (http:/ / www. asahi-net. or. jp/ ~DE6S-UMI/ tkm01. htm).
www.asahi-net.or.jp. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[13] Daibukan Dojo (2003). "Information on the Daibukan" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070216195610/ http:/ / www. h2. dion. ne. jp/
~daibukan/ index_e. html). Daibukan @ Daitoryu Aiki Jujutsu. Daibukan Dojo. Archived from the original (http:/ / www. h2. dion. ne. jp/
~daibukan/ index_e. html) on 2007-02-16. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[14] www.koryukan.com. "Interview with Okabayashi Sensei, founder and headmaster of Daito Ryu Hakuho Kai, and Rod Ulher as interpreter."
(http:/ / www. koryukan. com/ En/ articles. html). Articles And Events. www.koryukan.com. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[15] Pranin, Stanley (January 1990). "On separate language editions, Seigo Okamoto and Hakko-ryu Jujutsu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/
article?articleID=9). Aiki News 83. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[16] Pranin, Stanley (Spring 1990). "Interview with Seigo Okamoto Shihan (02)" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=402&
highlight=kodokai). Aiki News 84. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[17] Roppokai (2005). "History" (http:/ / www. daitoryu-roppokai. org/ site/ Information/ History/ tabid/ 55/ Default. aspx). Information.
www.daitoryu-roppokai.org. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[18] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Yonezawa, Katsumi" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=778). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[19] Tung, Tim (2005). "Links" (http:/ / TungBudo. com/ links. htm). TungBudo.com. Cat and Moon Productions. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[20] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Sagawa, Yukiyoshi" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=563). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[21] Wollos, Paul. "Report on Sagawa-ha Daito-ryu Aikibujutsu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=242). Aikido Journal.
. Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[22] Draeger, Donn F. (February 1, 1996). Modern Bujutsu & Budo: The Martial Arts and Ways of Japan, Volume Three. Boston, Massachusetts:
Weatherhill. ISBN978-0-8348-0351-0.
[23] Pranin, Stanley (Summer 1992). "Interview with Katsuyuki Kondo (2)" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=311). Aiki
News 92. . Retrieved 2007-07-21.
[24] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Hiden Ogi (No Koto)" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=260). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-08-01.
[25] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Goshin'yo No Te" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=229). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-08-01.
[26] Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu Takumakai. "Techniques" (http:/ / www. asahi-net. or. jp/ ~DE6S-UMI/ tkm05. htm). The System of Techniques of
Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu. www.asahi-net.or.jp. . Retrieved 2007-07-21.
[27] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Soden" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=844). Encyclopedia of Aikido. . Retrieved
2007-07-21.
[28] Pranin, Stanley (January 1989). "Daito-Ryu Aiki Jujutsu: The Present State of Affairs" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/
article?articleID=439). Aiki News 79. . Retrieved 2007-07-21.
[29] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Preface to the Print Edition" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia). Encyclopedia of Aikido. . Retrieved
2007-07-21.
[30] Shodokan Aikido International Headquarters (2007). "Morihei Ueshiba and Kenji Tomiki" (http:/ / homepage2. nifty. com/ shodokan/ en/
rekishi3. html). History of aikido. Shodokan HQ. . Retrieved 2007-07-21.
[31] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Tomiki, Kenji" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=704). Encyclopedia of Aikido. . Retrieved
2007-07-21.
[32] Ohlenkamp, Neil; Allen Gordon (2005). "Forms of Self Defense: Kodokan Goshin Jutsu" (http:/ / www. judoinfo. com/ katagosh. htm).
JudoInfo Online Dojo. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[33] Shodokan Aikido International Headquarters (2007). "Shodokan and the Japan Aikido Association" (http:/ / homepage2. nifty. com/
shodokan/ en/ jaa. html). Shodokan HQ. . Retrieved 2007-07-20.
[34] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Choi, Yong Sul" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=119). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-07-21.
Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu 32

Further reading
Profiles of several teachers mentioned above. (http://www.daitoryu.net/daito-ryu-history.html)
Essay on Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu succession (PDF) (http://www.daito-do.it/sito/images/An essay on Daito.pdf)
On training with Yukiyoshi Sagawa (http://www.aikidojournal.com/article.php?articleID=179)
Kimura, Tatsuo. "Transparent Power - A Secret Teaching Revealed; The Extraordinary Martial Artist Yukiyoshi
Sagawa." MAAT Press, 2009

External links
Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu - Katsuyuki Kondo's organization (http://www.daito-ryu.org/en/)
Takumakai - Takuma Hisa's organization (http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/~DE6S-UMI/index.htm)
Daitokai - Shigemitsu Kato's organization (http://www.daito-ryu.com)
Daibukan - Kenkichi Ohgami's organization (http://www14.ocn.ne.jp/~daibukan/index.html)
Hakuho-ryu - Shogen Okabayashi's organization (http://hakuhoryu.whiteoakdojo.com/)
Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai - Seigo Okamoto's organization (http://www.daitoryu-roppokai.org)
Documentary on the Tokyo branch of the Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu Takumakai (http://www.guillaumeerard.com/
en/aikido/videos/documentary-on-daito-ryu-aiki-jujutsu-takumakai.html)

Onisaburo Deguchi
Onisaburo Deguchi ( Deguchi Onisabur),
born Ueda Kisabur (1871-1948), is considered
the second spiritual leader of the Oomoto religious movement in
Japan.
Onisaburo had studied Honda Chikaatsu's "Spirit Studies" (Honda
Reigaku), he also learned to mediate spirit possession (chinkon
kishin) from Honda's disciple Nagasawa Katsutate in Shizuoka. He
met the founder of Omotokyo in 1898 and in 1899 they established
the Kinmeikai, later called Kinmei Reigakkai. In 1900 Kisabur
married Nao's fifth daughter Sumi and adopted the name Deguchi
Onisabur.

In 1908 he and Deguchi Nao founded the Dai Nihon Shseikai

which in 1913 became Taihonky and in 1916 the Kd moto.
In 1923, he learned Esperanto, an international planned language,
and introduced it to the activities of Oomoto.
He is remembered as a jovial patriarch of that school, and is best
known to Westerners as a teacher and religious instructor of
Onisaburo Deguchi
Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of aikido.
A believer in the Oomoto maxim that it was humanity's duty to move forward together, bringing about a new age of
existence on Earth, Onisaburo went to great lengths to promote the syncretic faith preached by Nao Deguchi. He
wrote the Reikai Monogatari (Tales of the Spirit World), an 81-volume work which covered his alleged travels into
the spiritual planes of existence, as well as many other theologically permeated stories which expounded on
numerous Oomoto spiritual ideals.
Throughout his life, Onisaburo was often quite flamboyant, taking delight in wearing richly textured costumes of his
own design and posing as a wide variety of deities, mostly Buddhist or Shinto. He would also dress as a shaman, and
Onisaburo Deguchi 33

often even took up the appearances of female divinities. His outlook on life tended to be eclectic, sometimes even to
the point of being outrageous. At varying points of his lifetime, he claimed to be an incarnation of Miroku Butsu
(Sanskrit: Maitreya Buddha), and often referred to himself as a remodeller of the world.
Like most Oomoto followers, Onisaburo believed that the original kami founders of Japan, were driven away by the
kami of the imperial line. This placed him in opposition to the authorities at the time, though he had the ability to
hide it. This again differentiated him from Nao Deguchi, who was more open and direct in her proclamations.
Onisaburo was quite talented in quieting the government officials while at the same time subverting their efforts that
he found distasteful or amoral.
Onisaburo's legacy is largely concerned with art, including a wealth of calligraphic and poetic works. He also
dabbled in cinema, sculpture, and pottery, leaving behind thousands of items which are now considered by many
enthusiasts to be of great value.

References

Further reading
Nancy K. Stalker, "Prophet Motive: Deguchi Onisaburo, Oomoto and the Rise of New Religion in Imperial
Japan," University Of Hawaii, 2008, ISBN 0-8248-3226-4
Emily Groszos Ooms, Women and Millenarian Protest in Meiji Japan: Deguchi Nao and Omotokyo, Cornell
Univ East Asia Program, 1993, ISBN 978-0-939657-61-2
The Great Onisaburo Deguchi, by Kyotaro Deguchi, translated by Charles Rowe, ISBN 4-900586-54-4
Murakami Shigeyoshi. Japanese Religion in the Modern Century. Translated by H. Byron Earhart. Tokyo, 1980.
Originally published as Kindai hyakunen no shukyo. ISBN 978-0-86008-260-6

External links
The Moon of Onisaburo Deguchi (http://www2.plala.or.jp/wani-san/)
Oomoto's Co-Founder, Onisaburo Deguchi (http://www.oomoto.or.jp/English/enKyos/seisi-en.html)
Reading "The Great Onisaburo Deguchi" by Ruth Reiser (http://www.oomoto.or.jp/English/enVisitor/
enRkyo/rkyom-en.html)
Poem of Onisaburo in Kyoto (http://www.erasmuspc.com/index.php?id=18230&type=article)
Oomoto 34

Oomoto
Oomoto ( moto, literally "Great Source" or "Great Origin")[1]
also known as Oomoto-kyo ( moto-ky), is a sect, often
categorised as a new Japanese religion originated from Shinto; it was
founded in 1892 by Deguchi Nao (18361918). The spiritual leaders of
the movement have predominantly been women; however, Deguchi
Onisabur (18711948) has been considered an important figure in
Omoto as a seishi (spiritual teacher). Since 2001, the movement has
been guided by its fifth leader, Kurenai Deguchi.

History
Deguchi Nao, a housewife from the tiny town of Ayabe in Kyoto
Prefecture, declared that she had a "spirit dream" at the lunar New
Year in 1892, becoming possessed (kamigakari) by Ushitora no Konjin
and starting to transmit his words. According to the official Oomoto
biography of Deguchi, she came from a family which had long been in
poverty, and had pawned nearly all of her possessions to feed her Deguchi Onisaburo

children and invalid husband. Deguchi was certainly not an otherwise

famous figure and independent accounts of her do not exist. After 1895, and with a growing quantity of followers,
she became a teacher of the Konkky religion. In 1898 she met Ueda Kisabur who had previous studies in
kamigakari (spirit possession) and in 1899 they established the Kinmeikai which became the Kinmei Reigakkai later
in the same year. In 1900 Kisabur married Naos fifth daughter Sumi and adopted the name Deguchi Onisabur.
Omoto was thus established based on Nao's automatic writings (Ofudesaki) and Onisaburs spiritual techniques.

Since 1908 the group has taken diverse names, Dai Nihon Shseikai, Taihonky (1913) and Kd moto (1916).
Later the movement changed from Kd moto ("great origin of the imperial way") to just moto ("great origin")
and formed the Shwa Seinenkai in 1929 and the Shwa Shinseikai in 1934.
Asano Wasabur, a teacher at Japans Naval College, attracted various intellectuals and high-ranking military
officials to the movement in 1916. By 1920 the group had their own newspaper, the Taish nichinichi shinbun, and
started to expand overseas.
The first "Omoto incident" (moto jiken), in 1921, was a government intervention followed in 1935 by the "Second
moto Incident". The 1935 incident left its headquarters destroyed and its leaders in captivity. The promotion of
kokutai and the Imperial Way resulted in the sect being condemned for worshipping figures other than Amaterasu,
which distracted from the figure of the emperor.[2]
After World War II, the organization reappeared as Aizenen, a movement dedicated to achieve world peace, and
with that purpose it was registered in 1946 under the Religious Corporations Ordinance.
In 1949 moto joined the World Federalist Movement and the world peace campaign. In 1952 the group returned to
its older name, becoming the religious corporation moto under the Religious Corporations Law. At present time,
the movement has its headquarters at Kyoto Prefecture and has a nominal membership of approximately 170,000.
There is a temple for religious services in Ayabe, and a mission in a large park on the former site of Kameoka Castle
that includes offices, schools, a publishing house, and shrines in Kameoka.
Oomoto 35

International activities
Since the time of Onisaburo Deguchi, the constructed language Esperanto has played a major role in the Oomoto
religion. Starting in 1924, the religion has published books and magazines in Esperanto and this continues today.
Almost all of the 45,000 active members of Oomoto have studied some Esperanto, and around 1,000 are fluent in the
language.
From 1925 until 1933 Oomoto maintained a mission in Paris. From there, missionaries travelled throughout Europe,
spreading the word that Onisaburo Deguchi was a Messiah or Maitreya, who would unify the world.
For several years an Oomoto office and temple has been open in the capital of Brazil, Brasilia. The local Esperanto
speakers have assisted considerably.

Doctrine
Omotokyo, was strongly influenced by Konkokyo, Ko-shinto (ancient Shinto) and folk spiritual and divination
traditions; it also integrated Kokugaku (National Studies) teachings and modern ideas on world harmony and peace,
creating a new doctrine. It shares with Konkokyo the belief in the benevolence of Konjin, who was previously
considered an evil kami, and shares with other ancient Shinto schools the teachings that proclaim the achievement of
personal virtue as a step to universal harmony.
Members of Oomoto believe in several kami. The most important are Ookunitokotachi, Ushitora Konjin and
Hitsujisaru. Oomoto members also tend to recognize notable religious figures from other religions, or even notable
non-religious figures, as kami for example, the creator of Esperanto, L. L. Zamenhof is revered as a god. However,
all of these kami are believed to be aspects of a single God concept.
The belief that two kami, Kunitokodachi no Mikoto and Susano-o no Mikoto, were the original founders and rulers
of Japan, who were driven away by Amaterasu mikami, the divine ancestor of the imperial line, is what placed this
religion in opposition to the government in pre-war Japan.

Known followers
One of the more well-known followers of Oomoto was Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, a Japanese
martial art. It is commonly thought that Ueshiba's increasing attachment to pacifism in later years and belief that
Aikido should be an "art of peace" were inspired by his involvement with the sect. Oomoto priests oversee a
ceremony in Ueshiba's honor every April 29 at the Aiki Shrine at Iwama.
Yamantaka Eye visual artist, DJ and member of avant musical group Boredoms
Mokichi Okada, founder of the Church of World Messianity (aka Shinju Shumeikai), was a follower of Oomoto
prior to founding his own religion.
Masaharu Taniguchi, founder of the Seicho-no-ie, was also a follower of Oomoto prior to founding his own
religion.
Oomoto does not encourage people from outside Japan to join the religion, holding that it is too difficult for
foreigners to understand traditional Japanese rituals.[1]
Oomoto 36

References
[1] "Frequently Asked Questions About Oomoto" (http:/ / www. oomoto. or. jp/ English/ enFaq/ indexfaq. html). moto. . Retrieved 2010.
[2] James L. McClain, Japan: A Modern History p 469 ISBN 0-393-04156-5

Further reading
Nancy K. Stalker, "Prophet Motive: Deguchi Onisaburo, Oomoto and the Rise of New Religion in Imperial
Japan," University Of Hawaii, 2008, ISBN 0-8248-3226-4
Emily Groszos Ooms, Women and Millenarian Protest in Meiji Japan: Deguchi Nao and Omotokyo, Cornell
Univ East Asia Program, 1993, ISBN 978-0-939657-61-2
The Great Onisaburo Deguchi, by Kyotaro Deguchi, translated by Charles Rowe, ISBN 4-900586-54-4
Iwao, Hino. The Outline of Oomoto. Kameoka, Japan, 1968.
Murakami Shigeyoshi. Japanese Religion in the Modern Century. Translated by H. Byron Earhart. Tokyo, 1980.
Originally published as Kindai hyakunen no shukyo. ISBN 978-0-86008-260-6
Yasumaru Yoshio. Deguchi Nao Tokyo, 1977.

External links
Bankyo Dokon (http://www.oomoto.jp/enDokon/) Seventy Years of Inter-Religious Activity at Oomoto,
Oomoto Foundation, 1997
Nao Deguchi (http://www.oomoto.or.jp/English/enKyos/kaisoden/index.html) A Biography of the
Foundress of Oomoto, Based on Kaiso-den by Sakae ishi, translated by Charles Rowe and Yasuko Matsudaira,
Oomoto Foundation, 1982
Nordenstorm, L. motos mission p esperanto. En japansk ny religion i frndring frn kiliastisk
Maitreyafrvntan till religionsdialog. (The moto-Mission in Esperanto. A Japanese new religion changing
from chiliastic Ma-itreya-awaiting to religious dialogue.) (http://www.diva-portal.org/diva/
getDocument?urn_nbn_se_uu_diva-1932-1__fulltext.pdf) Esperantofrlaget/Eldona Societo Esperanto.
Stockholm, 2002. In Swedish with summaries in English and in Esperanto.
Oomoto (http://www.oomoto.or.jp/) (Official site)
Oomoto (http://www.tryte.com.br/Oomoto/en/index.php) (at www.tryte.com.br)
 37

Basic principles

Aikido concepts
Aikido concepts are ideas that form the philosophical or technical basis of the Japanese martial art aikido.

Aiki
Aiki means the defender blends without clashing with the attacker, then goes on to dominate the assailant through the
application of internal strength or Ki energy to effect techniques. Blending with an attacker's movements allows the
Aiki practitioner to control the actions of the attacker with minimal effort.

Hanmi
Hanmi ( ) means "half body". The idea that the sides of the body work as a unit (for example: left hand and left
foot forward). Usually, though not exclusively, descriptive of the movement in Aikido. Closely related to the
development of Chushin-ryoku.
Often used to refer to the triangular stance (kamae) of Aikido. Similar stances and the same word are used in other
martial arts and traditional theater, including sumo and kygen.

Chushin-ryoku
Chushin-ryoku ( chshin-ryoku) means "center of power".

Chushin-sen
Chushin-sen ( chshin-sen) means "center line". The term is also associated with kendo.

Ichi-go ichi-e
Ichi-go ichi-e ( , literally "one time, one meeting") describes a cultural concept often linked with tea
master Sen no Rikyu. The term is often translated as "for this time only", "never again", or "one chance in a
lifetime". Ichi-go ichi-e is linked with Zen Buddhism and concepts of transience. The term is particularly associated
with the Japanese tea ceremony, and is often brushed onto scrolls which are hung in the tea room. In the context of
tea ceremony, ichi-go ichi-e reminds participants that each tea meeting is unique.
Aikido concepts 38

Irimi
Irimi ( ) describes entering straight into a technique, as opposed to the more indirect entrance into technique
called tenkan. Irimi usually looks like a step forward, straight or at an angle but usually ending with the body facing
the attacker, rather than in the direction of the step. To enter with irimi, the defender needs to move in the very
moment of the attack or even himself initiate it.

Katsu hayabi
Katsu hayabi ( , "victory at the speed of light") is a highly developed state in which an aikido practitioner
has reached spiritual and moral perfection, and becomes immune to violence. "Victory" occurs at the speed of light --
meaning instantaneousbecause an opponent cannot even begin an attack.

Koky-Ryoku
koky Ryoku ("Breath Power") Is the concept of relaxed power generated from the tanden. There is an implication in
the word koky that this type of power does not clash with uke.[1]

Kuzushi
Kuzushi ( ) is the Japanese term for unbalancing an opponent in the martial arts. The noun comes from the
intransitive verb, kuzusu, meaning to level, pull down, or demolish. As such, it refers to not just an unbalancing, but
the process of getting an opponent into a position where his stability, and hence ability to regain compromised
balance, is destroyed.

Maai
Maai ( ) refers to the space between two opponents in combat. It is a complex concept, incorporating not
just the distance between opponents, but also the time it will take to cross the distance, angle and rhythm of attack. It
is specifically the exact position from which one opponent can strike the other, after factoring in the above elements.
For example, a faster opponent's maai is farther away than a slower opponent. It is ideal for one opponent to
maintain maai while preventing the other from doing so.

Masakatsu agatsu
Masakatsu agatsu ( , lit. "true victory (is) self victory")[2] is a 4 character compound expressing a
concept in Japanese martial arts, particularly aikido, referring to the true victory of self-mastery.[3] It was a common
saying of aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba which emphasizes that aikido is not a competitive martial art like judo or
taekwondo.

Shinmu fusatsu
Shinmu fusatsu ( , lit. "true budo doesn't kill") states that in aikido one should not kill the opponent. It is
related to the kenjutsu concepts of setsuninto ( the sword that takes life; also satsujinken [4]) and
katsujinken ( the sword that gives life).[5]
Aikido concepts 39

Tai sabaki
Tai sabaki ( ) relates to 'whole body movement', or repositioning. It can be translated as body-management.
It is a term used widely in kendo, jujutsu, aikido, judo, karate and ninjutsu. Tai sabaki is usually used to avoid an
attack, such that the receiver of the attack ends up in an advantageous position and it is often wrongly referred to as
"evasion."

Takemusu
Takemusu ( ) was the concept developed by Morihei Ueshiba of how the ultimate martial art should be, how his
aikido should be, an art which may harmonize all living beings and free techniques could be spontaneously
executed.[6][7]
In his latest years, Ueshiba developed the more spiritual aspects of his art and even adopted the name Takemusu
Tsunamori under which he left many paintings and poems.[8]

Tenkan
Tenkan ( , lit. convert or divert) is a 180-degree pivot to one's rear, on the lead foot.

Zanshin
Zanshin ( ) refers to a state of awareness of relaxed alertness. The literal translation of zanshin is "remaining
mind". Zanshin sometimes refers more narrowly to the body's posture after a technique is executed.

Yamabiko
Yamabiko ( ) The concept of calling out the attack rather than waiting for the attacker. The term presumably
comes from a poem by the founder. [9]
It is loosely related to the concept of Sasoi ( ) or of inviting the attack.

References
[1] http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=wJouu8ahM7I
[2] " " (http:/ / ameblo. jp/ doyukai/ entry-10240186961. html). 2009-04-10. . Retrieved 2 September 2010.
[3] "Agatsu: " (http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ wiki/ Agatsu?wiki_session=46179e50dcb1634cb7e70b62baf41440). Aikiweb. . Retrieved 2
September 2010.
[4] Aikido Journal: satsujinken (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=579)
[5] Aikido Journal: Katsujinken (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=370)
[6] Pranin, Stanley A. (1993). Aikido Masters Vol I. Tokyo, Japan: Aiki News. pp.1011, 167. ISBN4-900586-14-5.
[7] Ueshiba Morihei, Compiled by Stevens, J (1993). The Essence of Aikido. Japan: Kodansha. pp.16, 2930, 43, 45, 55, 82, 84, 89, 91.
ISBN4-7700-1727-8.
[8] Ueshiba Morihei, Compiled by Stevens, J (1993). The Essence of Aikido. Japan: Kodansha. pp.3994. ISBN4-7700-1727-8.
[9] http:/ / shoshin. over-blog. com/ article-yamabiko-no-michi-90247157. html
Tori 40

Tori
Tori

Tori, on right, executes a throw against uke, on left.

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: tori

Tori ( ) is a term used in Japanese martial arts to refer to the executor of a technique in partnered practice. The
term "tori" comes from the verb toru ( ), meaning "to take", "to pick up", or "to choose".
In judo and some other martial arts, tori is the person who completes the technique against the training partner,
called uke. Regardless of the situation, the principle is that "tori" is always the one who successfully completes a
technique. The terms "tori" and "uke" are not synonymous with attacker and defender, because the role is determined
by who completes a successful technique, not who initiates one.[1]
In aikido and related martial arts, tori executes a defensive technique against a designated attack initiated by uke.
Aikido has alternate terms describing the role of tori, depending on the particular style or situation, including
"thrower" ( nage) and "performing hand" ( shite).[2]

References
[1] The Judo Information Site at http:/ / judoinfo. com
[2] Shite can also refer to the principal character in a Japanese Noh play
Uke 41

Uke
Uke

Uke on the left, "receiving" a throw by executing a forward roll.

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: uke

In Japanese martial arts, the uke ( ) (IPA:[ke]) is the person who "receives" a technique.
The exact role of uke also known as a partner, varies between the different arts and often within the art itself
depending on the situation. For instance in aikido, judo kata, and bujinkan ninjutsu uke initiates an attack against his
partner, who then defends, whereas in competition judo, there is no designated uke.

Related terms
There are several terms used to describe the opposite of uke, again depending on the art or situation, they include
nage ( "thrower"), tori ( "grabber") or shite ( "doer").
The action of uke is called "taking ukemi ( )." Literally translated as "receiving body", it is the art of
knowing how to respond correctly to an attack and often incorporates skills to allow one to do so safely. These skills
can include moves similar to tumbling and are often used as a valid exercise in itself. In aikido and judo training for
instance, many classes begin with ukemi training as conditioning.

Forms
Zenpo kaiten ukemi ( ) / Mae mawari ukemi ( ) - a forward roll from the
leading foot's shoulder to the hip on the opposite side.
Mae ukemi ( ) / Zenp ukemi ( ) - a forward breakfall. This can be in the form of a hard
slapping breakfall or more of a forward roll like motion. There are subtleties in the different types of forward roll
but the principle is that when being thrown forwards the uke (person being thrown) is able to roll out of danger in
preference to sustaining an injury.
Kh ukemi ( ) / Ushiro ukemi ( ) - a backwards roll or fall.
Yoko ukemi ( ) / Sokuh ukemi ( ) - a sideways fall.
Tobi ukemi ( ) / Zenp hiyaku ukemi ( ) / Kuten ukemi ( ) - more
of a forward flip than a roll, a cross between yoko (landing) and mae ukemi (initiation), often used in response to
wrist throws. Tobu ( or ) is the Japanese verb for 'to jump' and 'to fly'.
Uke 42

Correct Ukemi will allow the Uke to suffer the amount of least damage possible from a fall. If done correctly, the
force of hitting the ground will be spread out along non-critical parts of the Uke's body. By properly doing Ukemi,
the Uke can roll out of danger and move into their next course of action without being damaged too much by hitting
the ground.

References
Aiki 43

Aiki
Aiki

Japanese name

Shinjitai:
Kyjitai:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: aiki

Korean name

Hangul:

Hanja:

Transliterations

- Revised hapki
Romanization:

- hapki
McCuneReischauer
Romanization:

Aiki is a Japanese martial arts principle or tactic in which the defender blends (without clashing) with the attacker,
then goes on to dominate the assailant through the strength of their application of internal dynamics or Ki energy to
effect techniques. Blending with an attacker's movements allows the Aiki practitioner to control the actions of the
attacker with minimal effort. One applies aiki by understanding the rhythm and intent of the attacker to find the
optimal position and timing to apply a counter-technique.
In Japanese Aiki is formed from two kanji:
- ai - joining
- ki - spirit
Aiki 44

Etymology
The kanji for "ai" is made of three radicals, "join", "one" and "mouth". Hence, "ai" symbolizes things coming
together, merging. Aiki should not be confused with "wa" which refers to harmony. The kanji for "ki" represents a
pot filled with steaming rice and a lid on it. Hence, "ki" symbolizes energy (in the body). (See the qi main article for
further information).
Thus aiki's meaning is to fit, join or combine energy. However, care must be taken about the absolute meanings of
words when discussing concepts derived from other cultures and expressed in different languages. This is
particularly true when the words we use today have been derived from symbols, in this case Chinese and Japanese
kanji, which represent ideas rather than literal translations of the components. Historical use of a term can influence
meanings and be passed down by those wishing to illustrate ideas with the best word or phrase available to them. In
this way, there may be a divergence of the meaning between arts or schools within the same art. The characters "ai"
and "ki" have translations to many different English words.
hapkido has branches off from the Aikido by Choi Yong-sool.[1] hapkido use the prefix "hapki-" which is similar to
the Japanese "aiki-" since Korean share the same Chinese ideograph.
The use of the term would be passed on orally, as such teachings were often a closely guarded secret.[2] In some
schools, concepts like aiki are described in logical, tangible, terms based on physics,[3] while in other definitions of
aiki tend to be vague and open-ended, or more concerned with spiritual aspects. The use of the term aiki can often be
ambiguous.

Aiki martial arts

Aiki lends its name to various Japanese
martial arts most notably aikido and its
parent art, Daito-ryu aiki-jujutsu. These arts
tend to use the principle of aiki as a core
element underpining the bulk of their
techniques. Aiki is an important principle in
several other arts such as Kito-ryu and
various forms of kenjutsu. It is found as a
concept in arts as diverse as karate[4] and
judo.[5] Aiki arts are generally classed as
soft martial arts. The aiki arts place great
emphasis on the use of qi energy.
Techniques accomplished with aiki are
subtle and require little mechanical force. An aikido kokyu nage throw

The term of aiki is also present in many

Korean martial arts where the word is referred to as hapki (), most notably hapkido and its softer equivalent
hankido.
Aiki 45

The concept of Aiki

Aiki is a complex concept, and three aspects of it are as follows:
1) Blending not clashing
Aiki typically describes an idea of oneness or blending in the midst of combat. In aikido it generally describes
the more elevated notion of blending rather than clashing. "Blending" is often described even within aikido as
"awase".[6] Many definitions for "aiki" seem to be based around "awase". Emphasis is upon joining with the
rhythm and intent of the opponent in order to find the optimal position and timing with which to apply force.
To blend with an attack, it is usually necessary to yield to incoming forces, so aiki is closely related to the
principle of ju. Aiki is about engaging an attack, not retreating from one.[7]
2) Leading the assailant
The aiki practitioner is able to lead the attack, and thus the attacker, into precarious positions. The influence
over an assailant grows as the assailant's balance deteriorates. Body movements (tai sabaki) used for this may
be large and obvious or small and subtle. Subtle weight shifting and the application of physical pressure to the
assailant enable one to lead an assailant, keep him static, or keep him unbalanced (kuzushi) in order to employ
the ones own technique. In the same manner, through deceptive movements, the aiki practitioner may negate a
defence response from the assailant or create a defence response from the assailant that puts him even further
into peril. There is a strong degree of intent, will or psychology[8] to this aspect of domination. Mind and body
are coordinated.
3) Use of internal strength - Ki energy
Kiai and aiki use the same kanji (transposed) and can be thought of as the inner and the outer aspect of the
same principle.[9] Kiai relates to the manifestation, emission or projection of ones own energy (internal
strength), while Aiki relates to the merging of one's energy with the energy emitted from an external source
(blending). Thus kiai is union with our own, internal energy while aiki is union with an attacker's energy. Kiai
consists of all parts of the body being unified and directed to one intent. Aiki, ultimately has to do with a very
good ability to manipulate kiai upon contact so that the practitioner blends his ki with the attackers ki
instantaneously. This use of ki will involve the use of kokyu power, i.e. breathing is coordinated with
movement.[10] Kokyu Ryoku is the natural power that can be produced when body and consciousness (mind)
are unified.[11] The term "kokyu" can also be used to describe a situation in which two opponent's are moving
with appropriate timing.

Thoughts on aiki
The oldest book to discuss aiki was the 1899 Budo Hiketsu-Aiki no Jutsu. On the subject of aiki it was written:

The most profound and mysterious art in the world is the art of aiki. This is the secret principle of all the martial arts in Japan. One who
masters it can be an unparalleled martial genius.
[12]

The Textbook of Jujutsu (Jujutsu Kyoju-sho Ryu no Maki) from 1913 wrote:

Aiki is an impassive state of mind without a blind side, slackness, evil intention, or fear. There is no difference between aiki and ki-ai;
however, if compared, when expressed dynamically aiki is called kiai, and when expressed statically, it is aiki.
[12]

Sokaku Takeda, the founder of Daito-ryu aikijujutsu defined aiki in the following way:

[12]

The secret of aiki is to overpower the opponent mentally at a glance and to win without fighting.

His son Tokimune Takeda had the following to say on the same:
Aiki 46

Aiki is to pull when you are pushed, and to push when you are pulled. It is the spirit of slowness and speed, of harmonizing your movement
with your opponent's ki. Its opposite, kiai, is to push to the limit, while aiki never resists.
The term aiki has been used since ancient times and is not unique to Daito-ryu. The ki in aiki is go no sen, meaning to respond to an attack.
... Daito-ryu is all go no sen you first evade your opponent's attack and then strike or control him. Likewise, Itto-ryu is primarily go no sen.
You attack because an opponent attacks you. This implies not cutting your opponent. This is called katsujinken (life-giving sword). Its
opposite is called setsuninken (death-dealing sword).
[13]

References
[1] Historical Interview Hapkido Grandmaster Choi, Yong Sul (http:/ / www. sheyashapkido. com/ ysc. php)
[2] Secret transmission (http:/ / vsa. vassar. edu/ ~aikido/ aikidohistory. htm)
[3] Aikiphysics (http:/ / www. aikidorepublic. com/ aikiphysics)
[4] Aiki in karate (http:/ / www. iainabernethy. com/ articles/ article_17. asp)
[5] Aiki in judo (http:/ / www. fortunecity. com/ olympia/ kickbox/ 709/ article2. htm)
[6] Blending (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=56)
[7] Engaging an attack (http:/ / www. senshincenter. com/ pages/ writs/ aikipers/ aiki. html)
[8] Psychology (http:/ / home. earthlink. net/ ~aiki1/ psypaper. html)
[9] Kiai vs aiki (http:/ / www. 8ung. at/ aikikai-wien/ eprinzip. htm)
[10] Kokyu power (http:/ / www. shindokanbooks. com/ samples/ Aikido Shugyo Page Samples. pdf)
[11] Kokyu ryoku (http:/ / www. chesteraikido. fsnet. co. uk/ Summer School/ docs/ grading advice. pdf)
[12] Draeger, Donn F. Modern Bujutsu & Budo: Martial arts And Ways Of Japan, Vol III. Weatherhill, Tokyo 1974, 1996.
[13] Pranin, Stanley. Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu; Conversations with Daito-ryu Masters. Interview with Tokimune Takeda from 1985 to 1987. Aiki
News Tokyo 1996.
Irimi 47

Irimi
Irimi
Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: irimi

In Japanese martial arts, Irimi ( ) is the act of entering straight into a technique, as opposed to the more
indirect entrance into technique called tenkan. In basic training, irimi usually looks like a step forward, straight or at
an angle but usually ending with the body facing the attacker, rather than in the direction of the step. To enter with
irimi, the defender needs to move in the very moment of the attack or even himself initiate it.

Aikido
Meaning: Entering[1] or putting in the body.[2]
Irimi (ee-ree-mee) is the second pillar of Aikido (Aikido techniques are structured around six main pillars).[3] Irimi
involves entering deeply around or behind an attack to defuse or neutralize the attack. The concept of irimi teaches
one to blend with or enter into an opponents attack to become one with the opponents movement and leaving the
opponent with nowhere to strike.[3] This movement is utilized during the moment of the opponents attack. To
complete the movement, one moves out of the opponent's line of attack to the opponents shikaku, or blind spot.
When executed properly, one can strike an opponent with great force, combining his attacking momentum and one's
forward movement.[1]
The entering principle is basic to most Aikido movements as the postures and movements in Aikido contain quite a
few oblique stances which are adapted from Sjutsu (spear fighting).[1]
In Aikido, there are numerous examples of techniques exhibiting the concepts of yin and yang.[4] Irimi and tenkan
are an example. Tenkan is the motion of turning (yin) and irimi is the motion of entering (yang).[4]
Irimi is one of two motions Aikido students perform in the role of nage.[4] Practicing irimi will help the Aikido
student develop Hara, balance, and groundedness.[4]

References
[1] Ueshiba, K. (1985). "Aikido", Japan Publications Trading, Tokyo.
[2] Shioda, G. (1977). "Dynamic Aikido", Kodansha International, Tokyo.
[3] Stevens, J. (1996). "The Shambhala Guide to Aikido", Shambhala Publications, Massachusetts.
[4] Reynosa, L. and Billingiere J. (1989). "A Beginners Guide to Aikido", R &B Publishing Company, Ventura, California.

External links
Excerpt from the book "Aikido" (http://www.fightingmaster.com/articles/distance/irimi.htm) by Kisshomaru
Ueshiba
Tenkan 48

Tenkan
Tenkan

Step diagram of technique

Technique Name

Rmaji Tenkan

Japanese

English convert / divert

Tenkan ( , lit. convert or divert) is the Japanese name of a movement practiced in several martial arts. It is a
180 degree pivot to one's rear, on the lead foot. That is, if the left foot is forward, the pivot is clockwise, and if the
right foot is forward, the pivot is counter-clockwise.

Judo
Tenkan is a technique used in judo.

Aikido
Tenkan is a very common technique in aikido. Strategically, tenkan is most often used to place nage back-to-back
with uke. A few techniques that commonly begin by executing tenkan include: shmen'uchi - kaitennage; katate-dori
- shihnage; and morote-dori - kokynage.
Some styles of aikido practice six basic ashi sabaki (stepping/footwork) techniques, of which tenkan is one.
Those six basic stepping techniques are:
Tsugi-ashi (shuffle step)
Ayumi-ashi (crossing step)
Kaiten (hip shift to avoid attack)
Tenshin (step and pivot to avoid attack)
Tenkan (180 degree pivot to avoid attack)
Ude-furi (spin step)
Atemi 49

Atemi
Atemi
Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: atemi

In Japanese martial arts, the term atemi ( ) designates blows to the body,[1] as opposed to twisting of joints,
strangleholds, holding techniques and throws. Atemi can be delivered by any part of the body to any part of the
opponents body. They can be percussive or use 'soft' power. Karate is a typical martial art focusing on percussive
atemi. The location of nerve and pressure points, such as might be used for certain acupressure methods, also often
informs the choice of targets for atemi (see kyusho).
Some strikes against vital parts of the body can kill or incapacitate the opponent: on the solar plexus, at the temple,
under the nose, in the eyes, genitals, or under the chin. Traditional Japanese martial arts (the ancestors of judo,
jujutsu and aikido) do not commonly practice atemi, since they were supposed to be used on the battlefield against
armoured opponents. However, there are certain exceptions.
Atemi can be complete techniques in and of themselves, but are also often used to briefly break an opponent's
balance (see kuzushi) or resolve. This is the predominant usage of atemi in aikido.[2] A painful but non-fatal blow to
an area such as the eyes, face, or some vulnerable part of the abdomen can open the way for a more damaging
technique, such as a throw or joint lock. Even if the blow does not land, the opponent can be distracted, and may
instinctively contort their body (e.g., jerking their head back from a face strike) in such a way that they lose their
balance.
The development of atemi techniques arises from the evolution of the Japanese martial arts, in particular jujutsu.
Early styles of jujutsu from Sengoku-era Japan were created as a means of unarmed combat for a samurai who had
lost his weapons on the battlefield. The purpose of jujutsu was to disarm the opponent and use their own weapon
against them. As such, strikes to the body were limited as the intended victim would have been wearing extensive
body armour. However, in later styles of jujutsu from Edo-period Japan empty-handed strikes to the body became
more common as full-scale military engagement began to decline. This meant that the jujutsu practitioner's opponent
would not have been wearing armour and the vital points that form the crux of atemi-waza were more exposed. Thus
atemi began to play a pivotal role in unarmed killing and restraining techniques, which later gave birth to martial arts
such as Atemi Ju-Jitsu.

References
[1] Atemi-Jujitsu (http:/ / www. atemi-jujitsu. com/ ?page=pages/ faq_answers/ 2. htm)
[2] The Use of Striking in Aikido (http:/ / www. aikieast. com/ atemi. htm)
Tai sabaki 50

Tai sabaki
Tai sabaki ( ) is a term from
Japanese martial arts and which relates to
'whole body movement', or repositioning. It
can be translated as body-management. It is
a term used widely in kendo, jujutsu, aikido,
judo, karate and ninjutsu. Tai sabaki is
usually used to avoid an attack, such that the
receiver of the attack ends up in an
advantageous position and it is often
wrongly referred to as evasion.

An example of tai sabaki is 'moving off the

line' of attack using irimi and tenkan
movements rather than to 'move against' the
attack. This implies the use of harmony
rather than physical strength. See hard and
soft (martial arts)

Tai sabaki is related to ashi sabaki

(footwork) and te sabaki (handwork).

Step diagram for a 180 degree taisabaki

External links
How to Do Tai Sabaki [1]
Introduction to Tai sabaki [2]
Throwing Technique Structural Analysis (judo) [3]
Tai sabaki Dojo in Valencia - Spain [4]
(What is Sabaki - Ashihara Karate) [5]

References
[1] http:/ / www. wikihow. com/ Do-Tai-Sabaki-(martial-Arts-Body-Shifting)
[2] http:/ / bama. ua. edu/ ~usbudo/ taisabk1. htm
[3] http:/ / www. judoinfo. com/ research25. htm
[4] http:/ / www. sabaki-karate. es
[5] http:/ / www. ashiharakarate. org/ html/ what_is_sabaki_. html
Maai 51

Maai
Maai

Brandon Harada (Sho-Tokyo Dojo) in transition from Itto-ma to Chikama against Eiga Naoki in chdan-no-kamae (on the right).
Demonstration at Mori Hai Memorial Tournament, Jan 29, 2006, Norwalk, California.

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: maai

Maai ( ), translating simply to "interval", is a Japanese martial arts term referring to the space between two
opponents in combat; formally, the "engagement distance". It is a complex concept, incorporating not just the
distance between opponents, but also the time it will take to cross the distance, angle and rhythm of attack. It is
specifically the exact position from which one opponent can strike the other, after factoring in the above elements.
For example, a faster opponent's maai is farther away than a slower opponent. It is ideal for one opponent to
maintain maai while preventing the other from doing so,[1] meaning that they can strike before the opponent can
(rather than both striking simultaneously, or being struck without being able to strike back).
In kendo, maai has a more specific interpretation. In physical terms pertains to the distance maintained between two
opponents. When Maai is interpreted as the actual distance between opponents, there are 3 types:[2][3]
1. Tma (T-ma) - (long distance);
2. Issoku itt-no-maai (Itto-ma) - (one-foot-one-sword distance) also called chma - (middle distance);
3. Chikama - (short distance).
Itto-ma is the distance equaling one step to make one strike. It measures about two metres between opponents; from
which either need advance only one step in order to strike the other. Normally, most techniques are initiated at this
distance. Chika-ma is the distance narrower than Itto-ma (short/close distance), and To-ma is greater (long/far
distance). At To-ma, there is a small margin of time to allow for a reaction to be made against an opponent's attack.
But at Issoku itto-no-ma there exists almost no margin at all, so that at this distance one's attention has to remain
constantly alert and unbroken.
In terms of time, Maai pertains to the momentary lapses of awareness that are manifested in the opponent's mind.
Extended further, it also embraces the concept of Kyo-jitsu (emptiness-fullness of Ki). These momentary lapses of
mind, and Kyo-jitsu, we may call the 'kokoro-no-maai' (mental interval). The implication of kokoro-no-maai is that
although the physical distance between opponents may be mutually advantageous, the mental interval possessed by
individuals will determine who will have the decisive advantage.[4]
Maai 52

References
[1] Jones, Todd D. "Angular Attack Theory: An Aikido Perspective" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=634). Aikido
Journal. .
[2] KENDO, The Definitive Guide by Hiroshi Ozawa. Kodansha Int. 1991, pp.38-41
[3] Kendo, Elements, Rules, and Philosophy by Jinichi Tokeshi, University of Hawai'i Press 2003, p.97
[4] The Kendo Reader by Noma Hisashi, Kyoshi (1910-1939) transl. by Norges Kendforbund 2003

External links
The Kendo Reader (http://www.osi.uio.no/kendo/pdf/Noma.pdf) (PDF)
Randori 53

Randori
Randori

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: randori

Randori ( ) is a term used in Japanese martial arts to describe free-style practice. The term literally means
"chaos taking" or "grasping freedom," implying a freedom from the structured practice of kata. Randori may be
contrasted with kata, as two potentially complementary types of training.
The exact meaning of randori depends on the martial art it is used in. In judo, jujitsu and Shodokan Aikido, among
others, it most often refers to one-on-one sparring where partners attempt to resist and counter each other's
techniques. In other styles of aikido, in particular Aikikai, it refers to a form of practice in which a designated
aikidoka defends against multiple attackers in quick succession without knowing how they will attack or in what
order.

In Japan
The term is used only by Aikikai dojo outside Japan. In Japan, this form of practice is called taninzu-gake (
), which literally means multiple attackers.

In Judo
The term is described by Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, in a speech at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games:
"Randori, meaning "free exercise", is practiced under conditions of actual contest. It includes throwing, choking,
holding the opponent down, and bending or twisting his arms or legs. The two combatants may use whatever
methods they like provided they do not hurt each other and obey the rules of Judo concerning etiquette, which are
essential to its proper working." [1]
Randori 54

In Tenshin Aikido
In Steven Seagal's Tenshin Aikido Federation (affiliated with the Aikikai), their randori is different from Aikikai.
The attackers can do anything to the defender (e.g. Punch, Grab, Kick etc.)

In Kendo
In kendo, jigeiko means "friendly" free combat as in competition, but not counting the points.

In Karate
Although in karate the word kumite is usually reserved for sparring, some schools also employ the term randori with
regard to "mock-combat" in which both karateka move very fast, parrying and attempting acts of extreme violence
with all four limbs (including knees, elbows, etc.) yet only ever making the slightest contact. Total control of the
body is necessary and therefore only the senior grades can typically practice randori. In these schools, the distinction
between randori and kumite is that in randori, the action is uninterrupted when a successful technique is applied.

In ninjutsu
Randori is also practiced in Bujinkan ninjutsu and usually represented to the practitioner when he reaches the
"Shodan" level. In ninjutsu, randori puts the practitioner in a position where he is armed/unarmed and being attacked
by multiple attackers.

External links
Judo Information Site [2]
YouTube Randori In Tenshin Aikido [3]

References
[1] Original text of this speech available at The Judo Information Site at http:/ / judoinfo. com/ kano1. htm
[2] http:/ / judoinfo. com
[3] http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=fH6HtkySiCQ
Zanshin 55

Zanshin
Zanshin (Japanese: ) is a term used in the Japanese martial arts. It refers to a state of awareness of relaxed
alertness. The literal translation of zanshin is "remaining mind".[1][2]
In several martial arts, zanshin refers more narrowly to the body's posture after a technique is executed.[1][2][3][4]

In various martial arts

In kyd, zanshin means the body posture after the loosing of an arrow; the posture is intended to reflect the higher
meaning of zanshin, which is a mental aspect maintained before, during, and after an action.[1][5]
In karate, zanshin is the state of total awareness.[6] It means being aware of one's surroundings and enemies, while
being prepared to react.
In the context of kend, zanshin is the continued state of spirit, mental alertness and physical readiness to meet the
situation (such as an opposing attack) that must be maintained when one returns to kamae after attacking. It is one of
the essential elements that define a good attack.[4]
During the practice of aikid, the usual method of practicing zanshin is to focus on the just-thrown uke, or opponent,
while holding kamae and maintaining awareness in case there are additional attacks or attackers.[7][8] In Iwama Style
training, zanshin is practiced as general awareness of one's surroundings, of which uke is just a small part.
Within the context of ninjutsu, especially inside Bujinkan, zanshin is a collective simulated combat in total or partial
darkness, that allows one to become more acquainted to fighting without the aid of light.

References
[1] "One arrow, one life: Zen, archery, enlightenment" by Kenneth Kushner (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=P2_Exr9DmMIC&
pg=PA73& dq=zanshin& hl=en& ei=inI_TabwM8OB8gb7j_XABA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=11&
ved=0CFoQ6AEwCg#v=onepage& q=zanshin& f=false); Tuttle Publishing, 2000, page 73
[2] "The complete idiot's guide to karate" by Randall G. Hassell, Edmond Otis (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=4ZaQjrzkwsQC&
pg=PT62& dq=zanshin& hl=en& ei=znM_TaCIHsqs8AbjrbDaBA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=3&
ved=0CC4Q6AEwAjgK#v=onepage& q=zanshin& f=false); Penguin, 2000, p. 26-27
[3] "The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do" by Shshin Nagamine (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=0pfop_Cgb0gC& pg=PA100&
dq=zanshin& hl=en& ei=inI_TabwM8OB8gb7j_XABA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=10&
ved=0CFUQ6AEwCQ#v=onepage& q=zanshin& f=false); Tuttle Publishing, 1998, page 100
[4] "Complete Kendo" by John J. Donohue (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=-_Fyr_GYdkEC& pg=PA89& dq=zanshin& hl=en&
ei=znM_TaCIHsqs8AbjrbDaBA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=5& ved=0CDkQ6AEwBDgK#v=onepage& q=zanshin&
f=false); Tuttle Publishing, 1999, page 89
[5] "Kyudo: the essence and practice of Japanese archery" by Hideharu Onuma, Dan DeProspero, Jackie DeProspero (http:/ / books. google. com/
books?id=u2DKesPhsxgC& pg=PA85& dq=zanshin& hl=en& ei=znM_TaCIHsqs8AbjrbDaBA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result&
resnum=8& ved=0CEYQ6AEwBzgK#v=onepage& q=zanshin& f=false); Kodansha International, 1993, p. 84-85
[6] "Karate" by Kevin Healy (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=22CKm1jDOowC& pg=PA21& dq=zanshin& hl=en&
ei=s34_TbKRJYiq8AaP9pSYBA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=3& ved=0CC0Q6AEwAjgU#v=onepage& q=zanshin&
f=false); Connections Book Publishing, 2002, page 21
[7] "Advanced Aikido" by Phong Thong Dang, Lynn Seiser (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=il1rCyCzmTcC& pg=PA64& dq=zanshin&
hl=en& ei=s34_TbKRJYiq8AaP9pSYBA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=4& ved=0CDIQ6AEwAzgU#v=onepage&
q=zanshin& f=false); Tuttle Publishing, 2006, page 64
[8] "Dynamic Aikido" by Gz Shioda (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=4dcQwX7V2dgC& pg=PA107& dq=zanshin& hl=en&
ei=yX8_TcSYJ8G78gbz7bSoBA& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=4& ved=0CDAQ6AEwAzgo#v=onepage& q=zanshin&
f=false); Kodansha International, 1977, page 107
Kuzushi 56

Kuzushi
Kuzushi ( : ) is a Japanese term for unbalancing an opponent in the martial arts.
The noun comes from the intransitive verb, kuzusu, meaning to level, pull down, or demolish. As such, it is refers to
not just an unbalancing, but the process of getting an opponent into a position where his stability, and hence ability
to regain uncompromised balance, is destroyed.
In judo, it is considered an essential principle and the first of three stages to a successful throwing technique:
kuzushi, tsukuri (fitting or entering) and kake (execution).
Kuzushi is important to many styles of Japanese martial arts, especially those derived from, or influenced by, Ju
Jutsu training methods. Judo, Ninjutsu, Aikido and Wad-ry karate are examples of arts that can be found in the
latter category. [1]
The methods of effecting kuzushi depend on maai (combative distance) and other circumstances. It can be achieved
using tai sabaki (body positioning and weak lines), taking advantage of the opponents actions (push when pulled,
pull when pushed), atemi (strikes), or a combination of all three.
There are three primary ways of applying kuzushi in judo:
direct action (e.g. pulling or pushing while entering for a throw);
inducing opponent's action (e.g. a feint or combination attack);
direct action by opponent (e.g. a counter throw).

References
[1] Ju Jitsu Classical and Modern, Eddie Ferrie, Page 9

Additional reading
Kano, Jigoro (1994) Kodokan Judo (http://www.amazon.com/dp/4770017995) is the standard reference on
judo. ISBN 4-7700-1799-5.
Ohlenkamp, Neil (2006) Judo Unleashed (http://judounleashed.com) another basic reference on judo. ISBN
0-07-147534-6.

External links
kuzushi (http://www.judoinfo.com/kuzushi1.htm)
kuzushi: beginning and advanced concepts (http://www.bestjudo.com/blog/2006/06/19/
kuzushi-beginning-and-advanced-concepts/)
Kumite Gata and the Essence of Wado-ryu. Part III: The Principle of Kuzushi (http://www.zenshindojo.fi/
kuzushi.pdf)
Qi 57

Qi
Qi (Ch'i)

Chinese name

Traditional Chinese
Simplified Chinese

Transcriptions
Mandarin
- Hanyu Pinyin q
- WadeGiles ch'i4
Min
- Hokkien POJ kh
Cantonese (Yue)
- Jyutping hei3
Middle Chinese
- Middle Chinese Kjj

Vietnamese name

Quc ng kh

Thai name

Thai

RTGS Chi

Korean name

Hangul

Hanja

Transcriptions
- Revised gi
Romanization
- McCune- ki
Reischauer

Japanese name

Hiragana
Kyjitai
Shinjitai
Qi 58

Transcriptions
- Revised Hepburn ki

In traditional Chinese culture, q (also chi or ch'i) is an active principle forming part of any living thing.[1][2][3] Qi is
frequently translated as "life energy", "life force", or "energy flow". Qi is the central underlying principle in
traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts. The literal translation of "qi" is "breath", "air", or "gas".
Concepts similar to qi can be found in many cultures, for example, prana in Vedantic philosophy, mana in Hawaiian
culture, lng in Tibetan Buddhism, and Vital energy in Western philosophy. Some elements of qi can be understood
in the term energy when used by writers and practitioners of various esoteric forms of spirituality and alternative
medicine. Elements of the qi concept can also be found in Western popular culture, for example "The Force" in Star
Wars.[4] Notions in the West of energeia, lan vital, or "vitalism" are purported to be similar.[5]

Etymology
The etymological explanation for the form of the qi logogram (or chi) in the traditional form is "steam () rising
from rice () as it cooks". The earliest way of writing qi consisted of 3 wavy lines, used to represent one's breath
seen on a cold day. A later version, , identical to the present-day simplified character, is a stylized version of those
same 3 lines. For some reason, early writers of Chinese found it desirable to substitute for a cognate character
that originally meant to feed other people in a social context such as providing food for guests. Appropriately, that
character combined the 3-line qi character with the character for rice. So plus formed , and that is the
Traditional Chinese character still used today (the oracle bone character, the seal script character and the modern
"school standard" or Ki sh characters in the box at the right show 3 stages of the evolution of this character).[6]

Definition
References to concepts analogous to the qi taken to be the life-process or flow of energy that sustains living beings
are found in many belief systems, especially in Asia. Philosophical conceptions of qi from the earliest records of
Chinese philosophy (5th century BCE) correspond to Western notions of humours and the ancient Hindu yogic
concept of prana ("life force" in Sanskrit). The earliest description of "force" in the current sense of vital energy is
found in the Vedas of ancient India (circa 15001000 BCE),[7] and from the writings of the Chinese philosopher
Mencius (4th century BCE). Historically, the Huangdi Neijing/"The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine" (circa
2nd century BCE) is credited with first establishing the pathways through which qi circulates in the human
body.[8][9]

Within the framework of Chinese thought, no notion may attain such a degree of abstraction from empirical data as to correspond perfectly to
one of our modern universal concepts. Nevertheless, the term qi comes as close as possible to constituting a generic designation equivalent to
our word "energy". When Chinese thinkers are unwilling or unable to fix the quality of an energetic phenomenon, the character qi ()
inevitably flows from their brushes.
[10]
Manfred Porkert
Qi 59

The ancient Chinese described it as "life force". They believed qi permeated

everything and linked their surroundings together. They likened it to the flow of
energy around and through the body, forming a cohesive and functioning unit. By
understanding its rhythm and flow they believed they could guide exercises and
treatments to provide stability and longevity.
Although the concept of qi has been important within many Chinese philosophies,
over the centuries the descriptions of qi have varied and have sometimes been in
conflict. Until China came into contact with Western scientific and philosophical
Traditional Chinese character q,
also used in Korean hanja. In ideas, they had not categorized all things in terms of matter and energy. Qi and li
Japanese kanji, this character (: "pattern") were 'fundamental' categories similar to matter and energy.
was used until 1946, when it was
changed to .
Fairly early on, some Chinese thinkers began to believe that there were different
fractions of qi and that the coarsest and heaviest fractions of qi formed solids, lighter
fractions formed liquids, and the most ethereal fractions were the "lifebreath" that animates living beings.[11]
Yun q is a notion of innate or pre-natal qi to distinguish it from acquired qi that a person may develop over the
course of their lifetime.

Pronunciation
Other spellings include in simplified Chinese: wikt:; traditional Chinese: ; Mandarin Pinyin: q; WadeGiles:
ch'i; Jyutping: hei, Qi is pronounced /ti/ in English and Mandarin pronunciation:[t] in Standard Chinese; Korean: gi;
Japanese: ki; Vietnamese: kh, pronounced[x]) The approximate English pronunciation of qi, similar to "chee" in
cheese, should also be distinguished from the pronunciation of the Greek letter chi, which has a hard c sound, like
"c" in car, and a long i, similar to other Greek letters phi, psi, xi.

Philosophical roots
The earliest texts that speak of qi give some indications of how the
concept developed. The philosopher Mo Di used the word qi to refer to
noxious vapors that would in due time arise from a corpse were it not
buried at a sufficient depth.[12] He reported that early civilized humans
learned how to live in houses to protect their qi from the moisture that
had troubled them when they lived in caves.[13] He also associated
maintaining one's qi with providing oneself adequate nutrition.[14] In
regard to another kind of qi, he recorded how some people performed a
kind of prognostication by observing the qi (clouds) in the sky.[15]

In the Analects of Confucius, compiled from the notes of his students

sometime after his death in 479 B.C., qi could mean "breath",[16] and
combining it with the Chinese word for blood (making , xue-qi, Hand-written calligraphic qi.

blood and breath), the concept could be used to account for

motivational characteristics.

The [morally] noble man guards himself against 3 things. When he is young, his xue-qi has not yet stabilized, so he guards himself against

sexual passion. When he reaches his prime, his xue-qi is not easily subdued, so he guards himself against combativeness. When he reaches old
age, his xue-qi is already depleted, so he guards himself against acquisitiveness.

Confucius, Analects, 16:7

Qi 60

Mencius described a kind of qi that might be characterized as an individual's vital energies. This qi was necessary to
activity, and it could be controlled by a well-integrated willpower.[17] When properly nurtured, this qi was said to be
capable of extending beyond the human body to reach throughout the universe.[17] It could also be augmented by
means of careful exercise of one's moral capacities.[17] On the other hand, the qi of an individual could be degraded
by adverse external forces that succeed in operating on that individual.[18]
Not only human beings and animals were believed to have qi. Zhuangzi indicated that wind is the qi of the Earth.[19]
Moreover, cosmic yin and yang "are the greatest of qi."[20] He described qi as "issuing forth" and creating profound
effects.[21] He said "Human beings are born [because of] the accumulation of qi. When it accumulates there is life.
When it dissipates there is death... There is one qi that connects and pervades everything in the world."[22]
Another passage traces life to intercourse between Heaven and Earth: "The highest Yin is the most restrained. The
highest Yang is the most exuberant. The restrained comes forth from Heaven. The exuberant issues forth from Earth.
The two intertwine and penetrate forming a harmony, and [as a result] things are born."[23]
"The Guanzi essay Neiye (Inward training) is the oldest received writing on the subject of the cultivation of
vapor [qi] and meditation techniques. The essay was probably composed at the Jixia Academy in Qi in the late
fourth century B.C."[24]
Xun Zi, another Confucian scholar of the Jixia Academy, followed in later years. At 9:69/127, Xun Zi says, "Fire
and water have qi but do not have life. Grasses and trees have life but do not have perceptivity. Fowl and beasts have
perceptivity but do not have yi (sense of right and wrong, duty, justice). Men have qi, life, perceptivity, and yi."
Chinese people at such an early time had no concept of radiant energy, but they were aware that one can be heated
by a campfire from a distance away from the fire. They accounted for this phenomenon by claiming "qi" radiated
from fire. At 18:62/122, he also uses "qi" to refer to the vital forces of the body that decline with advanced age.
Among the animals, the gibbon and the crane were considered experts at inhaling the qi. The Confucian scholar
Dong Zhongshu (ca. 150 BC) wrote in Luxuriant Dew of the Spring and Autumn Annals:[25] "The gibbon resembles
a macaque, but he is larger, and his color is black. His forearms being long, he lives eight hundred years, because he
is expert in controlling his breathing." ("
")
Later, the syncretic text assembled under the direction of Liu An, the Huai Nan Zi, or "Masters of Huainan", has a
passage that presages most of what is given greater detail by the Neo-Confucians:
Heaven (seen here as the ultimate source of all being) falls (duo , i.e., descends into proto-immanence) as
the formless. Fleeting, fluttering, penetrating, amorphous it is, and so it is called the Supreme Luminary. The
dao begins in the Void Brightening. The Void Brightening produces the universe (yu-zhou). The universe
produces qi. Qi has bounds. The clear, yang [qi] was ethereal and so formed heaven. The heavy, turbid [qi]
was congealed and impeded and so formed earth. The conjunction of the clear, yang [qi] was fluid and easy.
The conjunction of the heavy, turbid [qi] was strained and difficult. So heaven was formed first and earth was
made fast later. The pervading essence (xi-jing) of heaven and earth becomes yin and yang. The concentrated
(zhuan) essences of yin and yang become the four seasons. The dispersed (san) essences of the four seasons
become the myriad creatures. The hot qi of yang in accumulating produces fire. The essence (jing) of the
fire-qi becomes the sun. The cold qi of yin in accumulating produces water. The essence of the water-qi
becomes the moon. The essences produced by coitus (yin) of the sun and moon become the stars and celestial
markpoints (chen, planets).
Huai-nan-zi,3:1a/19
Qi 61

Role in traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) asserts that the body has natural patterns of qi that circulate in channels called
meridians.[26] In TCM, symptoms of various illnesses are believed to be the product of disrupted, blocked, or
unbalanced qi movement through the body's meridians, as well as deficiencies or imbalances of qi in the Zang Fu
organs.[27] Traditional Chinese medicine often seeks to relieve these imbalances by adjusting the circulation of qi
using a variety of techniques including herbology, food therapy, physical training regimens (qigong, t'ai chi ch'uan,
and other martial arts training),[28] moxibustion, tui na, and acupuncture.[29]

Qi field
A qi field (chu-chong) refers to the cultivation of an energy field by a group, typically for healing or other
benevolent purposes. A qi field is believed to be produced by visualization and affirmation, and is an important
component of Wisdom Healing Qigong (Zhineng Qigong), founded by Grandmaster Ming Pang.[30] [31] [32]

Scientific investigation
There have been a number of studies of qi, especially in the sense used by traditional Chinese medicine and
acupuncture. These studies have often been problematic and hard to compare to each other due to lack of common
nomenclature.[33] Some studies claim to have been able to measure qi, or the effects of manipulating qi (such as
through acupuncture), but the proposed existence of qi has also been questioned within the scientific community.
A United States National Institutes of Health consensus statement on acupuncture in 1997 noted that concepts such
as qi "are difficult to reconcile with contemporary biomedical information."[34] In 2007 "Network", a newsletter
published by the MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas to discuss "topics of interest to cancer
patients", published an article covering the concepts where qi is believed to be effective and research into possible
benefits for cancer patients.[35] A review of clinical trials investigating the use of internal qigong for pain
management found no convincing evidence that it was effective.[36]

Practices involving qi

Feng shui
The traditional Chinese art of geomancy, the placement and arrangement of space called feng shui, is based on
calculating the balance of qi, interactions between the 5 elements, yin and yang and other factors. The retention or
dissipation of qi is believed to affect the health, wealth, energy level, luck and many other aspects of the occupants
of the space. Attributes of each item in a space affect the flow of qi by slowing it down, redirecting it or accelerating
it, which is said to influence the energy level of the occupants.
One use for a luopan is to detect the flow of qi.[37] The quality of qi may rise and fall over time, feng shui with a
compass might be considered a form of divination that assesses the quality of the local environment.

Qigong
Qgng ( or ) is a practice involving coordinated breathing, movement, and awareness, traditionally
viewed as a practice to cultivate and balance qi. With roots in traditional Chinese medicine, philosophy, and martial
arts, qigong is now practiced worldwide for exercise, healing, meditation, and training for martial arts. Typically a
qigong practice involves rhythmic breathing coordinated with slow stylized movement, a calm mindful state, and
visualization of guiding qi.[38][39][40]
Qi 62

Martial arts
Qi is a didactic concept in many Chinese, Korean and Japanese martial arts. Martial qigong is a feature of both
internal and external training systems in China[41] and other East Asian cultures.[42] The most notable of the
qi-focused "internal" force (jin) martial arts are Baguazhang, Xing Yi Quan, T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Snake Kung Fu,
Southern Dragon Kung Fu, Aikido, Aikijujutsu, Kyd, Hapkido, jian and katana swordplay, Luohan Quan, Shaolin
Kung Fu, Liu He Ba Fa, Buddhist Style, and some forms of Karate, Tae Kwon Do and Silat.
Demonstrations of qi or ki are popular in some martial arts and may include the immovable body, the unraisable
body, the unbendable arm and other feats of power. All, or some, of these feats can alternatively be explained using
biomechanics and physics.[43][44]

Acupuncture and moxibustion

Acupuncture is a part of Traditional Chinese medicine that involves insertion of needles into superficial structures of
the body (skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscles) at acupuncture points to balance the flow of qi. Acupuncture is often
accompanied by moxibustion, a treatment that involves burning mugwort on or near the skin at an acupuncture point.

References
[1] DENG Yu et alRation of Qi with Modern Essential on Traditional Chinese Medicine Qi: Qi Set, Qi Element, JOURNAL OF
MATHEMATICAL MEDICINE (Chinese), 2003, 16(4)
[2] Ho, Peng Yoke (Oct 2000). Li, Qi, and Shu: An Introduction to Science and Civilization in China. Dover Publications. ISBN0-486-41445-0.
[3] Frantzis, Bruce Kumar (2008). The Chi Revolution: Harnessing the Healing Power of Your Life Force. Blue Snake Books.
ISBN1-58394-193-2.
[4] Porter, John A. (2003). The Tao of Star Wars. Humanics Trade Group. ISBN978-0-89334-385-9.
[5] *Sachs, Joe (2005), "Aristotle: Motion and its Place in Nature" (http:/ / www. iep. utm. edu/ aris-mot/ ), Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy,
[6] See p. 804f of Gao Shufan's "Xing, Yin, Yi Zonghe Da Zidian", Zhong Zheng Shuju, Taipei, 1984
[7] Avari, Burjor (2007), India: The Ancient Past, London: Routledge
[8] DENG Yu, ZHU Shuanli, Deng Hai, Generalized Quanta Wave with Qi on Traditional Chinese Medecine, JOURNAL OF
MATHEMATICAL MEDICINE, 2002, 15(4)
[9] Ni Maoshing, (1995), The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine, Shambhala Publications, Boston MA
[10] Porkert, Manfred (1974). The Theoretical Foundations of Chinese Medicine: Systems of Correspondence. MIT Press. ISBN0-262-16058-7.
OCLC123145357.
[11] Definitions and brief historical notes on such concepts can be found in Wei Zhengtong's "Zhong Guo Zhexue Cidian", Da Lin Publishing
Company, Taipei, 1977.
[12] Mo Zi, chapter 25, 84/86ths of the way through
[13] Mo Zi, 21:17/19
[14] Mo Zi, 21:5/19 and 6:22/40
[15] Mo Zi, 68:7/23 and 70:98/139
[16] Analects, 10:3
[17] Mencius, 2A:2
[18] Mencius, 6A:8
[19] Zhuang Zi, 2:4/96
[20] Zhuang Zi, 25:67/82
[21] Zhuang Zi, 23:5/79
[22] Zhuang Zi, 22:11/84
[23] Zhuang Zi, 21:7/70
[24] Harper, Donald; Michael Loewe and Edward L. Shaughnessy (1999/2007). The Cambridge History of Ancient China: From the Origins of
Civilization to 221 BC. (http:/ / books. google. com/ ?id=cHA7Ey0-pbEC& dq=cambridge+ + history+ of+ ancient+ china&
printsec=frontcover& q=). Cambridge, U.K.: Cambridge University Press. pp.880. ISBN978-0-521-47030-8. .
[25] Robert van Gulik, The gibbon in China. An essay in Chinese animal lore. E.J.Brill, Leiden, Holland. (1967). Page 38
[26] Denis Lawson-Wood and Joyce Lawson-Wood, Acupuncture Handbook, Health Science Press, 1964, pp. 4, 133.
[27] Lawson-Wood, p. 4 and throughout the book.
[28] Wu, Kung-tsao (1980, 2006). Wu Family T'ai Chi Ch'uan ( ). Chien-chuan Tai-chi Chuan Association.
ISBN0-9780499-0-X.
[29] Lawson-Wood, p. 78f.
[30] Gu, Mingtong (2011). Wisdom Healing (Zhineng) Qigong. Petaluma, CA: The Chi Center. pp.61-80. ISBN978-0-9835043-0-6.
Qi 63

[31] Gu, Mingtong (2009). An Introduction to Wisdom Healing Qigong. Petaluma, CA: The Chi Center. pp.30, 46-47.
[32] Hin, Oou Kean (2010). . Zhineng Qigong: The science, theory and practice. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
ISBN978-1453867600.
[33] White Peter, Golianu Brenda, Zaslawski Chris, Seung-HoonChoi (2006). "Standardization of Nomenclature in Acupuncture Research
(SoNAR)" (http:/ / ecam. oxfordjournals. org/ cgi/ content/ full/ 4/ 2/ 267). Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 4 (2):
267270. doi:10.1093/ecam/nel095. .
[34] "Acupuncture: National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement" (http:/ / consensus. nih. gov/ 1997/
1997Acupuncture107html. htm). National Institutes of Health. 3- 5November 1997. . Retrieved 2007-01-15.
[35] Energy Medicines Will East Meet West (http:/ / www. mdanderson. org/ publications/ network/ issues/ 2007-fall/
network-fall-2007-energy-medicines-will-east-meet-west-. html)
[36] (http:/ / onlinelibrary. wiley. com/ o/ cochrane/ cldare/ articles/ DARE-12009108793/ frame. html) Lee MS, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Internal
qigong for pain conditions: a systematic review. Journal of Pain.2009;10(11):1121-1127
[37] Field, Stephen L. (1998). Qimancy: The Art and Science of Fengshui. (http:/ / www. fengshuigate. com/ qimancy. html)
[38] Cohen, K. S. (1999). The Way of Qigong: The Art and Science of Chinese Energy Healing. Random House of Canada. ISBN0-345-42109-4.
[39] Liang, Shou-Yu; Wen-Ching Wu, Denise Breiter-Wu (1997). Qigong Empowerment: A Guide to Medical, Taoist, Buddhist, and Wushu
Energy Cultivation. Way of the Dragon Pub. ISBN1-889659-02-9.
[40] Yang, Jwing-Ming (1998). Qigong for health and martial arts: exercises and meditation. YMAA Publication Center. ISBN1-886969-57-4.
[41] Wile, Douglas (1995). Lost T'ai-chi Classics from the Late Ch'ing Dynasty (Chinese Philosophy and Culture). State University of New York
Press. ISBN978-0-7914-2654-8. OCLC34546989.
[42] Bishop, Mark (1989). Okinawan Karate: Teachers, Styles and Secret Techniques. A&C Black, London. ISBN0-7136-5666-2.
OCLC19262983.
[43] Daniel A. James, "Unraisable body: The physics of martial arts", Sports Health, Autumn 2004, Sports Medicine Australia, Canberra
[44] Moore, John. "What is Chi?" (http:/ / mainemartialarts. com/ martial-arts-philosophy/ what-is-chi/ ). Maine Martial Arts. Kongo Tatsu Kai. .
Retrieved 13 June 2011.

Further reading
Wright, Thomas; Eisenberg, David (1995). Encounters with Qi: Exploring Chinese medicine. New York: Norton
hi. ISBN0-393-31213-5. OCLC32998368.
Porkert, Manfred (1974). The theoretical foundations of Chinese medicine: Systems of correspondence.
Cambridge, Mass: MIT Press. ISBN0-262-16058-7. OCLC123145357.
Powers, John. (1995). Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism. Ithaca, NY: Snow Lion Publications. pp.591.
ISBN1-55939-282-7.

External links
Article by Bing YeYoung "A Philosophical and Cultural Interpretation of Qi" (http://www.literati-tradition.
com/qi_breath.html)
The Skeptics Dictionary (http://www.skepdic.com/chi.html)
AikiPhysics (http://www.aikidorepublic.com/aikiphysics/) explores Ki development tests in Aikido using
Physics
Dojo 64

Dojo
Dojo

A kendo dj.

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: dj

- Kunrei-shiki: dzy

A dojo ( dj) is a Japanese term which literally means "place of the way". Initially, djs were adjunct to
temples. The term can refer to a formal training place for any of the Japanese do arts but typically it is considered the
formal gathering place for students of any Japanese martial arts style such as karate, judo, or samurai,[1] to conduct
training, examinations and other related encounters.
The concept of a dj as a martial arts training place is a Western concept; in Japan, any physical training facility,
including professional wrestling schools, may be called dj because of its close martial arts roots.

Martial arts dj
A proper Japanese martial arts dj is considered special and is well
cared for by its users. Shoes are not worn in a dj. In many styles it is
traditional to conduct a ritual cleaning (sji) of the dj at the
beginning and/or end of each training session. Besides the obvious
hygienic benefits of regular cleaning it also serves to reinforce the fact
that dj are supposed to be supported and managed by the student
body, not the school's instructional staff. This attitude has become lost
in many modern dj that are founded and run by a small group of
Karatekas hone their skills at the dojo people or instructors. In fact, it is not uncommon that in traditional
schools (koryu), dj are rarely used for training at all, instead being
reserved for more symbolic or formal occasions. The actual training is conducted typically outdoors or in a less
formal area.

Many traditional dj follow a prescribed pattern with shomen ("front") and various entrances that are used based on
student and instructor rank laid out precisely. Typically students will enter in the lower-left corner of the dj (in
reference to the shomen) with instructors in the upper right corner. Shomen typically contains kamidanaan area for
a Shint shrine and other artifacts. The term kamiza is frequently confused by martial arts practitioners with the
Kamidana. Other artifacts may be displayed throughout the dj, such as kanban that authorize the school in a style
or strategy, and items such as taiko drums or armor (yoroi). It is not uncommon to find the name of the dj and the
Dojo 65

dj kun (roughly "dj rules") displayed prominently at shomen as well. Visitors also typically have a special place
reserved, depending on their rank and station. Weapons and other training gear will normally be found on the back
wall.
The Noma dj in Tokyo is an example of the old kend dj within modern kendo.
A hombu dj of a style is the administrative and stylistic headquarters of a particular martial arts style or group.
Some well-known dj located in Japan are:
Kodokan (Judo)
Aikikai Hombu Dj (Aikido)
Noma dojo (Kendo)

Other names for training halls

Other names for training halls that are equivalent to "dojo" include the following:
Dojang (taekwondo)
Gelanggang (silat Melayu)
Heya (sumo)
Kalari (kalaripayat)
Kwoon (wushu)
Sasaran (pencak silat)

In Zen Buddhism
The term dj is also used to describe the meditation halls where Zen Buddhists practice zazen meditation. It is
sometimes used instead of the term "zendo" which is more specific, and more widely used. European St Zen
groups affiliated with the International Zen Association prefer to use "dj" instead of zendo to describe their
meditation halls as did their founding master, Taisen Deshimaru.

References
[1] "Martial Arts" (http:/ / www. japan-guide. com/ e/ e634. html). Japan Experience. . Retrieved 13 November 2012.
Kamiza 66

Kamiza
Kamiza ( ) is the Japanese language
term referring to the "top seat" within a
room, meaning the place of honor; the term
also applies to the best seats in air-planes,
trains, and cars. The antonym, meaning
"bottom seat," is shimoza ( ). In a
room, the kamiza is the seat or position that
is most comfortable, usually furthest from
the door -- because this is warmest, and was
safest from attack back in the feudal period.
In a traditional washitsu room it would often
be a zabuton placed so the person sitting
there has his back to the tokonoma; the
A traditional Japanese room with a tokonoma
kamiza is the spot closest to the tokonoma or
simply farthest from the door in a room
lacking a tokonoma. In a Western-style
room it would be a comfortable armchair or
sofa, or the head of a table. The term is
general, and does not only apply to Japanese
culture.

Choosing a seat
When entering a room in Japan on a formal
occasion, it is of great importance to assume
the correct seating position, and to leave the
kamiza free for the most important person A picture of Morihei Ueshiba is
present, whether it is a special guest or the displayed in the kamiza of many
person of highest rank. However, if one aiki-dojo.

humbly sits somewhere indicative of lower

status and is then encouraged by the host to move to the kamiza, it is acceptable to do so.

The best seats in a car in descending order of rank are: directly behind the driver, behind the front passenger, in the
middle of the back seat, front passenger seat, driver. In air-plane or train passenger seating, the "top seat" is the
window-side, followed by the aisle seat and then the middle seat.
Kamiza 67

In dojo
In the dojo (training halls) of many Japanese martial arts, the kamiza is the location of a small Shinto shrine which is
called a kamidana. [1] [2] [3] [4] The front of the dj may also simply be called "front" ( shmen) or the shinza.

References
[1] images at (http:/ / www. daitouryu. net/ 1230691847918/ ) daitouryu.net
[2] images at (http:/ / www. jujutsu. com/ jujutsu/ html02/ jujutsu-kenpou/ n-douzyou. htm) jujutsu.com
[3] image (http:/ / hashiichi. gozaru. jp/ hp/ DSC03665. jpg) " " Shinmeikan kendo dojo
[4] (http:/ / www. shotokai. jp/ japanese/ dojo/ index. html) (Japan Karatedo Shotokai)

Tatami
A tatami () is a type of mat used as a flooring material in traditional
Japanese-style rooms. Traditionally made of rice straw to form the core
(though nowadays sometimes the core is composed of compressed
wood chip boards or polystyrene foam), with a covering of woven soft
rush (igusa) straw, tatami are made in standard sizes, with the length
exactly twice the width, an aspect ratio of 2:1. Usually, on the long
sides, they have edging (heri) of brocade or plain cloth, although some
tatami have no edging.
Room with tatami flooring and shji

History
The term tatami is derived from the verb tatamu, meaning to fold or
pile. This indicates that the early tatami were thin and could be folded
up when not used or piled in layers.[1] Tatami were originally a luxury
item for the nobility. During the Heian period, when the
shinden-zukuri architectural style of aristocratic residences was
consummated, the flooring of shinden-zukuri palatial rooms were
mainly wooden, and tatami were only used as seating for the highest
aristocrats.[2] In the Kamakura period, there arose the shoin-zukuri
architectural style of residence for the samurai and priests who had
gained power. This architectural style reached its peak of development Men making tatami mats, late 19th century.

in the Muromachi period, when tatami gradually came to be spread

over whole rooms, beginning with small rooms. Rooms completely spread with tatami came to be known as zashiki
(lit., room spread out for sitting), and rules concerning seating and etiquette determined the arrangement of the
tatami in the rooms.[2] It is said that prior to the mid-16th century, the ruling nobility and samurai slept on tatami or
woven mats called goza, while commoners used straw mats or loose straw for bedding.[3]

The lower classes had mat-covered earth floors.[4]

Tatami were gradually popularized and finally reached the homes of commoners toward the end of the 17th
century.[5]
Houses built in Japan today often have very few tatami-floored rooms, if any. Having just one is not uncommon. The
rooms having tatami flooring and other such traditional architectural features are referred to as nihonma or washitsu,
Tatami 68

"Japanese-style rooms".

Size
The size of tatami differs between different regions in Japan. In the Kyoto area, tatami generally measure .955m by
1.91m. Tatami of this size are referred to as Kyma tatami. Tatami in the Nagoya region generally measure .91m by
1.82m, and are referred to as ainoma (lit., "in-between" size) tatami. In the region around Tokyo, tatami generally
measure .88m by 1.76m. Tatami of this size are referred to as Edoma or Kantma tatami. In terms of thickness,
5.5cm is average for a Kyma tatami, while 6.0cm is the norm for a Kantma tatami.[2] A half mat is called a hanj,
and a mat of three-quarter length, which is used in tea-ceremony rooms (chashitsu), is called daimedatami.[1] In
terms of traditional Japanese length units, a tatami is (allowing for regional variation) 1 ken by half a ken, or
equivalently 6 shaku by 3 shaku formally this is 1.81818... meters .90909... meters, the size of Nagoya tatami.
Note that a shaku is almost the same length as one foot in the English measurement system.
In Japan, the size of a room is typically measured by the number of
tatami mats (- -j), about 1.653 square meters (for a standard
(Nagoya) size tatami). Alternatively, in terms of traditional Japanese
area units, room area (and especially house floor area) is measured in
terms of tsubo, where one tsubo is the area of two tatami mats (a
square); formally 1 ken by 1 ken or a 1.81818... meter square, about
3.306 square meters.

Some common room sizes are (in the Nagoya region):

4 mats = 9 shaku 9 shaku 2.73 m 2.73 m
6 mats = 9 shaku 12 shaku 2.73 m 3.64 m
8 mats = 12 shaku 12 shaku 3.64 m 3.64 m One possible layout of a 4mat room. Half
Shops were traditionally designed to be 5mats, and tea rooms are matFull mat

frequently 4mats.

Layout
There are rules concerning the number of tatami mats and the layout of the tatami mats in a room. In the Edo period,
"auspicious" tatami arrangements and "inauspicious" tatami arrangements were distinctly differentiated, and the
tatami accordingly would be rearranged depending on the occasion. Nowadays, the "auspicious" layout is ordinarily
used. In this arrangement, the junctions of the tatami form a "T" shape; in the "inauspicious" arrangement, the tatami
are in a grid pattern wherein the junctions form a + shape.[2]
An inauspicious layout is said to bring bad fortune. In homes, the mats must not be laid in a grid pattern, and in any
layout there is never a point where the corners of four mats touch.
Tatami 69

Notes
[1] Kodansha Encyclopedia of Japan, entry for "tatami."
[2] Sato Osamu, "A History of Tatami," in Chanoyu Quarterly no. 77 (1994).
[3] Kodansha Encyclopedia of Japan, entry for "bedding"
[4] "The Yoshino Newsletter" (http:/ / www. yoshinoantiques. com/ Interior-article.
html). "Floors/Tatami". Yoshino Japanese Antiques. . Retrieved 2007-03-28.
[5] "Kyoto International Community House Newsletter" (http:/ / www. kcif. or. jp/ en/
newsletter/ lik/ archives/ 0304/ 04_2003. htm). 2nd section titled History of tatami.
Kyoto City International Foundation. . Retrieved 2007-03-28.

Typical layout of a 4mat tea room in the cold

season, when the hearth built into the floor is in
use. The room has a tokonoma and mizuya dk

Seiza
Seiza ( , literally "proper sitting") is
the Japanese term for the traditional formal
way of sitting in Japan.

A woman in seiza performing a Japanese tea ceremony

Seiza 70

Form
To sit seiza-style, one first kneels on the
floor, folding their legs underneath their
thighs, while resting the buttocks on the
heels. The ankles are turned outward as the
tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a
slight "V" shape, the tops of the feet are flat
on the floor and big toes are overlapped, and
the buttocks are finally lowered all the way
down. Depending on the circumstances, the
hands are folded modestly in the lap, or are
placed palm down on the upper thighs with
the fingers close together, or are placed on
the floor next to the hips, with the knuckles
rounded and touching the floor. The back is
kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Jimmy Wales sitting seiza
Traditionally, women sit with the knees
together while men separate them slightly. Some martial arts, notably kend, aikid, and iaid, may prescribe up to
two fist widths of distance between the knees.

Stepping into and out of seiza is mindfully performed. There are codified traditional methods of entering and exiting
the sitting position depending on occasion and type of clothing worn.

History
Through the early history of Japan, various ways of sitting were regarded as 'proper', such as sitting cross-legged,
sitting with one knee raised, or sitting to the side. People's social circumstances, clothing styles, and the places where
they sat naturally brought about their manners of sitting. The development, in the Muromachi period, of Japanese
architecture in which the floors were completely covered with tatami (thick straw mats), combined with the strict
formalities of the ruling warrior class for which this style of architecture was principally designed, heralded the
adoption of the sitting posture known today as seiza as the respectful way to sit. However, it probably was not until
around the years surrounding the turn of the 18th century (the Genroku to Kyh eras in Japanese history) that the
Japanese generally adopted this manner of sitting in their everyday lives. In present-day Japan, traditional-style
tatami-floored rooms, and circumstance where one should sit 'properly' in this manner on the tatami/floor, have
become uncommon, and many people in Japan are consequently unaccustomed to sitting seiza.[1]

Floor
Seiza involves sitting down on the floor and not on a chair. In traditional Japanese architecture, floors in various
rooms designed for comfort have tatami floors. Seiza thus is closely connected with tatami flooring. There are
circumstances, however, when people sit seiza-style on carpeted and hardwood floors. In many martial arts, for
instance, this sitting position generally takes place on hardwood floors. Depending on the formality of the occasion,
the setting, and the relative status of the person, it is sometimes acceptable to sit on a special cushion called a
zabuton ( , literally a "sitting futon").
Seiza 71

Difficulties
Sometimes stools are provided for elderly or injured people even when others are expected to sit seiza-style. It is
advisable, particularly in formal situations, to at least try to sit seiza-style. Non-Japanese who have not grown up
sitting in this posture may, however, have difficulty assuming it at all. Those unfamiliar with seiza will likely find
that maintaining it for more than a minute or two tends to lead to loss of circulation, with the accompanying 'pins and
needles' feeling, followed by painful burning sensations, and then eventually complete numbness in the legs.
However, the physical discomfort lessens with experience as the circulation of the blood improves. Experienced
seiza practitioners can maintain the posture for forty minutes or more with minimal discomfort. Certain knee
problems are greatly agitated when assuming this position, specifically Osgood-Schlatter disease.
Special seiza stools are available in Japan. They are folding stools, small enough to be carried in a handbag, which
are placed between the feet and on which one rests the buttocks when sitting seiza-style. They allow one to maintain
the appearance of sitting seiza while discreetly taking pressure off the heels and feet.

Use in traditional arts

Doing seiza is an integral and required part of several traditional
Japanese arts, such as certain Japanese martial arts and tea
ceremony (a table-style version of tea ceremony known as ryrei
was invented in the 19th century). Seiza is also the traditional way
of sitting while doing other arts such as shodo (calligraphy) and
ikebana (flower arranging), though with the increasing use of
western-style furniture it is not always necessary nowadays.

Many theatres for traditional performing arts such as kabuki and

sumo still have audience seating sections where the spectators sit The judo practitioner at right performs a bow while
in seiza style. seated in seiza

Shikk
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikk ( , knee-movement), is considered
more polite than standing up and walking regularly. Shikk is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional
formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikid, where practitioners learn to defend
themselves while moving in shikk.
To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as
a whole unit. It is because movement in shikk forces one to engage the hips that it is considered valuable for aikid
training.
Seiza 72

Alternative sitting positions

Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura ( ), is considered informal: it is
appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in
informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant,
and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is
difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people.
Sitting cross-legged is generally considered uncouth for women, and
female informal sitting has both legs off to one side, with one side of
the hips on the floor.

Sakakibara Yasumasa sitting in agura position

Kiza
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position
momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains
seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching
the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (
). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor,
one then will be in the seiza position. Kiza could be
translated as "dangerous sitting", as the bodyweight
creates a flexion on the feet which is considered
harmful. In iaido, practitioners stand up to draw the
sword and cut after momentarily assuming kiza, so as
not to sprain the instep jumping up directly from seiza.
This iaido practitioner is executing a cut directly from kiza

References
[1] Japanese online Encyclopedia of Japanese Culture (http:/ / iroha-japan. net/ iroha/ B06_custom/ 03_seiza. html)

External links
SEIZA No Kamae Tutorial (http://www.flashmavi.com/ninjutsu_seiza_no_kamae.shtml) (Japanese Martial
Arts)
The Proprieties of Sitting (http://www.ourorient.com/the-proprieties-of-sitting.htm)
Uchi-deshi 73

Uchi-deshi
Uchi-deshi (Kanji: Hiragana: lit. "inside student") is a Japanese term for a live-in
student/apprentice who trains under and assists a sensei on a full-time basis. The system exists in kabuki, rakugo,
shogi, igo, aikido, sumo, karate and other modern Japanese martial arts.

Lifestyle
Uchi-deshi usually live in the dj or the home of the teacher, or in separate accommodations near the dj. He
serves the teacher all day, every day. Duties may include cleaning and secretarial work. In contrast to uchi-deshi,
students who live outside are referred to as soto-deshi (Kanji: Hiragana: literally "outside
students").
Historically, an uchi-deshi was typically chosen and groomed to become the next head of a school of martial arts
when a direct family member was not available.

Related terms
In modern times, the role is also referred to as tsukibito (Kanji: Hiragana: literally,
"attached person"). Other terms include senshsei ( ; ) and kenshsei (Kanji:
Hiragana: "trainee"), although these terms are more general and do not necessarily
indicate a live-in apprentice. The term rensh-sei ( ) is used in Japanese pro wrestling.

Current uchi-deshi programs

Yoshinkan Aikido Ryu[1]
Aikido of South Florida[2]
Nippon Kan[3]
Kyokushin Karate Goki-Ryo[4]
Aikido of Berkeley[5]
Aikido Association of America[6]
Aikido Heiwa[7]
Asociacin Sudamericana de Aikido, Buenos Aires[8]
Shinjinkai, Chicago[9]
New York Aikikai

External links
Patrick Aug Becoming an Uchideshi: How to Train Seriously in Japan [10] aikidojournal.com

References
[1] AIKIDO RYU - UCHIDESHI SYSTEM (http:/ / www. aikidoryu. or. jp/ eng/ course/ pupil. html)
[2] Aikido of South Florida Uchideshi Program (http:/ / www. aikidosouthflorida. com/ deshi. cfm)
[3] Nippon Kan Uchideshi Information (http:/ / www. nippon-kan. org/ uchideshi/ uchideshi. html)
[4] Goki-Ryo (http:/ / www. budokarate. com/ b/ uchideshi. html)
[5] Aikido of Berkeley Uchi Deshi (http:/ / www. aikidoofberkeley. com/ uchi_deshi/ index. php)
[6] Aikido Association of America Uchideshi Program (http:/ / www. aaa-aikido. com/ uchideshi_program. htm)
[7] Aikido Heiwa Uchi-Deshi (http:/ / www. aikidoheiwa. com/ uchideshi. html)
[8] (Spanish) Programa de Deshis (http:/ / www. asaikido. com. ar/ Asociacion/ Deshis. htm)
[9] Shinjinkai Aikido Uchideshi Training Program (http:/ / www. shinjinkai. org/ programs_uchideshi. html)
[10] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=1
Ky 74

Ky
Ky

Coloured belts are worn by ky ranked practitioners in many martial arts, including judo, karate, Kuk Sool Won and taekwondo.

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: ky

Ky ()Japanese pronunciation:[kju] is a Japanese term used in martial arts, the tea ceremony, flower arranging, go,
shogi, academic tests and other similar activities to designate various grades, levels or class of proficiency or
experience. In China, ky () is called "ji", and it is used for academic tests. In Korea, the term geup () is used
(also transliterated as gup or kup).

History
In 1882, Kan Jigor, the founder of Judo, established the system of Dan ranking to measure the Judo practitioners'
ability. This system was referred to the Dan ranking system of Go, the ancient board game. Some organizations of
academic tests started using the Ky ranking system to measure candidates' ability.[1]
Similarly, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department started a ranking system using Ky to measure the police
officers' ability in Kendo. Grades were from 8th to 1st.[2]
In the 1890s, the Greater Japan Martial Virtue Society introduced the dan and ky ranking system to other martial
arts in Japan.[3]
Ky 75

Martial arts usage

In Japanese martial arts, ky-level practitioners hold the ranks below dan or
black belt. The ky ranking system varies from art to art and school to school.
In some arts, all the ky-level practitioners wear white belts while in others
different coloured belts, tags or stripes are used; in kendo and aikido there are
not usually external indicators of grade. Although some aikido schools do use
a coloured belt system the norm is for ky grades to wear a white belt, and for
dan grades to wear a black belt.[4] Ky-level practitioners are often called
mudansha ( ), "ones without dan" and are considered as initiates
rather than students. When practitioners have reached the ranking of first
degree black belt, they become shodansha ( ). The holder of a black
belt of any degree is a ydansha ( ), "one with dan".

The certificate of 8th ky in karate.

Academic tests usage

The organizations of martial arts are not only issuers, but the
organizations of academic tests also issue Ky grading system and
dan ranking system. Some organizations of academic tests started
Ky ranking system to measure the candidates' ability. For
instance, the Japanese Kanji Aptitude Test Association issue the
gradings from 10th to 1st Ky, and it also provides Pre-1st and Pre
2nd Ky.[5]

List of Ky ranks
The certificate of Pre 2nd ky Japanese Kanji
Some martial arts refer to the ky ranks entirely in Japanese. Ky examination.

ranks progress using a descending order system, so 1st ky is the

highest. For example, the first ky outranks the 2nd ky. The Dan ranking system starts after 1st ky. Essentially, the
ky is the number of steps before reaching mastery whereas the dan gives steps into mastery.
Pre-1st ky and pre-2nd ky are used in examinations of languages, because it is often hard to pass the examinations
at 1st and 2nd ky.
Ky 76

Grade Pronunciation Japanese

1st (Highest) Ikky 1 /

Pre 1st Jun-Ikky 1 /

2nd Niky 2 /

Pre 2nd Jun-Niky 2 /

3rd Sanky 3 /

4th Yonky 4 /

5th Goky 5 /

6th Rokky 6 /

7th Nanaky 7 /

8th Hakky / Hachikyu 8 /

9th Kyky 9 /

10th Jukky 10 /

Non-Grade Muky

The lowest ky is sometimes called "Muky" ( ) which means "Non-Grade" in English. The lowest ky depends
on organizations. For instance, the United States Judo Federation has 12th ky as the lowest grade for junior class,
and 7th ky as the lowest for adult class.
In Japan, the difficulty is classified into three categories as in the following list.

Grade Pronunciation Japanese

Highest Jky

Middle Chky

Beginning Shoky

Ky ranks in China
The grading system of Ky is imported to China too. Ky () in China is called "ji" (same character different
pronunciation), and 1st kyu is the lowest as same as descending order. For example, the Chinese language test
certified HSK uses 6th ji as the highest grade.

Coloured belts
Ky 77

In some styles, students wear white belts until they

receive their first dan rank or black belt, while in others
a range of colors are used for different ky grades. The
wearing of coloured belts is often associated with ky
ranks, particularly in modern martial arts such as karate
and judo (where the practice originated). However,
there is no standard association of belt colours with
particular ranks and different schools and organizations
assign colours independently; see Rank in Judo for
examples of variation within an art. However, white is
often the lowest ranked belt and brown is the highest
Karateka wearing different coloured belts
ky rank, and it is common to see the darker colors
associated with the higher ranks, i.e. the closest to
black belt.

The system of using different colored belts to mark rank is not universally accepted in the martial arts. Supporters of
the belt colors point out their use as a simple visual key for experience, such as in matching opponents for sparring,
allowing opponents to somewhat accurately judge each other's skill, and to split them for competitions.[6] Those who
oppose the use of coloured belts are also often concerned that students will worry too much about relative rank, and
become arrogant with trivial promotions and differences,[7] while supporters feel that by providing small signs of
success and recognition, students are more confident, and their training is more structured, and that the ranking
system encourages higher ranked students to assist lower ranked ones, and lower ranked students to respect their
seniors.

References
[1] Pauley, Daniel C. Pauley's Guide - A Dictionary of Japanese Martial Arts and Culture By Daniel C. Pauley, Samantha Pauley, 2009 p208
[2] Kendo America: Kendo Rank (http:/ / www. kendo-usa. org/ rank. htm)
[3] Morris, Phil; The Origins Of Judos Kyu/Dan Grading System (http:/ / www. shiseiryu. com/ originsofjudosgradingsystem. htm)
[4] Lawler, Jennifer; Martial Arts For Dummies John Wiley & Sons, 2011 ISBN 978-1-118-06961-5
[5] SOAS: Japanese Kanji Aptitude Tests (http:/ / www. soas. ac. uk/ languagecentre/ awards/ kanjiapt/ )
[6] Homma, Gaku; Children and the Martial Arts: An Aikido Point of View North Atlantic Books, 1993, ISBN 978-1-55643-139-5 p32
[7] Lowry, Dave; In the dojo: the rituals and etiquette of the Japanese martial arts Shambhala Publications, 2006, p55

External links
Martial arts (http://www.dmoz.org//Sports/Martial_Arts/) at the Open Directory Project
World Martial Arts Community (http://www.intermartialarts.com/)
Martial art books and resources (http://www.encyclopedia-of-kicks.com/)
Dan 78

Dan
Dan (rank)

Dan and Ky ranks are indicated by belt color or by stripes on the belt

Japanese name

Kanji:
Hiragana:

Transliterations

- Revised Hepburn: Dan

The dan ( dan) ranking system is a Japanese mark of level, which is used in modern fine arts and martial arts. The
word dan () literally means "step" (of the stairs) or "stage". As a ranking system, it was originally used at a Go
school in the Edo period,[1] this system was applied to martial arts by Kan Jigor, the founder of judo and later
introduced to other East Asia countries.[2]
In the modern Japanese martial arts, holders of dan ranks often wear a black belt, those of higher rank may also wear
red-and-white and red belts. Dan ranks are still given in arts such as the strategy board games Go, Renju, the art of
flower arrangement (ikebana); and the tea ceremony.
The character of Dan ( dan) is used in Japanese to mean step or grade, and is commonly equated with a degree.
However, the origin of the Chinese character, spelled dun in Pinyin, was used to mean "phase". Dan rank is often
used along with the lower rank system, Ky ( Ky) rank. There are other methods of assessing rank in Japanese
martial systems; of particular note is the older menkyo system.

History
The dan ranking system in go was devised by Honinbo Dosaku (16451702), a professional go player in the Edo
period.[3][4] Prior to the invention, top-to-bottom ranking was evaluated by comparison of handicap and tended to be
vague. Dosaku valued the then highest title holder, Meijin at 9 Dan. He was likely inspired by an ancient Chinese go
ranking system (9 Pin Zhi) and an earlier court ranking system (nine-rank system), although lower numbers are more
senior in those systems.
Dan ranks were transferred to martial arts by Kan Jigor (18601938), the founder of judo. Kano started the
modern rank system in 1883 when he awarded shodan (the lowest dan rank) to two of his senior students (Shiro
Saigo and Tsunejiro Tomita). Prior to this, martial arts schools awarded progress with less frequent menkyo licenses
or secret scrolls.[5]
There was still no external differentiation between ydansha (black belt ranks) and mudansha (those who had not yet
attained a dan grade). Different athletic departments within the Japanese school system were already using markers
of rank, most notably in swimming where advanced swimmers wore a black ribbon around their waists.[4] Kano
adopted the custom of having his ydansha wear black obi (belts) in 1886.
Dan 79

At that time, these obi were not the belts karateka and jdka wear today; the students were still practicing in
kimono. They wore the wide obi still worn with formal kimono. In 1907, Kano invented the modern keikogi
(practice uniform in the color), and belts in white for mudansha and black for yudansha. The system of colored
junior belts was introduced by Mikonosuke Kawaishi in Europe in 1935.[6] The basic progression of the colors and
tip colors (e.g., white yellow green blue brown black) facilitated dyeing the same belt.

Modern usage in Go
Traditionally, the level of go players has been defined using kyu and
dan ranks.[7] Kyu ranks are considered student ranks,[8] whilst dan
ranks are considered master ranks.[8] Especially in amateur play, these
ranks facilitate the handicapping system, with a difference of one rank
roughly corresponding to one free move at the beginning of the game.
With the ready availability of calculators and computers, rating
systems have been introduced. In such systems, a rating is rigorously
calculated on the basis of game results.

Dan (abbreviated online as "d") ranks are for advanced players.

Although many organizations let players choose their own kyu rank to
a certain extent, dan ranks are often regulated. This means that players will have to show good results in tournaments
or pass exams to be awarded a dan rank. Serious students of the game will often strive to attain a dan rank. Dan ranks
are generally available up to about 7th dan; professional player ranks go up to 9th dan.

Usage in martial arts

While the use of the ky/dan system, and colored belts is common to both modern martial arts of direct Japanese or
other east Asian origin, and to arts that are derived from these, or from other areas, it is not universal.

In Japanese martial arts

In modern times, a dan-ranked practitioner of a style is usually
recognized as a martial artist who has surpassed the ky, or basic,
ranks. They may also become a licensed instructor in their art. In
many styles, however, achieving a dan rank means that, while one
is no longer considered a beginner, one is not yet necessarily an
expert. Rather it means that one has learned the basics.

The total number of dan ranks is style-specific (1st through 5th

and 1st through 10th are common in Japanese martial arts). The
lower dan grades can normally be attained through a grading
Diploma of 7th Dan in Japanese Kendo.
examination or sometimes through competition. The higher dan
grades usually require years of experience and contribution to the
relevant modern martial art. This may be through instruction or research and publication. These grades can only be
awarded by a higher-graded representative of the principal dojo or sometimes by a steering committee. There is no
set achievement level that is universal. Ranking systems are specific to the school or style, so ranks do not
necessarily translate across different martial arts styles. In fact, dan ranks do not necessarily indicate one wears a
black belt. In martial arts such as iaid, kend or jd, no external signifier of rank is worn, though a black belt is by
far the most recognizable symbol to the general public.
Dan 80

The highest dan ranks are sometimes reserved for the founder or leaders of a style and only high-ranking students
can be promoted to them. For example, only seven living people have a tenth dan in judo and only nineteen have
been promoted to the rank since its inception.[9] This has led to upper level ranks becoming extinct in some arts. In
other styles, the dan ranks are not the highest level that might be attained, with instructor certification and
judge/judgment authorization being understood as higher-level or more sophisticated.

Ranks in Japanese
Many arts use between one and ten dan ranks:

Degree 1st Dan 2nd Dan 3rd Dan 4th Dan 5th Dan 6th Dan 7th Dan 8th Dan 9th Dan 10th Dan

Pronunciation Shodan[10] Nidan Sandan Yondan Godan Rokudan Nanadan[11] Hachidan Kyudan Jdan

Japanese / /

In some arts, black belts are worn at all dan levels. In other arts, the highest rank (10th dan) wears a red colored belt.
In Judo, 6th to 8th dan wear a red and white patterned belt, 9th and 10th wear a solid red belt.
In many styles shodan implies that all the basics of the style have been mastered. At sandan, the student is deemed
capable of teaching independently as a teacher or instructor, often called sensei. At Godan, the budka may receive
certification as a master level practitioner (Shidin). Generally, the lower dan ranks are validated on the basis of
knowledge and physical skill. The higher the dan rank, the more leadership ability, teaching experience, and service
to the style play a role in promotion. In British judo, to gain promotion from 1st to 5th Dan, judo players must
demonstrate theoretical technique and competitive skill in graded competitions. Promotions from 6th to 10th Dan are
awarded for services to the sport of judo.
In modern Kendo, the dan system was recently changed so that 8th dan is the highest attainable rank. Unlike Judo,
all dan promotion within the ZNKR, IKF and its member countries is by examination. Whereas dan grades are
awarded for technical ability, there is a parallel Shogo system awarding Renshi, Kyoshi, Hanshi, against suitability
as a role model to some members of the Kodansha ranks of 6th, 7th and 8th dan. Renshi and Kyoshi are awarded on
written examination and Hanshi by election. There is some debate amongst some kendoka about the fairness of the
Kyoshi test which unlike the equivalent for Renshi must be written in Japanese.
Although the dan system is distinctly Japanese, it has been adopted by many other martial arts styles. The dan system
and the well-known symbol of a black-belt have been absorbed into common usage to represent a person with
above-average or highly trained skills in a particular discipline.

Chinese martial arts

Since 1998, the Chinese Wushu Association together with the National Sport Commission and the Chinese Wushu
Research Institute has established a graduation system based on nine Duan levels:
Symbol: Duan Wei (level)
Beginning Level:
So-called basic duans for students with some years of experience.
1. Qingyingyi duan: Green Eagle
2. Yinyinger duan: Silver Eagle
3. Jinyingsan duan: Gold Eagle
Intermediate Level:
Middle-level duans for wushu students who are able to teach and have approximately 10 years wushu experience.
Starting from 5th Duan, there has to be proof of a scientific work in wushu research, i.e. publications.
Dan 81

4. Qinghusi duan: Green Tiger

5. Yinhuwu duan: Silver Tiger
6. Jinhuliu duan: Gold Tiger
Advanced Level:
Advanced level is only awarded to very experienced masters with excellent reputation in Wushu. The person
awarded such a Duan is officially allowed to call himself "Grand Master".
7. Qinglongqi duan: Green Dragon
8. Yinlongba duan: Silver Dragon
9. Jinlongjiu duan: Gold Dragon
For international standardization, the Chinese Wushu Association has decided to use the Japanese word Dan instead
of the Chinese Duan.
This graduation system is not totally new in Chinese wushu. In older days, there have been graduations as mentioned
in the Chinese Wushu-Encyclopedia (Zhongguo Wushu baike quanshu) or later at the Emperor's court.

Korean martial arts

Korean martial arts lacked a grading system up until
the Japanese occupation (19101945) during which a
variety of Japanese martial arts were introduced in the
Korean school system, most notably judo and kendo.
After the occupation, newly emerging martial arts like
taekwondo, Soo Bahk Do and hapkido continued using
the dan () and geup () ranks. The dan rank system
is also used by baduk players. Nowadays, the Korea
Taekkyon Association also issues dan ranks to
taekkyeon practitioners.

Someone who has received a dan rank is called a Some Korean martial art schools use embroidered bars to denote
yudanja (). different dan ranks, as shown on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd dan belts
above
In some Korean schools, most notably in Kukkiwon
(WTF) taekwondo, there is also a pum () system in
place. Practitioners who have not reached the age of 16 yet can not test for a dan rank. For them, there is a system of
four pum grades. After they reach the age of 15, their pum-grade can be changed to the corresponding dan-grade,
although some organizations require the practitioner to take an additional exam. In Kukkiwon taekwondo, one can
test for pum-grades until the age of 18. Usually, the belt worn by pum holders is a bi-color red and black belt.

Ranks in Korean
When numbering the dan ranks, Sino-Korean numbers are used. Common names for the dan ranks are thus:
1. Il dan (): first-degree black belt (also known as cho dan ( hanja: ))
2. Yi dan (): second-degree black belt
3. Sam dan (): third-degree black belt
4. Sa dan (): fourth-degree black belt
5. O dan (): fifth-degree black belt
6. Yuk dan (): sixth-degree black belt
7. Chil dan (): seventh-degree black belt
8. Pal dan (): eighth-degree black belt
9. Gu dan (): ninth-degree black belt
Dan 82

Usually, the dan ranks do not go past ninth dan, although on some occasions in some organizations, a tenth dan
() has been issued. According to the Official Kukkiwon Instructors' Manual under section E of Dan Promotion
Procedures, they have only ever issued five official 10th Dan ranks. One was issued to a living person Un Yong
Kim, and four to the following deceased grandmasters who were considered to have made a great contribution to
taekwondo: Byeong Roh Lee (Jidokwan), Chong Soo Hong (Moodukkwan), Il Sup Chun (Jidokwan) and Nam Suk
Lee (Changmookwan). Leaders of private organizations, like ATA and the Jhoon Rhee system for example, often
promote their leader or founder to 10th Dan. However, these promotions are internal and not recognized by the
Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo Headquarters, Seoul, Korea).
Dan ranks are divided in two sections. Yudanja is from 1st to 5th Dan and is called "Master", Kodanja is 6th to 9th
Dan and called "Grandmaster", according to the Kukkiwon Taekwondo Instructors Textbook.
According to ITF Taekwondo styles, Dan grades 13 are classed as National Instructors. Dan grades 46 are classed
as International Instructors. Dan grades 78 are Master grades (Junior and Senior respectively) and 9th Dan is
Grand-Master. People who have reached the grade of 4th Dan and above can be recognized by black stripes along
the arms and legs of the Dobok (training suit).

References
[1] GoGoD (Fairbairn & Hall) (2007). "Honinbo Dosaku". Articles on Famous Players
[2] Black Belt (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=t88DAAAAMBAJ) at Google Books
[3] GoGoD (Fairbairn & Hall) (2007). "Articles on Famous Players". Honinbo Dosaku
[4] Morris, P. (2005). "Background to Jujutsus Ranking System" (http:/ / en. allexperts. com/ q/ Karate-332/ 2010/ 9/ meaning-kyu. htm). .
[5] Cunningham, D. (2010-09-09). "Belt colours and ranking systems" (http:/ / www. e-budokai. com/ articles/ belts. htm). e-budokai. .
[6] Ohlenkamp, N. (2009-01-05). "The Judo Rank System" (http:/ / judoinfo. com/ obi. htm). . Retrieved 2011-09-29.
[7] Nihon Kiin. "Strength; Dan and Kyu" (http:/ / www. nihonkiin. or. jp/ lesson/ knowledge-e/ dankyu. htm). .
[8] Nederlandse Go Bond. "Classificatie van spelers" (http:/ / gobond. nl/ Generiek/ ToonPagina. php?Pagina=14). . Retrieved 2008-03-28.
[9] Saner, Emine (2010-02-08). "The 72-year-old Scot who's won judo's highest accolade" (http:/ / www. guardian. co. uk/ sport/ 2010/ feb/ 09/
george-kerr-judo-10th-dan). The Guardian. . Retrieved 2011-09-30.
[10] Shodan is "beginning degree". Ichidan, , is "first degree" but this is less commonly used.
[11] Shichidan is not commonly used.
Black belt 83

Black belt
In martial arts, the black belt is a way to describe a graduate of a field where a practitioner's level is often marked by
the color of the belt. The black belt is commonly the highest belt color used and denotes a degree of competence. It
is often associated with a teaching grade though frequently not the highest grade or the "expert" of public
perception.[1] It is also a relatively recent invention, dating from the late 19th century, rather than an ancient
custom.[2]

Origin
The systematic use of belt colour to denote the rank was first used by
Kano Jigoro, the founder of judo, who first devised the colored belt
system using obi, and awarded the first black belts to denote a Dan
rank in the 1880s. Initially the wide obi was used; as practitioners
trained in kimono, only white and black obi were used. It was not until
the early 1900s, after the introduction of the judogi, that an expanded
colored belt system of awarding rank was created.[2] Other martial arts
later adopted the custom or variation on it (e.g. using colored sashes) to
denote rank including in arts that traditionally did not have a
A martial artist black belt performing a kata
formalized rank structure. This kind of ranking is less common in arts
that do not claim a far eastern origin, though it is used in the Marine
Corps Martial Arts Program.

Relative rank
Rank and belts are not equivalent between arts, styles, or even within
some organizations. In some arts, a black belt is expected in three
years, while in others ten years may be common. Testing for black belt
is commonly more rigorous and more centralized than for lower
grades. It is a common belief that belts are handed out more loosely in
the West than in Asia, where the custom of using the color of the belt
to indicate a practitioner's rank originated. In Japan, however, rank
often comes more or less automatically with time training and the
black belt has little to do with the "master" level which westerners
often think of when they hear the term "black belt".

Two aikido black belts training

Ability
In contrast to the "black belt as master" stereotype, a black belt commonly indicates the wearer is competent in a
style's basic technique and principles.[2] Since in many styles a black belt takes approximately three to six years of
training to achieve, a good intuitive analogy would be a bachelor's degree: the student has a good understanding of
concepts and ability to use them but has not yet perfected their skills. In this analogy a master's degree and a
doctorate would represent advancement past the first degree.
Another way to describe this links to the terms used in Japanese arts; shodan (for a first degree black belt), means
literally the first/beginning step, and the next grades, nidan and sandan are each numbered as "ni" is two and "san" is
three, meaning second step, third step, etc. The shodan black belt is not the end of training but rather as a beginning
to advanced learning: the individual now "knows how to walk" and may thus begin the "journey".
Black belt 84

As a 'black belt' is commonly viewed as conferring some status, achieving one has been used as a marketing
'gimmick', for example a guarantee of being awarded one within a specific period or if a specific amount is paid.[3]
Some schools place profit ahead of ability when using these tactics and are sometimes referred to as McDojos.[4]

Teaching
In some Japanese schools, after obtaining a black belt the student also begins to instruct, and may be referred to as a
senpai (senior student) or sensei (teacher). In others, a black belt student should not be called sensei until they are
sandan (third degree black belt), as this denotes a greater degree of experience and a sensei must have this and grasp
of what is involved in teaching a martial art.

Higher grades
In Japanese martial arts the further subdivisions of
black belt ranks may be linked to dan grades and
indicated by 'stripes' on the belt. Ydansha (roughly
translating from Japanese to "person who holds a dan
grade") is often used to describe those who hold a black
belt rank. While the belt remains black, stripes or other
insignia may be added to denote seniority, in some arts,
very senior grades will wear differently colored belts.
In judo and some forms of karate where a sixth dan will
wear a red and white belt, although the red and white Some martial art schools use embroidered bars to denote different
levels of black belt rank, as shown on these taekwondo 1st, 2nd, and
belt is often reserved only for ceremonial occasions,
3rd dan black belts.
while a black belt is still worn during training. At 9th or
10th dan becomes red. In some schools of Jujutsu, the
Shihan rank and higher wear purple belts. These other colors are often still referred to collectively as 'black
belts'.[3][5]

References
[1] "Myths and Misconceptions Part 1 - Vol 44 No. 1" (http:/ / www. blackbeltmag. com/ archives/ 452). Black Belt Magazine. . Retrieved
2010-01-29.
[2] Ohlenkamp, Neil (Last modified March 25, 2007.). "The Judo Rank System" (http:/ / www. judoinfo. com/ obi. htm). JudoInfo.com. .
Retrieved 2007-10-15.
[3] "Michael Jai White Ignites Black Dynamite" (http:/ / www. blackbeltmag. com/ michael_jai_white_black_dynamite/ archives/ 816). Black
Belt Magazine. . Retrieved 2009-12-27.
[4] Cotroneo, Christian. (November 26, 2006) Toronto Star. Kicking it up at the McDojo. (http:/ / www. thestar. com/ article/ 154329) Section:
News; Page A12.
[5] "Becoming A Black Belt" (http:/ / www. fightmagazine. com/ mma-magazine/ mma-article. asp?aid=298& issid=22). Fight Magazine. .
Retrieved 2010-01-08.

External links
Origins of the Karate Rank System (http://www.judoinfo.com/karateranks.htm)
Aikidogi 85

Aikidogi
Aikidogi ( or ) is the formal Japanese
name for the uniform used for Aikido training. Most practitioners
simply call it a gi or dogi. There are few if any rules regarding the
Aikido uniform other than local or organizational guidelines,
though for reasons of tradition most aikidoka wear an aikidogi that
is made from bleached (or occasionally unbleached) cotton or
sometimes cotton-poly blends.
Practically Aikido training sits somewhere between Judo and
Karate in the nature of its practice and therefore it is very common
These practitioners are both wearing aikidogi and
to find both lightweight karategi and heavier judogi being used by
hakama
aikidoka depending on preference. Both are more durable than
typical Western clothing. A judogi is typically thick enough to
support the weight of its wearer. Morihei Ueshiba seems to have used a traditional judogi with a dark coloured
hakama most of the time, though there are numerous records of him wearing more traditional kimono and hakama
combinations and to this day some variation is found even within an individual organization or dojo depending on
the instructor(s).

In addition to judogi and karategi used for Aikido practice there are also a small number of companies which
manufacture keikogi specifically for Aikido training. These tend to differ from other styles of keikogi in subtle ways
reflecting some of the unique aspects of Aikido training, such as shorter sleeves reaching to just below the elbow.
Unlike many other martial arts Aikido continues to emphasize defences from a seated position and therefore aikidogi
often have heavily reinforced zubon or pants (especially kneepatches) and also tend to have slightly longer skirts
around the waist of the uwagi or jacket to allow the aikidoka to tuck their uwagi in to their hakama without any
trouble. Additionally Aikido uwagi tend to have slightly shorter sleeves to facilitate training from wrist grabs which
is very common, especially at lower levels. Some aikidogi are derived from judogi and have a heavyweight tightly
woven terrycloth style uwagi, while others are made from a heavy canvas karategi style material strong enough for
regular grappling and throwing found in Aikido training.
Hakama 86

Hakama
Hakama () are a type of traditional Japanese clothing. They
were originally worn only by men, but today they are worn by
both sexes. Hakama are tied at the waist and fall approximately to
the ankles. Hakama are worn over a kimono (hakamashita).
There are two types of hakama, divided umanori ( ,
literally horse-riding hakama) and undivided andon bakama (
, lit., lantern hakama). The umanori type have divided legs,
similar to trousers. Both these types appear similar. A "mountain"
or "field" type of umanori hakama was traditionally worn by field
or forest workers. They are looser in the waist and narrower in the
leg.
Hakama are secured by four straps (himo); two longer himo
attached on either side of the front of the garment, and two shorter
himo attached on either side of the rear. The rear of the garment
has a rigid trapezoidal section, called a koshi-ita ( ). Below
that on the inside is a hakama-dome ( ) (a spoon-shaped
component sometimes referred to as a hera) which is tucked into
Two Miko wearing hakama
the obi or himo at the rear, and helps to keep the hakama in place.

Hakama have seven deep pleats, two on the back and five on the front. The pleats are said to represent the seven
virtues of bushido, considered essential to the samurai way. Although they appear balanced, the arrangement of the
front pleats, (three to the right, two to the left) is asymmetrical, and as such is an example of asymmetry in Japanese
aesthetics.

Men's hakama
The most formal type of men's hakama are made of stiff, striped silk, usually black and white, or black and navy
blue. These are worn with black montsuki kimono (kimono with one, three, or five family coats of arms on the back,
chest, and shoulders), white tabi (divided-toe socks), white nagajuban (under-kimono) and various types of footwear.
In cooler weather, a montsuki haori (long jacket) with a white haori-himo (haori-fastener) completes the outfit.
Hakama can be worn with any type of kimono except yukata (light cotton summer kimono generally worn for
relaxing, for sleeping, or at festivals or summer outings). While striped hakama are usually worn with formal
kimono, stripes in colours other than black, grey and white may be worn with less formal wear. Solid and graduated
colours are also common.
While hakama used to be a required part of men's wear, nowadays typical Japanese men usually wear hakama only
on extremely formal occasions and at tea ceremonies, weddings, and funerals. Hakama are also regularly worn by
practitioners of a variety of martial arts, such as kendo, iaido, taido, aikido, ryu-te, and kyd. Sumo wrestlers, who
do not wear hakama in the context of their sport, are, however, required to wear traditional Japanese dress whenever
they appear in public. As hakama are one of the most important parts of traditional male formal dress, sumo
wrestlers are often seen wearing hakama when attending appropriately formal functions.
In addition to martial artists, hakama are also part of the every-day wear of Shinto kannushi, priests who maintain
and perform services at shrines.
Hakama 87

Kamishimo, kataginu, and naga-bakama

Hakama traditionally formed part of a complete outfit called a
kamishimo ( or ). Worn by samurai and courtiers during the
Edo period, the outfit included a formal kimono, hakama, and a
sleeveless jacket with exaggerated shoulders called a kataginu
(pictured).
Samurai visiting the shgun and other high-ranking daimyo at court
were sometimes required to wear very long hakama called
naga-bakama (long hakama). These resemble normal hakama in every
way except their remarkable length in both the back and front, forming An Edo-era kamishimo ensemble.
a train one or two feet long and impeding the ability to walk normally,
thus helping to prevent a surprise attack or assassination attempt (see image here [1]). Naga-bakama are now only
worn particularly in noh plays (including kygen), Kabuki plays and Shinto rituals.

Karusan-bakama
Some hakama during the Sengoku period had the hems made narrower than the body in imitation of the ballooning
trousers worn by the Portuguese. This style carried on into the Edo period and became called karusan-bakama. In
addition to the taper, they had a secured band of clothlooking rather like a pants cuffsewn around each legs
hem, so the ballooning fabric would not open out like regular hakama.

Sashinuki hakama
Sashinuki are a type of hakama that are meant to be worn blousing over the leg and exposing the foot. To accomplish
this, they are somewhat longer than normal hakama, and a cord is run through the hem and drawn tight, creating a
"ballooning" effect . To allow for the body required, more formal sashinuki were six-panel hakama rather than four
panels. Technically, this cord around the ankle makes sashinuki a type of kukuri- (tied) hakama. The earliest form of
sashinuki were cut like normal hakama (albeit a bit longer) and have a cord running through the hem of each leg.
These cords were pulled tight and tied off at the ankle. This was the form commonly worn during the Heian period.
Sashinuki were worn by court nobles with various types of leisure or semi-formal wear.

Women's hakama
Women's hakama differ from men's in a variety of ways, most notably fabric design and
method of tying.
While men's hakama can be worn on both formal and informal occasions, except as part
of martial arts wear, women rarely wear hakama except at graduation ceremonies and for
traditional Japanese sports such as kyudo, some branches of aikido and kendo.[2] Only
very rarely are hakama worn by women at tea ceremony. The image of women in
kimono and hakama are culturally associated with school teachers. Just as university
professors in Western countries don their academic caps and gowns when their students
graduate, many female school teachers in Japan attend annual graduation ceremonies in
traditional kimono with hakama.

The most iconic image of women in hakama is the miko or shrine maidens who assist in
Miko's hakama
maintenance and ceremonies. A miko's uniform consists of a plain white kimono with a
bright red hakama, sometimes a red naga-bakama during formal ceremonies.[3]
Hakama 88

While formal men's hakama are made of striped fabric, women's

formal hakama are either a solid color or dyed with gradating hues.
Hakama for young women are sometimes sparsely decorated with
embroidered flowers like sakura. Women typically wear hakama just
below the bust line, while men wear them at the waist.

Tying hakama
There are many ways for men to tie hakama. First, the obi is tied in a
special knot (an "under-hakama knot") at the rear. Starting with the
front, the ties are brought around the waist and crossed over the top of
the knot of the obi. The ties are brought to the front and crossed below
the waist, then tied at the back, under the knot of the obi. The
hakama-dome is then tucked behind the obi, the koshi-ita is adjusted, Women at a graduation ceremony, featuring
and the rear ties brought to the front and tied in a variety of ways. The hakama with embroidered flowers, and
most formal method results in a knot that resembles two bow-ties in a demonstrating the waistline.

cross shape.

The method of tying the ties is also different, with women's hakama being tied in a simpler knot or a bow. As with
men's hakama, the front ties are first brought to the back, then to the front, then tied at the back in a knot. Then the
back himo are brought around to the front. At this point, they may be tied with a bow at the left hip, just in front of
the opening, with the ends of the ties at equal lengths. For more secure fastening, the ties may be wrapped once at
center front, then tied inside at the back.

Folding hakama
Like all types of traditional Japanese clothing, it is important to fold
and store hakama correctly to prevent damage and prolong the life of
the garment, especially those that are made of silk. With hakama this is
particularly important, since hakama have so many pleats which can
easily lose their creases; re-creasing the pleats may require specialist
attention in extreme cases.
Hakama are often considered particularly challenging to learn to fold
properly, in part because of their pleats and in part because their long
ties must be correctly smoothed and gathered before being tied in
specific patterns. A folded hakama

Various martial arts traditions in which practitioners wear them have

prescribed methods of folding the hakama. This is often considered an important part of etiquette.
In some martial arts it is also an old tradition that the highest ranking student has the responsibility to fold the
teacher's hakama as a token of respect.[4][5]
Hakama 89

References
[1] http:/ / www. iz2. or. jp/ english/ fukusyoku/ kosode/ 9. htm
[2] Noririn (2007-01-15). "Tooshiya" (http:/ / photozou. jp/ photo/ show/ 105169/ 2174266). Casual Walk '07 photo album. Photozou. . Retrieved
2008-04-20.
[3] Noririn (2007-02-03). "Imayou Hounou" (http:/ / photozou. jp/ photo/ show/ 105169/ 2302310). Casual Walk '07 photo album. Photozou. .
Retrieved 2008-04-20.
[4] Yamanaka, Norio (1982). The Book of Kimono. Kodansha International, Ltd.. pp.3539,102, 103,111115. ISBN978-0-87011-785-5.
[5] Dalby, Liza (1993). Kimono: Fashioning Culture. Random House. pp.328,55,69,80,83,90,149,190,2145,254. ISBN978-0-09-942899-2.

Further reading
How to fold the Hakama (http://www.scnf.org/hakama.html), Southern California Naginata Federation.
How to tie a Hakama (http://www.bujindesign.com/info/hakama_tying.pdf), Bu Jin Design Corporation.
How to wash a Hakama (http://www.kendo-usa.org/reference/hakama_wash.htm), Kendo America.
du hakama]

Obi
Obi (, , literally "sash") is a sash for
traditional Japanese dress, keikogi worn for
Japanese martial arts, and part of kimono outfits.
The obi for men's kimono is rather narrow, 10
centimetres (3.9in) wide at most, but a woman's
formal obi can be 30 centimetres (12in) wide and
more than 4 metres (13ft) long. Nowadays, a
woman's wide and decorative obi does not keep the
kimono closed; this is done by different
undersashes and ribbons worn underneath the obi.
The obi itself often requires the use of stiffeners
and ribbons for definition of shape and decoration.
There are many types of obi, most for women: wide
obis made of brocade and narrower, simpler obis
for everyday wear. The fanciest and most colourful
obis are for young unmarried women.[1][2] The
contemporary women's obi is a very conspicuous
accessory, sometimes even more so than the
kimono robe itself. A fine formal obi might cost
more than the rest of the entire outfit.

Obis are categorised by their design, formality,

material, and use. Informal obis are narrower and
Two young women wearing kimonos climbing the staircase of Kiyomizu,
shorter.
a Buddhist temple. The obis have been tied in the common drum bow,
taiko musubi.
Obi 90

History
In its early days, an obi was a cord or a ribbon-like sash, approximately
8 centimetres (3.1in) in width. Men's and women's obis were similar.
At the beginning of the 17th century, both women and men wore a
ribbon obi. By the 1680s the width of women's obi had already doubled
from its original size. In the 1730s women's obis were about 25
centimetres (9.8in) wide, and at the turn of the 19th century were as
wide as 30 centimetres (12in). At that time, separate ribbons and cords
were already necessary to hold the obi in place. The men's obi was at
its widest in the 1730s, at about 16 centimetres (6.3in).[3]

Before the Edo period, which began in 1600, women's kosode robes
were fastened with a narrow sash at the hips.[4] The mode of attaching
the sleeve widely to the torso part of the garment would have
prevented the use of wider obis. When the sleeves of kosode began to
grow in width (i.e. in length) at the beginning of the Edo period, the
obi widened as well. There were two reasons for this: firstly, to A servant tying the obi for a geisha in the 1890s.

maintain the aesthetic balance of the outfit, the longer sleeves needed a
wider sash to accompany them; secondly, unlike today (where they are customary only for unmarried women)
married ladies also wore long-sleeved kimono in the 1770s. The use of long sleeves without leaving the underarm
open would have hindered movements greatly. These underarm openings in turn made room for even wider obis.[3]

Originally, all obis were tied in the front. Later, fashion began to affect the position of the knot, and obis could be
tied to the side or to the back. As obis grew wider the knots grew bigger, and it became cumbersome to tie the obi in
the front. In the end of the 17th century obis were mostly tied in the back. However, the custom did not become
firmly established before the beginning of the 20th century.[3]
At the end of the 18th century it was fashionable for a woman's kosode to have overly long hems that were allowed
to trail behind when in house. For moving outside, the excess cloth was tied up beneath the obi with a wide cloth
ribbon called shigoki obi. Contemporary kimonos are made similarly over-long, but the hems are not allowed to trail;
the excess cloth is tied up to hips, forming a fold called ohashori. Shigoki obis are still used, but only in decorative
purposes.[3]
The most formal of obis are about to become obsolete. The heavy and long maru obi is nowadays used only by
maikos and brides as a part of their wedding outfit. The lighter fukuro obi has taken the place of maru obi. The
originally everyday nagoya obi is the most common obi used today, and the fancier ones may even be accepted as a
part of a semi-ceremonial outfit. The use of musubi, or decorative knots, has also narrowed so that women tie their
obi almost solely in the simple taiko musubi, "drum knot".[5] Tsuke obis with ready-made knots are also gaining in
popularity.
Obi 91

Women's obi
The wide women's obi is folded in two when worn, to a width of about 15 centimetres (5.9in) to 20 centimetres
(7.9in). It is considered elegant to tie the obi so that the folded width is in harmony with the wearer's body
dimensions. Usually this means about a tenth of her height. The full width of the obi is present only in the decorative
knot, musubi.
A woman's obi is worn in a fancy musubi knot. There are dozens of ways to tie an obi, and different knots are suited
to different occasions and different kimonos.
There are many different types of women's obi, and the usage of them is regulated by many unwritten rules not
unlike those that concern the kimono itself. Certain types of obi are used with certain types of kimono; the obis of
married and unmarried women are tied in different ways. Often the obi adjusts the formality and fanciness of the
whole kimono outfit: the same kimono can be worn to very different situations depending on what kind of obi is
worn with it.[6]

Women's obi types

Darari obi ( ) is a very long maru obi worn by maiko. A
maiko's darari obi has the kamon insignia of its owner's okiya in the other
end. A darari obi can be 600 centimetres (20ft) long.
Fukuro obi ( , "pouch obi") is a grade less formal than a maru
obi[7] and the most formal obi actually used today.[5] It has been made by
either folding cloth in two or sewing two pieces of cloth together. If two
cloths are used, the cloth used for to make the backside of the obi may be
cheaper and the front cloth may be for example brocade. Not counting
marriage outfits, the fukuro obi has replaced the heavy maru obi as the
obi used for ceremonial wear and celebration.[8] A fukuro obi is often
made so that the part that will not be visible when worn are of smooth,
thinner and lighter silk.[7] A fukuro obi is about 30 centimetres (12in)
wide and 360 centimetres (11.8ft) to 450 centimetres (14.8ft) long.
When worn, a fukuro obi is almost impossible to tell from a maru obi.[7]
Fukuro obis are made in roughly three subtypes. The most formal and
expensive of these is patterned brocade on both sides. The second type is
two-thirds patterned, the so-called "60 % fukuro obi", and it is somewhat
cheaper and lighter than the first type. The third type has patterns only in
the parts that will be prominent when the obi is worn in the common taiko
musubi.[5]

Fukuro Nagoya obi ( ) or hassun Nagoya obi (

, "eight inch Nagoya obi") is an obi that has been sewn in
Women's obis in scale:
two only where the taiko knot would begin. The part wound around the 1. tsuke/tsukuri/kantan obi
body is folded when put on. The fukuro Nagoya obi is intended for 2. hanhaba obi
making the more formal, two-layer variation of the taiko musubi, the 3. Nagoya obi

so-called nijuudaiko musubi. It is about 350 centimetres (11.5ft) long.[8] 4. Fukuro obi
5. Maru obi
Obi 92

Hoso obi ( "thin sash") is a collective name for informal

half-width obis. Hoso obis are 15 centimetres (5.9in) or 20
centimetres (7.9in) wide and about 330 centimetres (10.8ft)
long.[8]
Hanhaba obi ( [9] or , "half width
obi") is an unlined[8] and informal obi that is used with a
yukata or an everyday kimono.[7] Hanhaba obis are very
popular these days.[10] For use with yukata, reversible
hanhaba obis are popular: they can be folded and twisted Tsuke obi is much shorter than the other types of
in several ways to create colour effects.[11] A hanhaba obi obi.

is 15 centimetres (5.9in) wide and 300 centimetres (9.8ft)

to 400 centimetres (13ft) long. Tying it is relatively
easy,[10] and its use does not require pads or strings.[6] The
knots used for hanhaba obi are often simplified versions of
bunko-musubi. As it is more "acceptable" to play with an
informal obi, hanhaba obi is sometimes worn in
self-invented styles, often with decorative ribbons and
such.[10][11]

Kobukuro obi ( ) is an unlined hoso obi whose

width is 15 centimetres (5.9in) or 20 centimetres (7.9in)
and length 300 centimetres (9.8ft).[8]
Hara-awase obi ( ) or chya obi is an informal obi[2] that
The separate bow part of a tsuke obi is attached
has sides of different colours. It is frequently seen in pictures from using a wire hook.
the Edo and Meiji periods, but today it is hardly used.[5] A chya
obi ("day and night") has a dark, sparingly decorated side and
another, more colourful and festive side. This way the obi can be
worn both in everyday life and for celebration. The obi is about 30
centimetres (12in) wide and 350 centimetres (11.5ft) to 400
centimetres (13ft) long.

Heko obi ( , "soft obi") is a very informal obi made of

soft, thin cloth,[6] often dyed with shibori.[8] Its traditional use is as
an informal obi for children and men[8][12] and there were times
when it was considered totally inappropriate for women. Nowadays
young girls and women can wear a heko obi with modern, informal
kimonos and yukatas. An adult's heko obi is the common size of an
obi, about 20 centimetres (7.9in) to 30 centimetres (12in) wide and
about 300 centimetres (9.8ft) long.[12]

Hitoe obi ( ) means "one-layer obi".[13] It is made from silk

cloth so stiff that the obi does not need lining or in-sewn stiffeners.
One of these cloth types is called Hakata ori ( ), which
consists of thick weft thread interwoven with thin warp thread with
Girl wearing a yukata. A striking effect is
a stiff, tight weave.[14] (Obi's made from this material are also called obtained by folding the reversible obi to reveal
Hakata obi ( ).) A hitoe obi can be worn with everyday the contrasting underside.
Obi 93

kimono or yukata.[2][13] A hitoe obi is 15 centimetres (5.9in) to 20 centimetres (7.9in) wide (the so-called
hanhaba obi)[8] or 30 centimetres (12in) wide and about 400 centimetres (13ft)[8] long.
Kybukuro obi ( , "capital fukuro obi") was invented in the 1970s in Nishijin, Kyoto.[8] It lies among
the usage scale right between nagoya obi and fukuro obi, and can be used to smarten up an everyday outfit.[8] A
kybukuro obi is structured like a fukuro obi but is as short as a nagoya obi.[8] It thus can also be turned inside out
for wear like reversible obis.[8] A kybukuro obi is about 30 centimetres (12in) wide and 350 centimetres
(11.5ft) long.[8]
Maru obi ( , "one-piece obi") is the most formal obi. It is made from cloth about 68cm wide[12] and is
folded around a double lining and sewn together. Maru obis were at their most popular during the Taish- and
Meiji-periods.[7] Their bulk and weight makes maru obis difficult to handle and nowadays they are worn mostly
by geishas, maikos and others such. Another use for maru obi is as a part of a bride's outfit.[7] A maru obi is about
30 centimetres (12in) to 35 centimetres (14in) wide and 360 centimetres (11.8ft) to 450 centimetres (14.8ft)
long,[8][10] fully patterned[12] and often embroidered with metal-coated yarn and foilwork.[6]
Nagoya obi ( ), or when differentiating from the fukuro Nagoya obi also called kysun Nagoya obi
( , "nine inch nagoya obi")[8]) is the most used obi type today. A Nagoya obi can be told
apart by its distinguishable structure: one end is folded and sewn in half, the other end is of full width.[7] This is to
make putting the obi on easier. A Nagoya obi can be partly or fully patterned. It is normally worn only in the taiko
musubi style, and many Nagoya obis are designed so that they have patterns only in the part that will be most
prominent in the knot. A Nagoya obi is shorter than other obi types, about 315 centimetres (10.33ft) to 345
centimetres (11.32ft) long, but of the same width, about 30 centimetres (12in).[10]
Nagoya obi is relatively new. It was developed by a seamstress living in Nagoya at the end of the 1920s. The new
easy-to-use obi gained popularity among Tokyo's geisha, from whom it then was adopted by fashionable city
women for their everyday wear.[5]
The formality and fanciness of a Nagoya obi depends on its material just like is with other obi types. Since the
Nagoya obi was originally used as everyday wear it can never be part of a truly ceremonial outfit, but a Nagoya
obi made from exquisite brocade can be accepted as semi-ceremonial wear.[5]
The term Nagoya obi can also refer to another obi with the same name, used centuries ago. This Nagoya obi was
cord-like.[2]
Odori obi ( , "dance obi") is a name for obis used in dance acts.[2] An odori obi is often big,
simple-patterned and has patterns done in metallic colours so that it can be seen easily from the audience. An
odori obi can be 10 centimetres (3.9in) to 30 centimetres (12in) wide and 350 centimetres (11.5ft) to 450
centimetres (14.8ft) long. As the term "odori obi" is not established, it can refer to any obi meant for dance
acts.[2]
Sakiori obi is a woven obi made by using yard or narrow strips from old clothes as weave. Sakiori obis are used
with kimono worn at home. A sakiori obi is similar to a hanhaba obi in size and extremely informal.
Tenga obi ( , "fancy obi") resembles a hanhaba obi but is more formal. It is usually wider and made
from fancier cloth more suitable for celebration. The patterns usually include auspicious, celebratory motifs. A
tenga obi is about 20 centimetres (7.9in) wide and 350 centimetres (11.5ft) to 400 centimetres (13ft) long.
Tsuke obi ( ) or tsukuri obi ( ) or kantan obi is any ready-tied obi. It often has a separate,
cardboard-supported knot piece and a piece that is wrapped around the waist. The tsuke obi is fastened in place by
ribbons.[15] Tsuke obis are normally very informal[13] and they are mostly used with yukatas.
Obi 94

Accessories for women's obi

Obiage is a scarf-like piece of cloth that covers up the
obimakura[16] and keeps the upper part of the obi knot in
place.[2][13] These days it is customary for an unmarried, young
woman to let her obiage show from underneath the obi in the
front. A married woman will tuck it deeper in and only allow it
to peek. Obiage can be thought of as an undergarment for
kimono, so letting it show is a little provocative.

Obidome is a small decorative accessory that is fastened onto

obijime. It is not used very often.[16]
Obi-ita is a separate stiffener that keeps the obi flat.[2][16] It is a
thin piece of cardboard covered with cloth and placed between
the layers of obi when putting the obi on.[16] Some types of
obi-ita are attached around the waist with cords before the obi The structure of the common drum bow (taiko musubi).

is put on.[16] Obijime is shown in mid-shade grey, obiage in dark

grey. Obimakura is hidden by the obiage.
Obijime is a string about 150 centimetres (4.9ft) long[16] that
is tied around the obi and through the knot,[16] and which doubles as decoration.[12] It can be a woven string, or be
constructed as a narrow sewn tube of fabric.[12] There are both flat and round obijimes.[12] They often have tassels
at both ends[12] and they are made from silk, satin, brocade[12] or viscose.[16] A cord-like or a padded tube obijime
is considered more festive and ceremonial than a flat one.[16]
Obimakura is a small pillow that supports and shapes the obi knot.[2] The most common knot these days, taiko
musubi, is made using an elongated round obimakura.[16]

Men's obi
Formal obis worn by men are much narrower than those of women (the
width is about 10 centimetres (3.9in) at its most). The men's obi is
worn in much simpler fashion than women's: it is wrapped around the
waist, below the stomach and tied with a simple knot in the back.

Men's obi types

Heko obi ( , "obi for men between 15 and 25") is an
informal, soft obi,[8] free flowing and made of tie-dyed fabrics,
made from silk crape, habutai, cotton, or others. It is tied very
informally. The adult's heko obi is as long as a normal obi at 350
centimetres (11.5ft) to 400 centimetres (13ft), but relatively wide
at up to 74 centimetres (29in).[17] Adult men wear the heko obi
only at home,[8] but young boys can wear it in public, for example
at a summer festival with a yukata.

Kaku obi ( , "stiff obi") is another obi used by men. A formal A reversible kaku obi, about 6 centimetres
kaku obi is about 10 centimetres (3.9in) wide and 400 centimetres (2.4in) wide

(13ft) long[8] and depending on its material, colours and pattern is

suited to any and all occasions from everyday wear to a close
Obi 95

relative's funeral. A kaku obi typically is made of hakata ori (and

thus a Hakata obi) which has length-wise stripes[8]), or from silk
pongee, silk gauze, silk damask.[18] It is worn in the simple
kai-no-kuchi knot.

Netsuke
A Netsuke is an ornament suspended from the obi and worn by men.

Kaku obi

Children's obi
Children are dressed in kimono especially for the Shichi-Go-San
(Seven-Five-Three) celebration, when girls aged three and seven and
boys aged five are celebrated. Children's kimono outfits resemble those
of adults and their parts are basically miniature versions from adult's
pieces.[19] The youngest children wear soft, scarf-like obis.

Children's obi types

Sanjaku obi ( , , "three foot
long obi") is a type of men's obi. It is named for its length, three old
Japanese feet ( , about 37.9 centimetres (14.9in)). The obi is
sometimes called simply sanjaku ( ). During the Edo period it
was popular among the people as the obi for yukata-like kimonos
because of its ease of use. According to some theories, the sanjaku
obi originates from a scarf of the same length, which was folded and
used as a sash. A sanjaku obi typically is shaped like a kaku obi,
narrow and with short stitches. It is usually made from soft
cotton-like cloth. Because of its shortness, the sanjaku obi is tied in
the koma musubi, which is much like a square knot.

Shigoki-obi ( ) was utility wear in the time of trailing

kimonos, and was used to tie up the excess length when going out.
Nowadays the shigoki obi's only function is decorative.[3] It is part A little girl wearing kimono. A simple soft obi is
of a 7-year-old girl's outfit for celebration of shichi go san.[20] tied around the waist.

Tsuke obi is a popular obi used for children because of its ease of
use. There are even formal tsuke obis available for children.[20] These obis correspond to fukuro obis on the
formality scale.[20]
Obi 96

Obi in martial arts

Many Japanese martial arts feature an obi as part of their exercise
outfit. These obis are often made of thick cotton and are about 5
centimetres (2in) wide. The martial arts obis are most often worn in
the koma-musubi knot; in practice where hakama is worn, the obi is
tied in other ways.
In many martial arts the colour of the obi signifies the wearer's skill
level. Usually the colours start from the beginner's white and end in the
advanced black, or masters' red and white. When the exercise outfit
includes a hakama, the colour of the obi has no significance. Obis for bud. The colours shown range from
yellow to brown corresponding to judo ky levels
from 9th to 1st.
Knots (musubi)
The knot of the obi is called musubi ( , , literally "knot"). These days, a woman's knot often does not
keep the obi in place as much as it functions as a large decorative piece in the back. The actual knot is usually
supported by a number of accessories: pads, scarves and cords. While putting on the obi, especially when without
assistance, there is a need for several additional temporary ribbons.
There are hundreds of decorative knots[2][13] and they often represent flowers or birds. As everything else in a
kimono outfit, the knots are regulated by a number of unwritten propriety rules. Generally the more complex and
showy knots are for young unmarried women in festive situations, the more subdued for married or mature women
or for use in ceremonial situations.
In earlier days, the knots were believed to banish malicious spirits.[2] Many knots have a name with an auspicious
double meaning.[2]

Types of knots
Asagao musubi ( , , "morning glory") is a knot suitable
for yukata. As its name suggests, it resembles the Japanese morning glory.
The knot requires a great length of obi so it can be usually only be made
for little girls.[11]
Ayame musubi ( , , "Iris") is a very decorative and
complex knot that resembles a blossom of iris. It is considered suitable for
young women in informal situations and parties. Because of the
complexity and conspicuousness of the knot it should be worn with more
Chch musubi
subdued, preferably monochrome kimono and obi.[21]
Bara musubi ( , , "rose") is a contemporary, conspicuous
knot. It is suitable for young women and can be worn to informal parties. Because of the complexity of the knot, a
multi-coloured or strongly patterned obi should not be used. The patterns of the kimono should match the knot
representing an occidental flower.[22]
Chch musubi ( , ,"butterfly") is a version of the bunko musubi, tied using the
hanhaba obi. Most ready-made obis (tsuke obi) are made with the butterfly knot.
Obi 97

Darari musubi is a knot nowadays used only by maikos, dancers and

kabuki actors. It is easily distinguishable by the long "tails" hanging in the
back. In the past also courtesans[2] and daughters of rich merchants, among
others, would have their obis tied in this manner. A specific darari obi,
about 600 centimetres (20ft) long, is needed for making this knot in full
length.
There also exists a half-length version of the darari musubi, the so-called
handara musubi. According to tradition, a minarai (a maiko-to-be in
training) wears her obi in this style. Maikos wear this knot for specific
dances.

Fukura-suzume musubi ( ,"puffed sparrow") is a

decorative knot that resembles a sparrow with its wings spread and is worn Fukurasuzume musubi

only by unmarried women. It is suitable for formal occasions and is only

worn with a furisode. Traditionally, the fukura-suzume musubi worn with
a furisode indicated a woman was available for marriage.
Kai-no-kuchi musubi ( , "clam's mouth") is a subdued obi
which is often worn by men. Sometimes older women or women seeking a
somewhat masculine air to their outfit tie their obi in this knot.
Koma musubi ( , square knot, literally "foal knot") is often
used with haori strings and obijime. The short sanjaku obi for children is
also tied in this way.

Tateya musubi

Taiko musubi ( "drum") is the most used musubi these days. It is simple and subdued and resembles a
box. The taiko musubi is suited for both old and young women in almost any occasion and goes with almost any
kind of kimono and in some cases even with yukata. Only furisode are considered too formal and youthful to be
worn with the taiko musubi.
Nowadays the taiko musubi is usually associated with the taiko drum, but the origin of the name does not relate to
the instrument. The knot was created at the time of the festive opening ceremony of the Taikobashi bridge in
Tokyo in 1823.[2] Some geishas attending to the event tied their obis in a new, conspicuous way that was thought
to resemble the shape of a "playing card", ichimai karuta). The knot was a variation of a simple men's knot used
then. The knot worn by trendsetting geishas was later adopted by other women. By the creation of the taiko
musubi, the accessories obiage, obijime and obimakura were also established. These accessories belong to most
kimono outfits used today.[23]
Nijdaiko musubi ( "two layer drum") is, as its name suggests, a version of the common taiko
musubi, worn with the formal fukuro obi. Fukuro obis are longer than the more commonly used Nagoya obis, so
the obi must be folded in two during the tying of the knot.[6] The knot has an auspicious double meaning of
"double joy".[24]
Tateya musubi ( , "standing arrow[25] ") resembles a large bow and is one of the most simple musubi
worn with furisodes. According to the kitsuke authority Norio Yamanaka, it is the most suitable knot to be used
with the honburisode, the furisode with full length sleeves.[25]
Obi 98

Washikusa musubi ( , "eagle plant") is basically a bow which resembles a certain plant thought to look
like an eagle taking flight.[26]

Gallery

A complex musubi Tying a hanhaba A maiko in Kyoto, Washikusa musubi

worn as part of a obi around a her obi tied in the
costume worn to yukata darari style
wedding

Footnotes
[1] Flt et. al., p. 452.
[2] Yoshino Antiques. "Kimono" (http:/ / www. yoshinoantiques. com/ kimono. html). . Retrieved 7.3.2009.
[3] Dalby, pp. 4755
[4] Flt et. al., p. 450.
[5] Dalby, pp. 208212
[6] "Types of Obi" (http:/ / www. traditional-japanese-kimono. com/ Kimono-Basics/ types-of-obi. html). . Retrieved 2009-03-07.
[7] "Japanese Obi Types" (http:/ / www. gojapango. com/ fashion/ obi_types. html). . Retrieved 6.3.2009.
[8] Toma-san. " " (http:/ / www4. ocn. ne. jp/ ~tomasan/ kimono3-1. html) (in (Japanese)). . Retrieved 8.3.2009.
[9] " < >" (http:/ / www. ui-kimono. com/ obi/ index. html) (in
(Japanese)). . Retrieved 6.3.2009.
[10] "More about obi" (http:/ / www. ichiroya. com/ moreaboutobi/ moreaboutobi. htm). Kimono Flea Market Ichiroya. . Retrieved 7.3.2009.
[11] Toma-san. " " (http:/ / www4. ocn. ne. jp/ ~tomasan/ yukata-obi. html) (in (Japanese)). . Retrieved
6.3.2009.
[12] "Glossary" (http:/ / www. ichiroya. com/ glossary. htm). . Retrieved 7.3.2009.
[13] Kimono Place. "Glossary" (http:/ / www. kimonoplace. com/ glossary. html). . Retrieved 7.3.2009.
[14] "What's HAKATA-ORI?" (http:/ / www. fukunet. or. jp/ 21c-hakataori/ english/ hakataori. html). 21st Century HAKATA-ORI Japan Brand.
. Retrieved 17.7.2011.
[15] Toma-san. " " (http:/ / www4. ocn. ne. jp/ ~tomasan/ tukuriobi. html) (in (Japanese)). . Retrieved 6.3.2009.
[16] "Sailor Mo's Cosplay - Kimono Accessories" (http:/ / www. sailormo. net/ kimono/ k_access. html). . Retrieved 7.3.2009.
[17] " " (http:/ / kotobank. jp/ word/ ). / kotobank.jp. . Retrieved 2007-07-17.
[18] " " (http:/ / kotobank. jp/ word/ ). / kotobank.jp. . Retrieved 2007-07-17.
[19] JapaneseKimono.com. "Children's Kimono" (http:/ / www. japanesekimono. com/ childrens_kimono. htm). . Retrieved 7.3.2009.
[20] Toma-san. " " (http:/ / www4. ocn. ne. jp/ ~tomasan/ 753onna7. html) (in (Japanese)). .
Retrieved 6.3.2009.
[21] nickn. Sortie. "Ayame Obi musubi" (http:/ / www. jttk. zaq. ne. jp/ sortie/ Eayame. htm) (in (English)). . Retrieved 6.3.2009.
[22] nickn. Sortie. "Bara Obi musubi" (http:/ / www. jttk. zaq. ne. jp/ sortie/ Ebara. htm) (in (English)). . Retrieved 6.3.2009.
[23] Dalby, pp. 337348
[24] Yamanaka, pp.6670
[25] Yamanaka, pp. 7-12, 29-30
[26] nickn. Sortie. "Washikusa Obi musubi" (http:/ / www. jttk. zaq. ne. jp/ sortie/ Ewashikusa. htm) (in (English)). . Retrieved 6.3.2009.
Obi 99

References
Bennett, Gary (1997). Aikido techniques & tactics. Human Kinetics Publisher. ISBN0-88011-598-X.
Dalby, Liza (2001). Kimono, Fashioning Culture. Vintage. ISBN0-09-942899-7.
Flt, Olavi K.; Nieminen, Kai; Tuovinen, Anna; Vesterinen, Ilmari (2006) (in (Finnish)). Japanin kulttuuri.
Otava. ISBN951-1-12746-2.
Goodman, Fay (1998). The Ultimate Book of Martial Arts. Lorenz Books. ISBN1-85967-778-9.
Yamanaka, Norio (1986). The book of kimono. Kondansha International. ISBN0-87011-785-8.
 100

Weapons

J
A j (: ) is an approximately 1.276 m (4.18foot) long wooden staff,
used in some Japanese martial arts. The martial art of wielding the j is called
jjutsu or jd. Also, aiki-j is a set of techniques in aikido which uses the j to
illustrate aikido's principles with a weapon. The j staff is shorter than the b.
Today, the j is still used by some Japanese police forces.

Legendary origin
The techniques for j were reportedly invented by Mus Gonnosuke Katsuyoshi
( , fl. c.1605, date of death unknown) after he was
defeated by the famous swordsman, Miyamoto Musashi ( ,
15841645). They fought each other in a duel sometime between 1608 and
1611, according to Kenji Tokitsu. The record mentioning this duel, the Nitenki,
recounts:

"When Musashi was in Edo, he met an adept named Mus Gonnosuke,

who asked to fight him. Gonnosuke used a wooden sword. Musashi was in
the process of making a small Bo; he picked up a piece of firewood.
Gonnosuke attacked him without even bowing, but he received a blow
from Musashi that made him fall down. He was impressed and left."
A different text, the Kaijo Monogatari (dated to 1666) differs considerably from
the Nitenki version. In it, Gonnosuke is a boastful and brash warrior who duels
Musashi intending to see how Musashi compares with Musashi's father in
swordsmanship. The fight occurs in Akashi, not Edo, and Gonnosuke wields a Japanese j, 127.6cm (50.2in) tall
staff four shaku in length and reinforced with steel rings. After his defeat, he and 15cm (5.9in) in circumference,
made in the shape of a large walking
then went to Mount Homan-zan in Chikuzen (near Fukuoka), where he
stick.
practiced considerably, changing his preferred weapon to four shaku and two
sun in length - 1.27 meter as compared to 1.21 meter. This school was called the
Shint Mus-ry because of Gonnosuke's previous training under Sakurai Osuminokami Yoshikatsu of the
Shint-ry.

The school he founded to transmit his techniques has some old records which claims that Gonnosuke, struck by his
defeat, went into solitary meditation until he received divine inspiration in a dream; he then invented techniques to
fight against Musashi's two swords using only a stick, and defeated Musashi on their next encounter. Assuming the
records are accurate and genuine, this would be the only time Musashi was defeated,[1] as the vast majority of
documentation states that Musashi was never defeated.
J 101

Subsequent history
The usage of various stick weapons has existed in one form or another long before Mus Gonnosuke invented his
techniques, but his school, Shint Mus-ry, was probably the first known professional school that dedicated itself to
the art of using a j against a swordsman.
Several traditional Japanese kory ("old schools" of martial arts) used the j like a sword. The added length of the j
was meant to give it an advantage over the sword. Further, its wood construction allowed a fighter to improvise a j
quickly from a tree, branch, or other pole.

References
[1] Hatsumi, Hatsumi and Chambers, Quinton
(1971). Stick Fighting. Kodansha
Two J
International Ltd., p. 9. ISBN 0-87011-475-1

Further reading
Kenji Tokitsu (2004). Miyamoto Musashi: His life and writings. pp.6768. ISBN1-59030-045-9.

Aiki-j
Aiki-j (Kanji: Hiragana: ) is the name given specifically to the set of martial art
techniques practiced with a j (a wooden staff about four feet long), practiced according to the principles of aikido,
taught first by Morihei Ueshiba (aikido's founder),[1] then further developed by Morihiro Saito, one of Ueshiba's
most prominent students.

Development of aiki-j
Much of the aiki-j syllabus was developed by Morihei Ueshiba ( Ueshiba Morihei, 18831969) at his
dojo in Iwama, Japan, at the same time he developed aikido's sword training (called aiki-ken). It is well documented
that Ueshiba studied several different styles of martial arts, including the art of the spear (sjutsu). The aiki-j
techniques taught by Ueshiba were a distillation and modification of that training, with an emphasis upon the use of
the j as a method for the refinement of one's empty-handed aikido techniques.
Most of the practice of aiki-j was ultimately systematized not by Ueshiba, but by Morihiro Saito (
Sait Morihiro, 19282002), one of Ueshiba's most dedicated students and the person who took over the Iwama dojo
after Ueshiba died. Hence the unofficial term "Iwama style" to refer to Saito's style of aikido, incorporating a
significant amount of weapons training. In order to preserve the art and to teach an increasing number of students,
Saito gathered the teachings of Ueshiba and presented the world with "aiki-j". The first aiki-j techniques were
published in "Traditional Aikido", Vol I and II by Morihiro Saito, 1973. Before his death, Saito and his son Hitohiro
Saito ( Sait Hitohiro, born 1957) revived and refined this art.
Note that the practice of aiki-j is not pervasive. Some schools of aikido incorporate weapons training that is
unrelated to aiki-j, and others forego weapons training entirely.
Aiki-j 102

Aiki-j Practice
The primary purpose of aiki-j practice is to magnify errors in one's aikido technique, and to give the student an
opportunity to apply the principles of aikido in different situations. Saito codified three sets of techniques, the first
being twenty suburi (solo cutting exercises), the second being ten partnered forms, and the third being two kata (solo
forms). Some dojo also practice jiyu-waza armed with j (freestyle technique, without a predetermined form of
attack and response).

Suburi
Suburi ( : ), a word that translates literally to something like "elementary swinging", is used to
refer to the basic solo movements of aiki-j, developed by Saito as a distillation of the forms and partnered practice.
There are twenty aiki-j suburi. They are divided into sub-groups and named as follows (the English given is an
approximate translation):
Five Thrusting (tsuki) Movements
1. Direct thrust (choku-tsuki)
2. Counter thrust ( kaeshi-tsuki)
3. Rear thrust ( ushiro-tsuki)
4. Thrust, low counter ( tsuki gedan-gaeshi)
5. Thrust, high counter strike ( tsuki jdan-gaeshi-uchi)
Five Striking ( uchi) Movements
6. Front-of-the-head stepping strike ( shmen'uchikomi)
7. Repeating stepping strike ( renzoku uchikomi)
8. Head strike, low counter ( men'uchi gedan-gaeshi)
9. Head strike, rear thrust ( men'uchi ushiro-tsuki)
10. Reverse side-of-the-head strike, rear thrust ( gyaku-yoko'men ushiro-tsuki)
Three One-handed ( katate) Movements
11. One-handed low counter ( katate gedan-gaeshi)
12. One-handed distant-interval strike ( katate tma-uchi)
13. One-handed "figure-eight" counter ( katate hachi-no-ji gaeshi)
Five "Figure-eight" ( hass) Movements
14. "Figure-eight" counter, strike ( hass-gaeshi uchi)
15. "Figure-eight" counter, thrust ( hass-gaeshi tsuki)
16. "Figure-eight" counter, rear thrust ( hass-gaeshi ushiro-tsuki)
17. "Figure-eight" counter, rear strike ( hass-gaeshi ushiro-uchi)
18. "Figure-eight" counter, rear sweep ( hass-gaeshi ushiro-barai)
Two Flowing ( nagare) Movements
19. Flowing counter strike ( nagare-gaeshi-uchi)
20. Right flowing counter thrust ( migi nagare-gaeshi-tsuki)
Aiki-j 103

Kumij
The partnered forms practice of aiki-j is called kumij ( ), meaning the crossing/meeting of staves. There are
ten kumij in Saito's aiki-j curriculum. Ueshiba originally taught various partnered drills and techniques with the j,
and Saito originally codified them into a discrete series of seven such partner drills. In 1983, Saito was set to give a
public demonstration, and so devised three more kumij at that time.
The kumij teach students how to alternately control the center line and move off of it to avoid attacks and how to
blend with an opponent's attacks, among other skills. Improvisational variations on the kumij (called henka), which
generally cause the kumij form to end early with one person taking advantage of an opening to strike or throw the
other, are also taught.

Kata
Kata, simply meaning "forms", are typically solo, predetermined series of techniques practiced against an imaginary
opponent. In the aiki-j curriculum, there are three primary kata. The first is called "Sanjichi no J", is generally
referred to in English as the "Thirty-one Point J Kata", and was taught by Ueshiba. The second one is "Jsan no
J"; "Thirteen Point J Kata". The third one is "Roku no j". There are also well known partnered versions of these
forms, called bunkai.

References
[1] Lowry, D. (1987): Jo: Art of the Japanese short staff (p. 27). Burbank, CA: Ohara. (ISBN 978-0-89750-116-3)

Bokken
A bokken ( , bok(u), "wood", and ken,
"sword") (or commonly as bokut in
Japan), is a Japanese wooden sword used for
training. It is usually the size and shape of a
katana, but is sometimes shaped like other
swords, such as the wakizashi and tant.
Some ornamental bokken are decorated with
mother-of-pearl work and elaborate
carvings.
A daisho set of bokuto
Bokken should not be confused with shinai,
practice swords made of flexible bamboo.

History
Bokken were designed to lessen the damage caused by fighting with real swords and were used for the training of
samurai warriors in feudal Japan. Bokken eventually became lethal weapons themselves in the hands of trained
experts.[1]
Miyamoto Musashi, a kenjutsu master, was renowned for fighting fully armed foes with only one or two bokken. In
a famous legend, he defeated Sasaki Kojiro with a bokken he had carved from an oar while traveling on a boat to the
predetermined island for the duel. [2]
Bokken 104

Usage
The bokken is used as an inexpensive and relatively safe substitute for a real
sword in several martial arts such as kendo, aikido and kenjutsu. Its simple
wooden construction demands less care and maintenance than a katana. In
addition, training with a bokken does not carry the same mortal risk associated
with that of a sharp metal sword, both for the user and other practitioners near by.
While its use has several advantages over use of a live edged weapon, it can still
be deadly, and any training with a bokken should be done with due care. Injuries
occurring from bokken are very similar to those caused by clubs and similar
battering weapons and include compound fractures, ruptured organs, and other
such blunt force injuries. In some ways, a bokken can be more dangerous as the
injuries caused are often unseen and inexperienced practitioners may
underestimate the risk of harm. It is not a sparring weapon, but is intended to be
used in kata and to acclimate the student to the feel of a real sword. For sparring, a
bamboo shinai is typically used instead for obvious safety reasons.

In 2003, the All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF) introduced a set of basic
exercises using a bokuto called Bokuto Ni Yoru Kendo Kihon-waza Keiko-ho. This
form of practice is intended primarily for kendoka up to Nidan, but can be Various styles of bokken
beneficial for all kendo students.[3]
Suburito are bokken designed for use in suburi. Suburi, literally "bare swinging," are solo cutting exercises. Suburito
are thicker and heavier than normal bokken and users of suburito must therefore develop both strength and technique.
Their weight makes them unsuitable for paired practice and kata. One famous user of the suburi-sized bokken is
Miyamoto Musashi who used one in his duel against Sasaki Kojiro.
Bokken are currently issued to the Los Angeles Police Mounted Unit for use as batons.[4]

Types of bokken
Bokken can be made to represent any style of weapon required such as nagamaki,
no-dachi, yari, naginata, kama, etc. The most widely used styles are:
dait or tachi (katana-sized), long sword
shoto or kodachi or wakizashi bo, short sword, (wakizashi-sized)
tant bo (tant-sized)
suburito can be made in dait and shoto sizes
Additionally, various koryu (traditional Japanese martial arts) have their own distinct
styles of bokken which can vary slightly in length, tip shape, or in whether or not a tsuba
(hilt guard) is added.
The All Japan Kendo Federation specify the dimensions of bokken for use in the modern
kendo kata, called Nippon kendo kata.[5]
Tachi: Total length, approx. 102cm; tsuka (handle) approx. 24cm.
Kodachi: Total length, approx. 55cm; tsuka (handle) approx. 14cm.

An antique straight
Japanese bokken, 48 inches
long
Bokken 105

Construction
The type and quality of the wood, and the skill of the craftsman are critical factors in the manufacture of a good
quality bokken. Almost all mass produced bokken are made from porous, loose-grained southeast Asian wood.
These bokken may be easily broken when used in even light to medium contact drills and are best left for non
contact work, such as in kata. Furthermore, the wood is often so porous, that if the varnish is stripped off the
inexpensive bokken, one can see the use of wood fillers to fill the holes.
While most species of North American red oak are unsuitable for construction of bokken, there are some Asian
species of red oak that have a significantly tighter grain and will be able to withstand repeated impacts.
American white oak has been a proven staple over red oak due to its tighter grain structure. Another choice, hickory
wood, seems to have a very good blend of hardness and impact resistance, while still having a relatively low cost. A
few of the hardwoods that are used in American bokkens are the walnut, hickory, persimmon, oak and ironwood.[6]
The use of exotic hardwoods is not unusual when constructing more expensive bokken. Bokken have been made
from Brazilian cherrywood (Jatoba), others from purpleheart, and even from lignum vitae. Tropical woods are often
quite heavy, a feature often desirable in a bokken despite the brittleness of these heavy and hard woods. Many exotic
woods are suitable for suburi (solo practice), but not for paired practice where they would come into contact with
other bokken.
Some online retailers offer bokken constructed from polypropylene plastics. The exact applications and benefits of
such a weapon vary depending upon the user, as one such model has been demonstrated the breaking of openings.

Bokken in fiction
In manga, Hiroyuki Takei's Shaman King, Ryu possesses a wooden sword and uses it as his main weapon, and for
that reason he is also known as Bokuto no Ryu (Wooden Sword Ryu).
In anime Bleach is an example, Ikkaku Madarame carries a bokken when in his Gigai as he wasn't allowed to
carry a real sword in public.
In the manga/anime Gintama, the main character, Gintoki Sakata, wields a bokken as opposed to a katana, as the
story takes place in an Edo period of an alternate timeline where a weapons ban has been imposed by imperialistic
aliens.
Date Masamune is often portrayed as using a bokken as his main weapon in several media he has appeared in,
such as Samurai Deeper Kyo and the original Samurai Warriors.

References
[1] Secrets of the samurai: a survey of the martial arts of feudal Japan, Authors Oscar Ratti, Adele Westbrook, Contributor Adele, Westbrook
Edition reprint, illustrated, Publisher Tuttle Publishing, 1991, ISBN 0-8048-1684-0, ISBN 978-0-8048-1684-7 P.272 (http:/ / books. google.
com/ books?id=Z9lmmkvQOpoC& pg=PA272& dq=samurai+ bokken& hl=en& sa=X& ei=WUsuT-D4KIaftwftuqm-Cw&
ved=0CGYQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage& q& f=true)
[2] The Lone Samurai: The Life Of Miyamoto Musashi, Publisher Kodansha International, 2004, ISBN 4-7700-2942-X, 9784770029423 P.19
(http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=0p0C7Y8lkH8C& pg=PA18& dq=musashi+ came+ late+ and+ unkempt& hl=en& sa=X&
ei=Nv-UT--UBomC8ATMqsn9Aw& ved=0CEYQ6AEwBA#v=onepage& q=musashi came late and unkempt& f=false)
[3] Bokuto Ni Yoru Kendo Kihon-waza Keiko-ho (http:/ / zenkenren-shop. com/ jp/ kendo/ book. html#010110), 1 June 2003, All Japan Kendo
Federation, Tokyo, Japan (no ISBN).
[4] Edwards, Holly (August 6, 2000). "Mounted Patrols Train for Handling Unrest at Convention". Los Angeles Daily News: p.N3.
[5] Japanese-English Dictionary of Kendo (http:/ / zenkenren-shop. com/ en/ eigo/ index. html#050106), All Japan Kendo Federation, Tokyo,
Japan (no ISBN).
[6] The Martial Arts: Bokken (http:/ / www. essortment. com/ all/ bokkenmaritala_rmtc. htm)
Bokken 106

External links
A discussion of different woods with regard to bokken design, focusing particularly on durability (http://www.
aikiweb.com/weapons/goedkoop1.html)
Information about making or selecting a bokken (http://www.uoguelph.ca/~kataylor/bokuto.htm)

Aiki-ken
Aiki-ken (Kanji: Hiragana:
) is the name given
specifically to the set of Japanese
sword techniques practiced according
to the principles of aikido, taught first
by Morihei Ueshiba (aikido's founder),
then further developed by Morihiro
Saito, one of Ueshiba's most prominent
students. Currently, Iwama Shin-Shin
Aiki Shuren-kai is the main proponent
organization.

Development of aiki-ken
Aiki-ken training during a 2006 international seminar at Lesneven Aikido, in Lesneven,
Much of the aiki-ken syllabus was
France.
developed by Morihei Ueshiba (
Ueshiba Morihei, 18831969)
at his dojo in Iwama, Japan, at the same time he developed aikido's staff training (called aiki-j). It is well
documented that Ueshiba studied several different styles of kenjutsu (Japanese swordsmanship), but the aiki-ken
techniques are predominantly based upon the teachings of the Kashima Shint-ryu.[1]

Most of the practice of aiki-ken was ultimately systematized not by Ueshiba, but by Morihiro Saito (
Sait Morihiro, 19282002), one of Ueshiba's most dedicated students and the person who took over the Iwama dojo
after Ueshiba died. Hence the unofficial term "Iwama style" to refer to Saito's style of aikido, incorporating a
significant amount of weapons training. In order to preserve the art and to teach an increasing number of students,
Saito gathered the teachings of Ueshiba and presented the world with "aiki-ken". The first aiki-ken techniques were
published in "Traditional Aikido", Vol I and II by Morihiro Saito, 1973. Saito and his son Hitohiro Saito (
Sait Hitohiro, born 1957) revived and refined this art.
Note that the practice of aiki-ken is not pervasive. Some schools of aikido incorporate weapons training that is
unrelated to aiki-ken, and others forego weapons training entirely.

Aiki-ken Practice
Much of aiki-ken bears little similarity to other modern sword arts. Rather than learning to "fight" with swords, the
primary purpose of aiki-ken is to magnify errors in one's aikido technique, and to give the student an opportunity to
apply the principles of aikido in different situations. Aiki-ken is practiced using bokken (a wooden katana) and has a
wide variety of techniques. Saito codified two sets of techniques, the first being seven suburi (solo cutting exercises),
and the second being five partnered forms. Some dojo also practice jiyu-waza armed with bokken (freestyle
technique, without a predetermined form of attack and response).
Aiki-ken 107

Suburi
Suburi ( : ), a word that translates literally to something like "elementary swinging", is used to
refer to the basic solo movements of aiki-ken, developed as a distillation of the partnered practice.
There are seven aiki-ken suburi in Saito's tradition, and are very simply named as follows:
1. Ichi-no: A simple downward vertical cut.
2. Ni-no: Step back into jdan-no-kamae, then a downward vertical cut.
3. San-no: Step back into waki-gamae, then a downward vertical cut.
4. Yon-no: Step forward with a downward vertical cut; repeat.
5. Go-no: Step forward while guarding, then a 70 degree downward cut; repeat.
6. Roku-no: Step forward with a downward vertical cut, then shuffle forward and thrust.
7. Shichi-no: Step forward while guarding, then a 70 degree downward cut, then step forward and thrust.

Kumitachi
The partnered forms practice of aiki-ken is called kumitachi ( : ), meaning the
crossing/meeting of swords. There are five kumitachi in Saito's aiki-ken curriculum. The kumitachi teach students
how to alternately control the center line and move off it to avoid attacks and how to blend with an opponent's
attacks, among other skills.
1. Ichi-no-tachi ( ): first of sword
2. Ni-no-tachi ( ): second of sword
3. San-no-tachi ( ): third of sword
4. Yon-no-tachi ( ): fourth of sword
5. Go-no-tachi ( ): fifth of sword
6. Kimusubi-no-tachi ( ): blending one's energy with partner of sword
Improvisational variations on the kumitachi (called henka), which generally cause the kumitachi form to end early
with one person taking advantage of an opening to strike or throw the other, are also taught.

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Kashima Shinto-ryu" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=358). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-01-05.
Tant 108

Tant
Tant

Tant with signature (Mei) of Kunimitsu. Complete aikuchi style koshirae (mountings) and bare blade.
Type Japanese sword

Specifications
Bladelength avg. 1530 cm (5.912 in)

Bladetype Double or single edged, straight bladed

A tant ( , "short sword")[1][2] is one of the traditionally made Japanese swords[3] (nihonto)[4][5] that were worn
by the samurai class of feudal Japan. The tant dates to the Heian period, when it was mainly used as a weapon but
evolved in design over the years to become more ornate. Tant were used in traditional martial arts (tantojutsu) and
saw a resurgence of use in the West in the 1980s as the design made its way to America and is a common blade
pattern found in modern tactical knives.

Description
The tant is commonly referred to as a knife or dagger. The blade is single or double edged with a length between 15
and 30cm (6-12inches, in Japanese 1 shaku). The tant was designed primarily as a stabbing weapon, but the edge
can be used for slashing as well. Tant are generally forged in hira-zukuri style (without ridgeline),[1][6] meaning
that their sides have no ridge line and are nearly flat, unlike the shinogi-zukuri structure of a katana. Some tant have
particularly thick cross-sections for armor-piercing duty, and are called yoroi toshi. Tant were mostly carried by
samurai, as commoners did not generally wear them. Women sometimes carried a small tant called a kaiken[7] in
their obi primarily for self-defense. Tant were sometimes worn as the sht in place of a wakizashi in a daish,[8][9]
especially on the battlefield. Before the advent of the wakizashi/tant combination, it was common for a samurai to
carry a tachi and a tant as opposed to a katana and a wakizashi.[8]
It has been noted that the tachi would be paired with a tant and later the uchigatana would be paired with another
shorter uchigatana. With the advent of the katana, the wakizashi eventually was chosen by samurai as the short
sword over the tant. Kanzan Sat in his book The Japanese sword notes that there did not seem to be any particular
need for the wakizashi and suggests that the wakizashi may have become more popular than the tant due to the
wakizashi being more suited for indoor fighting. He mentions the custom of leaving the katana at the door of a castle
or palace when entering while continuing to wear the wakizashi inside.[10]
Tant 109

History of Tant in Japan

Heian to Muromachi
The tant was invented partway through the Heian period, when it was
mainly used as a weapon. With the beginning of the Kamakura period,
tant were forged to be more aesthetically pleasing, and hira and
uchi-sori tant were the most popular styles. Near the middle of the
Kamakura period, more tant artisans were seen, increasing the
abundance of the weapon, and the kanmuri-otoshi style became
prevalent in the cities of Kyoto and Yamato. Because of the style Tant by Hyga Masamune, 24.8cm, Unsigned
introduced by the tachi in the late Kamakura period, tant began to be Masamune, Formerly in the possession of Ishida
forged longer and wider. The introduction of the Hachiman faith Mitsunari who gave this sword to the husband of
his younger sister; the sword was stolen during
became visible in the carvings in the tant hilts around this time. The
the Battle of Sekigahara by Mizuno Katsushige,
hamon (line of temper) is similar to that of the tachi, except for the governor of Hyga Province, Kamakura period,
absence of choji-midare, which is nioi and utsuri. Gunomi-midare and around Sh to Karayaku eras (12881328),
suguha are found to have taken its place. In Nambokucho, the tant Mitsui Memorial Museum, Tokyo, Japan.

were forged to be up to forty centimeters as opposed to the normal one

shaku (about thirty centimeters) length. The tant blades became thinner between the uri and the omote, and wider
between the ha and mune. At this point in time, two styles of hamon were prevalent: the older style, which was
subtle and artistic, and the newer, more ostentatious style. With the beginning of the Muromachi period, constant
fighting caused the mass production of blades, meaning that with higher demand, lower-quality blades were
manufactured. Blades that were custom-forged still were of exceptional quality, but the average blade suffered
greatly. As the end of the period neared, the average blade narrowed and the sori became shallow.[11]

Momoyama to the Early Edo Period

Approximately two hundred fifty years of peace accompanied the
unification of Japan, in which there was little need for blades. With
weapon smiths given this time, both the katana and wakizashi were
invented, taking the place of the tant and tachi as the most-used pair
of weapons, and the number of tant forged was severely decreased.
The only tant produced during this period of peace were copies of
others from earlier eras.[12]

Antique Japanese tant shown dis-assembled,

Late Edo Period British Museum.

There were still few tant being forged during this period, and the ones
that were forged reflected the work of the Kamakura, Nambokucho, or Muromachi eras. Suishinshi Masahide was a
main contributor towards the forging of tant during this age.[12]

Meiji to present
Many tant were forged before World War II, due to the restoration of the Emperor to power. Members of the
Imperial Court began wearing the set of tachi and tant once more, and the number of tant in existence increased
dramatically. After world War II, a restriction on sword forging caused tant manufacture to fall very low.[13]
American and European interest in Japanese martial arts since the war created a demand for the tant outside Japan
from the 1960s through the present time.[14]
Tant 110

Types of Tant

Tant blade types

Shinogi: This is not a true tant, for it is usually created when a longer sword has been broken or cut. Tant are
seldom made in this form.
Kanmuri-otoshi: These tant had a single edge and a flat back. They had a shingoni that extended to the tip of the
blade and a groove running halfway up the blade. It was very similar to the unokubi style tant.
Kubikiri: Kubikiri are rare tant with the sharpened blade on the inside curve rather than the outside. One
interesting fact about kubikiri is that they have no point, making them difficult to use in battle and enshrouding
the weapon in mystery. Kubikiri can be roughly translated to head cutter. According to one myth, they were
carried by assistants into battle in order to remove the heads of the fallen enemies as trophies for the warriors to
show off during the triumphant return from battle. There are other speculations existing about the kubikiris
possible uses. Perhaps they were used by doctors or carried by high-ranking officials as a badge is worn today.
They could also have been used for cutting charcoal or incense, or used as an artistic tool for pruning bonsai
trees.[15]
Shobu: The shobu is a commonly found blade type that is very similar to the shinogi. It is sometimes found with a
groove running halfway up the blade.
Kogarasamaru: The kogarasamaru is a very rare blade type that appears to be a branch of the shinogi blade type.
The front third of the blade is double-edged.
Kissaki-moroha: The kissaki-moroha features an extremely long o-kissaki. This means that it is much longer than
the one shaku length of the average tant.
Unokubi: The unokubi is an uncommon tant that features a single sharpened edge and a flat back. There is
normally a short, wide groove extending to the midway point on the blade.
Hira: The hira is a tant form with no shinogi and a mune. It is extremely common due to the simplicity of its
design.
Hochogata: The hochogata is a tant form that is commonly described as a short, wide, hira. The hochogata was
one of the tant forms that Masamune (an ancient sword smith whose name has become legend) favored.
Katakiriha: The katakiriha is a tant form that has one side that is completely flat, while the other side turns at a
sharp angle to create a chisel-shaped blade.
Moroha: The moroha is a rare, double bladed tant type that has a diamond-shaped cross-section. The blade
tapers to a point and contains a shinogi that runs to the point.
Yoroi toshi or yoroi doshi, tant that have particularly thick cross-sections for armor-piercing duty.

Tant Koshirae
Aikuchi: The aikuchi is a tant koshirae where the fuchi is flush with the mouth of the saya. There is no tsuba on
this form of tant. Aikuchi normally have plain wood tsuka, and many forms of aikuchi have kashira that are
made from animal horns.
Hamidashi: The hamidashi is a tant koshirae that features a small tsuba.

Other tant
Kaiken tant: The kuaiken (also kwaiken or futokoro-gatana) is a generally short tant that is commonly carried
in aikuchi or shirasaya mounts. It was useful for self-defense indoors where the long katana and intermediate
wakizashi were inconvenient. Women carried them in the obi for self-defense and rarely for jigai (suicide). A
woman received a kaiken as part of her wedding gifts.
Fan Tant: The fan tant is a common tant with a blade entirely concealed within a fan-shaped scabbard. The
blade was usually low quality, as this tant was not designed to be a display piece, but rather a concealable dagger
Tant 111

useful for self-defense.

Yari Tant: Japanese spearheads were often altered so that it became possible to mount them as tant. Unlike
most blades, yari tant had triangular cross-sections.
Ken tanto: This is also not truly a tant, though it is often used and thought of as one. Ken were often used for
Buddhist rituals, and could be made from yari (Japanese spearheads) that were broken or cut shorter. They were
often given as offerings from sword smiths when they visited a temple. The hilt of the ken tant may be found
made with a vajra (double thunderbolt related to Buddhism).
Modern tant:Modern tactical knives have been made by knife makers Bob Lum, Phill Hartsfield, Ernest
Emerson, Allen Elishewitz, Bob Terzuola, Strider Knives, Benchmade, Spyderco, Severtech, Ka-Bar, SOG
Knives, and Cold Steel.[16] These "American Tant" designs feature a thick spine on the blade that goes from the
tang to the tip for increased tip strength.[17] The handle shape may be altered slightly to provide better
ergonomics.[14]

Use in martial arts

Tant with blunt wooden or blunt plastic blades are used to practice martial arts. Versions with a blunt metal blade
are used in more advanced training and in demonstrations. Martial arts that employ the tant include:
Aikido
Aikijutsu
Jujutsu
Koryu Bujutsu
Ninjutsu
Shorinji Kempo
Modern Arnis (taking place of dagger)

Gallery

Edo Period Japanese yari tant in Antique Japanese ken tant, Edo Period Japanese yari tant in Japanese kwaiken style tant.
koshirae. A yari (spear) double sided "ken" small sword koshirae. A yari (spear)
converted to use as a tant. "tant" in wood mounts converted to use as a tant.
"shirasaya".

Japanese tant disguised as a fan. Antique Japanese Edo period Japanese World War II police
tant mounted in the aikuchi type tant.
style.
Tant 112

References
[1] The samurai sword: a handbook, John M. Yumoto, Tuttle Publishing, 1989 P.47 (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=I__jerUaPkMC&
pg=PA47& dq=tanto+ short+ sword& hl=en& ei=hDctTsf_G8Pl0QGCwbzkDg& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=2&
ved=0CEUQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage& q=tanto short sword& f=true)
[2] Tanto (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20091023234204/ http:/ / geocities. com/ alchemyst/ tanto. htm)
[3] Handbook to life in medieval and early modern Japan, William E. Deal, Oxford University Press US, 2007 P.161 (http:/ / books. google.
com/ books?id=i0ni1NmbYe0C& pg=PA161& dq=tanto+ sword& hl=en& ei=NjMtTqL4GMnf0QGI36jkDg& sa=X& oi=book_result&
ct=result& resnum=4& ved=0CEgQ6AEwAw#v=onepage& q=tanto sword& f=true)
[4] The Development of Controversies: From the Early Modern Period to Online Discussion Forums, Volume 91 of Linguistic Insights. Studies in
Language and Communication, Author Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani, Publisher Peter Lang, 2008, ISBN 3-03911-711-4, ISBN
978-3-03911-711-6 P.150 (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=PtBci2GslUkC& pg=PA150& dq=nihonto+ refers+ to& hl=en& sa=X&
ei=RXWIT9_MEo2C8QT4_a3dCQ& ved=0CEkQ6AEwAg#v=onepage& q=nihonto refers to& f=false)
[5] The Complete Idiot's Guide to World Mythology, Complete Idiot's Guides, Authors Evans Lansing Smith, Nathan Robert Brown, Publisher
Penguin, 2008, ISBN 1-59257-764-4, ISBN 978-1-59257-764-4 P.144 (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=f-RsCs5dJRwC& pg=PA144&
dq=traditionally+ made+ a+ Japanese+ sword+ nihonto& hl=en& sa=X& ei=Sb-KT_X-MYX6tgeLnZDGCQ&
ved=0CG4Q6AEwBw#v=onepage& q=traditionally made a Japanese sword nihonto& f=false)
[6] Styles in the Shape of Blades (http:/ / www. ksky. ne. jp/ ~sumie99/ styles. html)
[7] Kaiken (http:/ / www. ksky. ne. jp/ ~sumie99/ kaiken. html)
[8] The Japanese sword, Kanzan Sat, Kodansha International, 1983 P.68 (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=vFS2iT8QjqEC& pg=PA68&
dq=daisho+ tanto& hl=en& ei=1kotToGdNs3ogQfNpvyPCw& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=1&
ved=0CD4Q6AEwAA#v=onepage& q=daisho tanto& f=true)
[9] Shotokan's Secret: The Hidden Truth Behind Karate's Fighting Origins, Bruce D. Clayton, Black Belt Communications, 2004 P106 (http:/ /
books. google. com/ books?id=BGxQeTMnPzQC& pg=PA106& dq=samurai+ daisho& hl=en& ei=lEYtTpHPAYLm0QGlyMzkDg& sa=X&
oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=48& ved=0CJsCEOgBMC8#v=onepage& q=samurai daisho& f=true)
[10] The Japanese sword, Kanzan Sat, Kodansha International, 1983 P.68 (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=vFS2iT8QjqEC& pg=PA68&
dq=daisho& hl=en& ei=rYAwTreXHsfqgQea5cTmCg& sa=X& oi=book_result& ct=result& resnum=10&
ved=0CFYQ6AEwCQ#v=onepage& q=daisho& f=true)
[11] Sat, Kanzan (1983). Joe Earle. ed. The Japanese sword; Volume 12 of Japanese arts library. Kodansha International. pp.6264.
ISBN978-0-87011-562-2.
[12] Sat (1983) p. 68
[13] Sinclaire, Clive (2004). Samurai: The Weapons and Spirit of the Japanese Warrior. Globe Pequot. p.59. ISBN978-1-59228-720-8.
[14] Steele, David (1981). "Japanese Daggers". Black Belt (Black Belt, Inc.) 19 (2): 5560.
[15] Unusual tant (http:/ / home. earthlink. net/ ~steinrl/ unji. htm)
[16] Pacella, Gerard (2002). 100 Legendary Knives. Krause Publications. pp.124126. ISBN978-0-87349-417-2.
[17] http:/ / faq. customtacticals. com/ geometry/ shape_amtanto. php

External links
Nihonto forum (http://www.militaria.co.za/nmb/index.php)
Japanese Sword Index and Visual Glossary (http://home.earthlink.net/~steinrl/glossary.htm)
 113

Major styles

Aikikai
Aikikai Foundation
( Zaidan Hjin Aikikai)

Also known as Aikikai; Aikikai Honbu

Date founded c.1940

Country of Japan
origin

Founder Morihei Ueshiba

( Ueshiba Morihei, December 14, 1883April 26, 1969)

Current head Moriteru Ueshiba

( Ueshiba Moriteru, born April 2, 1951)

Arts taught Aikido

Ancestor schools Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu Tenjin Shin'y-ry Yagy Shingan-ry

Descendant Ki Society
schools

Practitioners Steven Seagal, Kisaburo Osawa, Seiseki Abe, Yoshimitsu Yamada, Mitsunari Kanai, Nobuyoshi Tamura,
Isamu Takeshita, Christian Tissier, Seiichi Sugano

Official Site http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp

The Aikikai is the original school of Aikido. It is centered on the Aikikai Foundation in Japan, and its figurehead is
the Doshu (the family heir of the founder of Aikido). It is represented globally through the International Aikido
Federation.

Aikikai Foundation
The Aikikai Foundation ( Zaidan Hjin Aikikai) is the original aikido organisation. It is an
incorporated entity in Japan since 1940. It is headed by the doshu, the living successor of the founder of aikido. In its
name, Kai () simply means assembly or club.[1]
The Aikikai Foundation operates the Hombu dojo, which is also named Aikido World Headquarters. It is sometimes
called the Aikikai Hombu to distinguish it from the headquarters of later aikido organisations. It is located in Tokyo.
The term "Hombu" may sometimes be used loosely to refer to the upper echelons of instructors at Hombu dojo, or to
the Aikikai Foundation itself.
The Aikikai Foundation also manages one satellite dojo, the historical Iwama dojo in Ibaraki (about 100km
north-east of Tokyo).[2]
The Aikikai Foundation sends instructors around Japan on a continual basis.[3]
The Aikikai Foundation also has the business of issuing, throughout the world, certificates of grading and instructor
titles legitimated by the Doshu.
Aikikai 114

Doshu

Ueshiba Morihei

Ueshiba Kisshomaru

Ueshiba Moriteru

Doshu ( / / Dshu) literally translates as 'Master of the Way'. It is the title denoting the head of
the Aikikai. (While the same term could potentially also be used as a title within other disciplines, in Japanese its
most common meaning is specific to the Aikikai Foundation.)[1]
The system of having the heir of a martial arts school be the previous headmaster's son (either natural or adopted for
the sake of succession) was common in kory (traditional schools) and is referred to as iemoto. Other arts commonly
use the title Ske for the headmaster.[4]
Founder ( Kaiso) Morihei Ueshiba (lived 1883-1969) originated the art of Aikido. As such he was also the
first doshu, but is more commonly referred to as O'sensei (grand teacher).
Second Doshu ( ) Kisshomaru Ueshiba (lived 19211999) took over the leadership of the
organisation and assumed the title of doshu in 1969 upon the death of his father Morihei Ueshiba. Kisshomaru
was the first person in aikido to be widely referred to as Doshu. He was succeeded by his son Moriteru.
Third Doshu ( ) Moriteru Ueshiba (born 1951) is the current doshu. He is grandson of the founder of
aikido and assumed the title of doshu in 1999.[3]
Moriteru is expected to be succeeded as doshu by his son, Mitsuteru Ueshiba (born 1980),[5] who is currently
referred to as "Waka() Sensei".
Aikikai 115

Hombu dojo
The Hombu dojo in Tokyo is the headquarters of the
Aikikai.
The Hombu dojo is officially named Aikido World
Headquarters, and is entirely operated by the Aikikai
Foundation. It is sometimes called the Aikikai Hombu to
distinguish it from the headquarters of later aikido
organisations. Hombu ( honbu) is a common word
meaning "headquarters".

Hombu dojo has about 30 instructors, and most are

shihan. The instructors include the Doshu and Hiroshi
Aikikai Hombu Dojo
Tada 9th dan.[3]
The location of Hombu dojo is in Wakamatsu-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. (This same location was formerly the
Ushigome District of Shinjuku.)[3]
The dojo was established in April 1931 by the founder of Aikido. It was originally named Kobukan Dj
(, imperial warrior hall dojo) but was called "Hombu Dj" after World War II. [6]
In 1967 the original single-story wooden structure was replaced by a five story modern building. Training takes
place in three rooms which total about 250 tatami in area.[3] The main training area has 105 tatami mats (170m2).
The other two training areas, containing 72 and 42 tatami mats respectively, are often used for beginner's classes,
children's classes, women's classes, or fixed term and enrollment "academy" (Gakko) courses.
Classes are held seven days a week. Beginner's and regular classes are open to all Aikido practitioners that are or
become Aikikai members.[3]
A small number of students also reside in the dj as part of a live-in training program.

Aikikai school of Aikido

Within Japan, there are about 1800 other training locations affiliated
with the Hombu. These are united under the All-Japan Aikido
Federation. [7]
Overseas, there are about 100 foreign aikido organisations recognised
by the Hombu. These are ostensibly national aikido organisations that
each represent many dojos and many students. The gradings of
students in these organisations are legitimated specifically by the
Hombu. (The Hombu has procedures for examinations and
Doshu demonstrating Aikido to students from
recommendations of aikido grades and instructor titles, and ideally this around the globe, at the IAF Congress in Tanabe
ensures a degree of international consistency and serves to prevent (birthtown of O'sensei)
local instructors from boastfully exaggerating their own ranks.)
However, regardless of recognition, all foreign aikido groups remain organisationally independent from the Aikikai
Foundation.[3]

The students of recognised dojo worldwide are loosely referred to collectively as the Aikikai school of aikido,
although this "school" is not an official organisation. Their aikido technique may be referred to as Aikikai style,
although this encompasses a wider spectrum of technical styles characteristically than later (and smaller) schools of
aikido.
Aikikai 116

International Aikido Federation

The International Aikido Federation is the primary global aikido organisation. It is an umbrella organisation with
member organisations from more than 40 nations (for example, the All-Japan Aikido Federation is one member). All
members must be recognised by the Hombu, so the IAF exclusively represents the Aikikai school. The IAF is a
nominally democratic organisation but special roles are given to the Doshu and a council of senior instructors, to
safeguard the "technical and moral" integrity of aikido. The IAF currently admits only one member organisation per
country and gives each such member equal vote (it was modelled on the UN; it does not necessarily give every
Aikikai student equal representation). [8]
The IAF demonstrates aikido at the World Games, and represents aikido to the globe. The IAF also organises
International Aikido Congresses every four years, facilitating direct training between aikido students of different
countries, sharing instruction by the world's most senior aikido instructors, and also providing a channel for official
communication with the Hombu.
The IAF was formed in 1976. The IAF chair (1996present) is Peter Goldsbury, who is also a Professor of
comparative mythology at Hiroshima. Goldsbury publishes numerous aikido articles at AikiWeb.[9][10] The previous
chair was Giorgio Veneri.[11]

Aikikai style of aikido

Aikikai is not one style of aikido but instead encompasses a diversity of technical styles. This is associated with the
broad base of first generation instructors, who each had their own interpretation of the art, and other influences.
Nonetheless Aikikai is often described as a style for comparison with separate aikido organisations. Aikikai is
described as the most traditional; Aikikai has stayed loyal to the Ueshiba house and is sometimes called Ueshiba
Aikido. It has retained many of the aspects which Morihei Ueshiba valued, such as the non-competitive training
system (as contrasted with Tomiki's development). Spiritual interpretations are not emphasised compared to in Ki
Society.
Morihei Ueshiba's own style evolved significantly over his lifetime. The pre-war aikibudo techniques taught by
Morihei Ueshiba were generally closer to aikijujutsu whilst flowing technique was more emphasised as he became
older, and this is reflected in the aikido of people who studied at different periods in time.
Seiseki Abe said:
"As far as the Aikido [O'Sensei] practiced in his later years, even young girls, old people and children
could do [the techniques]. That is a big difference. I suppose you could say that it was a difference in the
severity or the strictness of the training. Before the war, it was severity and strong technique, as opposed
to the (kind of) techniques that invigorate our partners as we have now."[12]
Kazuo Chiba has implied that the style of training in Hombu concentrated less on physical rigor because of its
demographic:
"A large portion of the membership at Iwama Dojo consisted of local farmers, hard workers who spent
all day in the fields. They had thick bones and great physical strength, combined with a peculiar local
character known as Mito kishitsu, a type of manliness close to gallantry. Altogether, it was quite an
opposite culture from Hombu Dojo in Tokyo. Because it is in the capital of Japan, Hombus membership
consists of white-collar workers, intellectuals, businessmen, politicians and university students."[13]
Aikikai 117

References
[1] Denshi Jisho. Definition of: "doshu" - (http:/ / jisho. org/ words?jap=); "kai" - (http:/ / jisho. org/ words?eng=assembly+
club). (For the hiragana reading of , see Forvo (http:/ / fr. forvo. com/ word/ doshu_(_ )/ #ja).)
[2] Ibaraki branch dojo (http:/ / www13. big. or. jp/ ~aikikai/ ) main website.
[3] Aikikai Foundation (http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp) official website. Includes list of affiliated organisations (and associated regulations), and
current training timetables. Japanese version includes reports covering instructor travel, and details of current and past buildings.
[4] Japanese Wikipedia - Aikido (via Google Translate) (http:/ / translate. google. com. au/ translate?u=http:/ / ja. wikipedia. org/ wiki/
)
[5] Interview with Masaki Tani (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=104) aikidojournal.com
[6] History of Aikido (http:/ / www. aikidofaq. com/ history/ osensei. html), Aikido FAQ.
[7] Organisation diagram (http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp/ jpn/ organization0. htm) (Japanese), Aikikai Foundation. Note: page may not work in
Firefox.
[8] Questions answered by IAF chair Prof. Peter Goldsbury (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ forums/ viewtopic. php?p=5384), Aikido Journal.
[9] International Aikido Federation (http:/ / www. aikido-international. org/ ) official website. Includes list of member organisations, officials,
and meeting minutes. Also hosts an article reflecting (http:/ / www. aikido-international. org/ documents/ reflections. htm) on IAF history.
[10] AikiWeb (http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ ), a fount of aikido information. Particularly relevant are IAF chair Prof. Peter Goldsbury's articles in
the Columns section of the AikiWeb Forums.
[11] Interview with Giorgio Veneri by Simone Chierchini. Sportales.com/martial-arts/giorgio-veneri-my-point-of-view-on-traditional-aikido/
[12] Interview with Seiseki Abe (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=151) by Stanley Pranin (February 1982)
[13] T.K. Chiba, Memorial Address for Saito Sensei (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=308), Aikido Journal.

External links
"The travelling Aikidoka's guide to practice at Hombu Dojo" (http://www.guillaumeerard.com/en/aikido/
travels/guide-to-aikikai.html). Information and answers to frequently asked questions about travelling to Tokyo
in order to train at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo.
Kisshomaru Ueshiba 118

Kisshomaru Ueshiba
Kisshomaru Ueshiba

Born June 27, 1921

Ayabe, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

Died January 4, 1999 (aged77)

Tokyo, Japan

Nationality Japanese

Style Aikido

Teacher(s) Morihei Ueshiba

Children Moriteru Ueshiba

Kisshomaru Ueshiba ( Ueshiba Kisshmaru, June 27, 1921 January 4, 1999) was a prominent
Japanese master of aikido.[1] He was the son of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of aikido, and became the international
leader of aikido after his father's death.[1][2]

Early life
Ueshiba was born on June 27, 1921, in the city of Ayabe, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.[1][2][3] He was the third son and
fourth child of Morihei Ueshiba and Hatsu Ueshiba (ne Itokawa).[4][5] Ueshiba began training under his father
around 1937.[1]

Aikido career
In 1942, while he was still studying at Waseda University, Morihei Ueshiba (who was retiring to Iwama) appointed
him the head of the Kobukan Dojo in Shinjuku, Tokyo.[1] He saved the dojo from fire bombing several times during
the World War II.[1] Ueshiba graduated with a degree in economics in 1946.[1]
Speaking about the period just after World War II, Moriteru Ueshiba said, "there was not yet much activity at the
Hombu Dojo. For a time my father [Kisshomaru Ueshiba] was actually in Iwama instead ... starting around 1949, he
worked for about seven years at a company called Osaka Shoji. He had no other choice. Even if you have a dojo, you
can't make a living if nobody is coming to train, which was largely the case after the war. So, he took a job as an
ordinary company employee during the day and taught only in the mornings and evenings."[6]
Kisshomaru Ueshiba 119

Beginning in 1948, Ueshiba oversaw the development of the Aikikai Honbu organization (and eventually the tearing
down of the Kobukan Dojo in 1967 to construct the Aikikai headquarters).

Later life
After Morihei Ueshiba's death in 1969, Kisshomaru Ueshiba took on the mantle of Doshu (hereditary head).[1][2][3][7]
In 1995, Ueshiba received the Zui Hosho Medal from the Japanese government.[3] By 1998, Ueshiba's health had
declined and this necessitated visits to hospital.[2]
Ueshiba died around 5:30 PM on January 4, 1999, in a Tokyo hospital.[1][2] The cause of death was respiratory
failure.[8] As his father was the first Doshu, he was the second Doshu, and after his death, his son Moriteru Ueshiba
became the third Doshu, following the iemoto system.

Publications
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, A Life in Aikido: The Biography of Founder Morihei Ueshiba (2008), Kodansha
International, ISBN 978-4-7700-2617-0 [9]
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, The Art of Aikido: Principles and Essential Techniques (2004) Kodansha International,
ISBN 978-4-7700-2945-4 [10]
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Best Aikido: The Fundamentals (2002) Kodansha International, ISBN 978-4-7700-2762-7
[11]
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, The Spirit of Aikido (1987), Kodansha International, ISBN 978-0-87011-850-0 [12]
Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Aikido (1985), Japan Publications Trading, ISBN 978-0-87040-629-4

References
[1] Pranin, S. A. (c. 2009): Encyclopedia of Aikido: Ueshiba, Kisshomaru (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=720)
Retrieved on March 1, 2010.
[2] Goldsbury, P. (1999): Obituary: Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba (http:/ / aikido-international. org/ index. php?Itemid=35& id=12&
option=com_content& task=view) Retrieved on March 2, 2010.
[3] Aikikai Foundation: Doshu chronology (http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp/ eng/ doshu. htm) Retrieved on February 28, 2010.
[4] Dang, P. T., & Seiser, L. (2006): Advanced Aikido (p. 3). Tokyo: Tuttle. (ISBN 978-0-8048-3785-9)
[5] Pranin, S. A. (1993): Morihei Ueshiba & Kisshomaru Ueshiba (http:/ / omlc. ogi. edu/ aikido/ talk/ osensei/ bio/ mori3. html) Retrieved on
March 11, 2010.
[6] Pranin, S. A. (1999): Interview with Moriteru Ueshiba (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=99) Retrieved on February 28,
2010.
[7] Dang, P. T., & Seiser, L. (2003): Aikido basics (p. 22). Boston, MA: Tuttle. (ISBN 978-0-8048-3490-2)
[8] Obituary - Doshu Kisshomaru (http:/ / www. aikido-international. org/ index. php?option=com_content& view=article& id=12:obituary&
catid=15:aikido-iaf& Itemid=29) Written by Peter Goldsbury, 1 February 1999
[9] http:/ / www. kodansha-intl. com/ books/ html/ en/ 9784770026170. html
[10] http:/ / en. wikipedia. org/ w/ index. php?title=Kisshomaru_Ueshiba& action=edit
[11] http:/ / www. kodansha-intl. com/ books/ html/ en/ 9784770027627. html
[12] http:/ / www. kodansha-intl. com/ books/ html/ en/ 9780870118500. html
Iwama ryu 120

Iwama ryu
Iwama Style is the style of aikido that was taught at Iwama dojo (in Iwama) by the founder of aikido, Morihei
Ueshiba, and especially the lineage passed on through Morihiro Saito, a close disciple who was given responsibility
over Iwama dojo by Ueshiba.[1]
It is also known by many names. These include Iwama-ry ( where ry is the Japanese term for a style or
school), Iwama Style ( where "style" was transliterated into Japanese from English). It is often
associated with the term Takemusu after the martial concept. It is sometimes also referred to as Traditional or
Dent ( , lit. traditional).
It is also called Saito style, though never by Iwama stylists themselves as Saito-shihan insisted that he intended to
preserve the founder's style.[2][3]

Ranks
At one point Saito-shihan gave out specific "Iwama-ryu" ranks[4] at the insistence of his European students.
However, he always awarded ranks through the Aikikai out of respect for the Ueshiba family.[5]
Saito-shihan also gave out mokuroku (scrolls) for his aiki-ken and aiki-jo with levels loosely modeled after the
traditional license system of classical Japanese martial arts.[6]
Today, Iwama style aikido organisations can be found both within and outside of the Aikikai.
The main non-Aikikai branch is Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai, founded by Morihiro Saito's son Hitohiro Saito.
It continues to issue Iwama Ryu grading certificates.[4]
Many of Saito's longest students have remained affiliated with Aikikai. In Europe some of these groups belong to the
Takemusu Aikido Kyokai umbrella organisation.[7] In the US, the Takemusu Aikido Association is an Aikikai
organization that practices Iwama-style Aikido.[8]

History
Some years ago, the distribution of Iwama style dojos was more abundant in some countries, such as the
Scandinavian countries. The existence of this organization was reflected in the organization of aikido in some
countries, such as Sweden, where there were three committees for the different types of aikido within the Budo
Federation - Iwama-ry, Ki-aikido, and Aikikai. Despite this, Iwama Ryu was never officially declared an
organization independent of the Aikikai, and it can be regarded as a rather informal network.
The highest Iwama Ryu ranks Saito ever awarded are 7th dan given to only Paolo Corallini [9] and Ulf Evens;[5]
they also held title of shihan in this style, and were authorised to grant Iwama Ryu dan ranks.[5] Currently, other
Iwama ryu students including William Witt are also ranked 7th dan.
Some instructors including Bernice Tom, Mark Larson, Wolfgang Baumgartner, and Pat Hendricks were awarded
the "menkyo kaiden" (teaching certificate) in the Iwama-style forms of aiki-ken and jo. Others were awarded levels 1
- 4 of the certification based on exams given annually by Saito Shihan.
In 1990 Saito Morihiro Sensei, on a seminar in Turin, Italy publicly declared that Paolo Corallini Shihan would be
the sole person authorized to conduct Iwama Ryu exams (directly or by delegation) in substitution of him, by saying
that while he was not in Europe, he would be substituted only by Paolo Corallini [9] in grading Iwama Ryu.
Later on other senior instructors have been appointed as Saito-shihan's representatives in their countries.
Iwama ryu 121

Style
Iwama style includes the combined study (riai) of traditional Japanese weapons (bukiwaza), specifically Aiki-j
(staff) and Aiki-ken (sword), and of empty-handed aikido (taijutsu).[10][11] Iwama practitioners often claim that their
aikido is closest to that of the founder, as preserved by Morihiro Saito. Much of this claim is based on photos taken
from the Noma Dojo and a technical manual written by the founder.[12]
Among non-Iwama practitioners, a common opinion is that Iwama style mainly is Morihei Ueshiba's aikido of the
1940s and 1950s not taking into consideration his later years; this viewpoint is considered to be too simplistic by
Iwama-style practitioners.

Pedagogy
Whether taught at an Aikikai or Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai school, Iwama style Aikido tends to be highly
codified. Weapons training, including kata, is stressed. Techniques are generally practiced first from a static grab and
footwork is often broken up into numbered steps.[13] In addition weapons work involves many repetitions of
suburi[14] and paired practice is practiced with a pause between each movement until students are relatively
advanced.
A great deal of emphasis is placed on a stable hanmi or stance in Iwama style aikido.[15] To this end uke will often
test nage's stance by pushing against nage in a number of directions during a pin or during a pause in static practice
of a technique. Also, footwork is often practiced at the start of class and exercises pairing footwork with weapons is
common (e.g. happo-giri)
Every class in a Iwama style dojo begins with tai-no-henko and morotedori kokyuu-ho and ends with
kokyuu-dosa.[10]

Progression
Saito-shihan believed in a progression from static techniques to the spontaneous takemusu aiki. Many Iwama style
practitioners practice in stages,[16] most often divided into:
1. Kihon (basic/foundational) or Katai (static) practice
2. Yawarakai or Jutai (soft, flowing movement)
3. Ki-no-nagare (lit. the flow of ki)

Technical characteristics
While most aikido practitioners stress a vertical posture, Iwama stylists practice with the hip tucked to allow the back
leg's power to be better exerted (see the Yoshinkan's kamae). Though the back should be kept straight and the center
of mass kept between the legs, this creates an impression of leaning forward. The neck is ideally also kept relatively
straight. Also, while a number of aikido styles practice with the hips square the front, Iwama stylists often have their
hips slightly rotated. This is because the feet are still kept on a line, but the front foot points forward rather than
turned out (in contrast to the Yoshinkan). In jo work, the posture of hito-emi, or standing with a dramatically
minimized profile facing the opponent, is stressed.
Iwama style Aikido has a large number of diverse kokyu nage codified that give it a large technical repertoire
compared to most styles of Aikido. There is also a strong emphasis on the use of atemi during techniques.[17]
Many techniques, especially techniques that begin from shomen-uchi, start with nage initiating a strike to uke in the
most basic form of the technique. This was taught by the Founder and is discussed in his book "budo. It is common
with Yoshinkan and Michio Hikitsuchi's basic practice, but opposite of how most other styles of Aikido teach the
techniques. Once this variation is mastered, students may also practice with uke striking, though it is emphasized that
tori is initiating the encounter. Saito-shihan referred to this as the "way of the mountain echo" (yamabiko no michi),
Iwama ryu 122

presumably after a poem by the founder.[18]

Iwama stylists employ kiai with great consistency.[19]
Koshi-nage in Iwama style aikido is always performed with the hips perpendicular to the uke and the hips acting as a
fulcrum.[10]
In ukemi Iwama practitioners will usually attempt to parry the atemi being thrown by nage, which may or may not be
encouraged in other styles of aikido.

Buki-waza
The sword forms of Iwama style are generally recognized as being descended from Kashima Shinto-ryu sword
techniques. In particular the first two kumitachi are nearly identical in the sequence of cuts to forms from Kashima
Shinto-ryu.[20]

Suwari-Waza
Suwari-waza (seated techniques) in Iwama-style is always started completely in seiza. This is in contrast to most
other styles where the practitioners often start already on their toes (kiza).

Ara-Waza and Henka-Waza

Ara-waza, literally coarse techniques, are occasionally practiced by Iwama style Aikido practitioners. These
techniques are intended to explicitly show the more vicious applications hidden in Aikido technique and include
simple kicks targeting the knees and entangling or twisting joints during throws with the intent to break them. Some
henka-waza (modified basic techniques) in Iwama style Aikido also include entangling joints, locking large joints,
strikes to vital points, and occasionally chokes using the arm or the partner's dogi. As Aikido practitioners are
usually not skilled in choking techniques these are never performed fully for safety reasons.

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley (2006). "Iwama-Style Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=315). The Encyclopedia of
Aikido. Aikido Journal. . Retrieved September 2010.
[2] Pranin, Stanley, Remembering Morihiro Saito Sensei (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=187), Aikido Journal, , retrieved
April 13, 2012
[3] Pranin, Stanley (1996), "Is O-Sensei Really the Father of Modern Aikido?" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=34), Aikido
Journal 109, , retrieved April 14, 2012
[4] Saito, Hitohiro (September 2004), Statement of the Iwama Shinshin Aiki Shuren Kai Kaicho (http:/ / www. iwama-ryu-tr. org/ eng/ statement.
html), , retrieved April 13, 2012
[5] "Saito Morihiro Shihan" (http:/ / www. taais. com/ morihiro_saito_shihan_eng. htm). Takemusu Aikido Association Israel. . Retrieved April
14, 2012.
[6] Kimura, Ikuko (2002). "Interview with Pat Hendricks" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=245). Aikido Journal. . Retrieved
April 13, 2012.
[7] "Takemusu Aikido Kyokai Website" (http:/ / takemusuaikidokyokai. org). .
[8] "Takemusu Aikido Association Website" (http:/ / www. takemusu. org/ ). .
[9] http:/ / www. taai. it/ index. php?option=com_content& view=article& id=53& Itemid=56& lang=en
[10] Pranin, Stanley (1974), "Interview with Bill Witt" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=563), Aiki News 6, , retrieved April
16, 2012
[11] Pranin, Stanley; Dan Palmer (1994). "Morihei Ueshiba & Morihiro Saito" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=210). Aikido
Journal 101. . Retrieved April 14, 2012.
[12] http:/ / blog. aikidojournal. com/ 2012/ 03/ 19/ the-iwama-aikido-conundrum-by-stanley-pranin/
[13] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=562& highlight=morihiro+ saito
[14] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=374
[15] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=95
[16] http:/ / www. takemusuaikido. nl/ mediapool/ 75/ 753465/ data/ 4_levels_4_corners. pdf
[17] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=82& highlight=morihiro+ saito
Iwama ryu 123

[18] http:/ / shoshin. over-blog. com/ article-yamabiko-no-michi-90247157. html

[19] http:/ / aikido-france. net/ articles/ saito5/
[20] http:/ / www. koryu. com/ library/ mskoss3. html

External links
Iwama Shin Shin Aiki Shurenkai (http://www.iwamaaikido.com)
Takemusu Aikido Kyokai (http://www.takemusuaikidokyokai.org/)
Takemusu Aikido Association (http://www.takemusu.org)

Iwama dojo
Iwama is an important historical location from the development of Aikido. The former town has a famous dojo built
by the founder of aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, who lived there from 1942 until his death in 1969. It has become "a
Mecca to the aikido community."[1][2] This dojo is also where Morihiro Saito, one of the founder's closest students,
learned and taught aikido from 1946 until 2002. The lineage of aikido that has been passed on through Saito is highly
acclaimed.[2] It is often referred to as Iwama Style.
Iwama was a small farming village in Japan, located 100km north-east of Tokyo and at the centre of Ibaraki
prefecture. Iwama was annexed into the City of Kasama in 2006 (dissolving Nishiibaraki County, which had
previously contained Iwama Town). The original Iwama aikido dojo, Aiki Shrine and the neighbouring Tanrenkan
are now addressed in the Yoshioka district of Kasama city, Ibaraki.[1]
The Iwama dojo was significantly damaged in the 2011 earthquake. The Aiki Shrine and other dojos in former
Iwama Town were also affected by the disaster.[3]

The Ibaraki Dojo

The Ibaraki Branch Dojo ( Ibaraki Shibu Dojo), also known as the Ibaraki Dojo or the
Shibu Dojo, is a small aikido dojo, run by the Aikikai Foundation.[1]
The land on which the dojo and shrine were built was first purchased by Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of aikido, in
1940. In 1943 he built the first part of the current Aiki Jinja and an "outdoor dojo" where he lived a life of "Buno
Ichinyo" (the union of agriculture and budo).[1] This dojo was completed in 1945 and was originally called The Aiki
Shuren Dojo ( , lit. harmonising drill dojo).[1] At first the dojo did not include tatami mats, and
students received training directly upon the wooden floor.[4] Eventually 24 mats were installed. The dojo was later
moved to the present day location and expanded to 60 mats.
Saito Morihiro Shihan was the caretaker and chief instructor at the Iwama Dojo after the Founder passed away. After
Saito Shihan passed on, the dojo was renamed the Ibaraki Branch Dojo with Moriteru Ueshiba as Dojo Chief and
Hiroshi Isoyama 8th dan as Acting Dojo Chief and Senior Instructor.[1] Isoyama first began training at The Aiki
Shuren Dojo in 1949, at age 12.[4] The current Acting Dojo Chief is Mitsuteru Ueshiba while Isoyama remains as
chief instructor and Executive Advisor.[1]
On the 11th March 2011, the dojo was severely damaged by an earthquake and rendered unusable. Aikido practice
continued in the Aiki Shrine from the 14th of March until the 17th of September, 2011 when the newly repaired dojo
reopened for training.[1]
The Ibaraki Branch Dojo has ten instructors and general training is held once every day of the week for regular
students while live-in students ( uchi deshi ) practise three times per day in addition to carrying out other
duties such as maintaining the dojo and shrine precincts.[5]
Iwama dojo 124

Aiki Jinja
Aiki Jinja ( ) is the shrine built by Morihei Ueshiba in Iwama in honor of the deities of aikido.[6] (Jinja
is the Japanese term for a shrine.) The shrine grounds include the Ibaraki Branch dojo (training hall).
The first part of the shrine building (the Honden, housing the dieties of aikido) was built in the 1940s. The second
bigger part (the Haiden) was erected in front of the Honden in 1962. Both parts were renovated by the Saito family
in 2001-2002 with the approval of Dshu Moriteru Ueshiba. This renovation also included a fence set up around the
compound, and a huge stone with the carvings "Aiki Jinja" designed by Seiseki Abe, a master of both calligraphy
and Aikido, who was also the calligraphy teacher of Morihei Ueshiba. A large statue of the founder of aikido was
erected in the shrine grounds and unveiled on the 8th of November 2009. Surplus material from this monument was
used to make a bust of the Founder which was unveiled at the newly rebuilt Iwama Station on the 24th of July
2012.[5]
The Torii gate and Honden were damaged during the Great Tohoku Earthquake.[5] The relatively unscathed Haiden
was used for aikido training while the dojo was unusable.[1]
When Morihei Ueshiba was alive, once a month he would preside over what was initially a very small religious
ceremony in the Aiki Jinja called Tsukinamisai ( ), which lasted up to an hour. Food offerings of fruits,
vegetables, and fish - but no red meat - adorned the kamidana.[7] Eventually, the Saito family took responsibility for
hosting the ceremony every month on the 14th. Later, a small party with all the uchi deshi (resident students) and the
Saito family was held inside the old dojo. This tradition is kept up by current Dshu Moriteru Ueshiba.
Every year on April 29 (the start of the Japanese Golden Week holiday), the annual shrine festival is held by Oomoto
priests in commemoration of Ueshiba's death on April 26, 1969. Through the years, the Saito family developed this
event, transforming it into a very big day for the small town of Iwama. Hundreds of Aikido practitioners come to
Iwama to participate in the event. A religious celebration is held inside the shrine and ancient music is played.
Before finishing, a small ritual demonstration of Aikido called a hn embu ( ) is held.[8] To finish, all
of the visitors are invited to a huge lunch in the dojo compounds.

Tanrenkan
Tanrenkan ( , which means "Hardening Hall") is an aikido training hall run by Hitohiro Saito, who is the
son of Morihiro Saito. It is the main dojo of the Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-Kai organisation.[9] The Tanrenkan
was built in 2000 on Saito family land and exists independantly of the original Iwama dojo.[10]
Hitohiro's organisation was formed as a reaction to political friction between Morihiro Sait (who had been
designated by the founder as caretaker of the shrine and the instructor responsible for the training at the dojo) and the
founder's organisation, the Aikikai (Ueshiba's organization, inheritors of the dojo and shrine, of which Morihiro
Saito was a senior member), in particular the Aikikai's reassertion of control of the facilities upon Sait's death in
2002. However, some of Sait's other followers (most notably the three that Sait had promoted to 7th dan, William
Witt,Paolo Corallini and Ulf Evens) have remained affiliated with Aikikai.[11]
It is generally not permitted to train at both Tanrenkan and at Aikikai Ibaraki branch.
Iwama dojo 125

Other Iwama dojo

There are also other aikido dojos in former-Iwama:
Shin-Shin Aiki Juku ( ) is located 700 metres south-east from Tanrenkan.[9]
Nisshinkan is a small dojo operated by Nemoto Hiroki (Aikikai 6th dan) next to his "Aiki House" student
accommodation.[12]
There is also aikido at Iwama Budokan (Martial Arts Hall).[13] It is located at Iwama Junior High School, 1.3km
north-east from the founder's dojo. It is used by Watahiki (Ibaraki Branch),[14] Nemoto[12] and ISSASK.[9]

References
[1] Ibaraki branch dojo (http:/ / www13. big. or. jp/ ~aikikai/ ) main website. Contains a section describing the history and significance.
[2] Stanley Pranin, Iwama: Birthplace of Aikido (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=62), Aikido Journal. The full article also
contains the phrase "Aikido Mecca".
[3] News from Iwama following the earthquake (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ blog/ 2011/ 03/ 14/
news-from-iwama-following-the-japan-earthquake-by-stanley-pranin/ ), Aikido Journal blog.
[4] Interview with Hiroshi Isoyama (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=102), Aikido Journal.
[5] Ibaraki branch (http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp/ eng/ ibaragi/ ibaragi. htm), Aikikai Foundation (official website).
[6] (Japanese) / (http:/ / www. city. kasama. lg. jp/ kankou/ 05taiken/ cnt/ aikido. html) Kasama, Ibaraki
government
[7] A Day in the Life of the Founder Morihei Ueshiba, April 1968 (http:/ / www. nippon-kan. org/ senseis_articles/ day-in-the-life. html) By
Gaku Homma Sensei
[8] Aikikai Foundation Ibaraki Branch Dojo (http:/ / www13. big. or. jp/ ~aikikai/ e_new. html)
[9] Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai (http:/ / www. iwamaaikido. com/ english/ ) official website
[10] aiki.com.au/Hitohiro (http:/ / www. aiki. com. au/ Hitohiro/ index. html)
[11] Takemusu Aikido Kyokai (http:/ / www. takemusuaikidokyokai. org/ ) official website.
[12] Nemoto Sensei (http:/ / www. nemotosensei. com/ pages/ en/ index. html), official website. See "Keiko" for locations.
[13] An Iwama aikido blog (http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ blogs/ an-iwama-juku-aikiblog-7077/ )
[14] Iwama Aikido Children's Group (http:/ / www. aikido. ne. jp/ dojo/ ibaraki. html), Iwama-Machi Aikido Supootsu Shonendan (
).

External links
(http://www.aikido-nipponkan-japan.com/
06-30.html) Nippon Kan
Morihiro Saito 126

Morihiro Saito
Morihiro Saito
Sait
Morihiro
Born March 31, 1928
Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

Died May 13, 2002 (aged74)

of cancer

Nationality Japanese

Style Aikido

Teacher(s) Morihei Ueshiba

Rank Shihan, 9th dan

Morihiro Saito ( Sait Morihiro, March 31, 1928May 13, 2002) was a teacher of the Japanese
martial art of aikido, with many students around the world. Saito's practice of aikido spanned 56 years, from the age
of 18, when he first met aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba, until his death in 2002.[1]

Early life
Morihiro Saito was born in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, on 31 March 1928. Growing up in a poor farming village in the
1930s and early 40s, he recounted having the same interest in historical heroes such as Yagy Jbei Mitsuyoshi and
Goto Matabe as most other Japanese boys. In the Japanese schools at that time, the martial arts of kendo and judo
were taught to students, and Saito chose to study kendo.[2]
In the years immediately following the end of World War II, the carrying of weapons of any kind, as well the
practice of martial arts, was prohibited by the GHQ. As a result, Saito felt he should study some kind of unarmed
self-defense technique, and began training in Shinto-ry karate at the Shudokan in Meguro. After a short time, his
work with the Japanese National Railways transferred him to Iwama, and he was forced to find other martial arts
training. Thinking judo would be a useful complement to his kendo and karate skills, he began training at a judo dojo
in Ishioka. In the summer of 1946, however, Saito heard stories about an "old man doing strange techniques up on
the mountain near Iwama." It seemed that people were confused about what martial art, exactly, this old man was
practicing, but one judo instructor said the man was teaching "Ueshiba-ry Judo."[2]

Meeting aikido's founder

By July 1946, the GHQ-imposed ban upon the practice of martial arts had forced Morihei Ueshiba into an official
"retirement" from practice for several years. Ueshiba took this opportunity to seclude himself in the small town of
Iwama, and was engaged in the practice of ascetic training (shugy), and some believe that it was during this period
that Ueshiba was perfecting the practice of aikido.[3]
It was at this time, at the age of 18, that Saito joined Ueshiba for training, which already included then live-in
students Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Koichi Tohei, and Tadashi Abe. This early training was quite brutal, but after
persevering for several years, Saito became one of Ueshiba's closest students. Much credit is given to the fortuitous
work schedule Saito had with the Japanese National Railways, where Saito worked 24 hours on, 24 hours off. As a
result, Saito was often the sole training partner of Ueshiba, and had the unique opportunity to train with Ueshiba in
the practice of the sword and short staff, which occurred early each morning before the other students arrived.[3]
Morihiro Saito 127

Training
Training at the Iwama dojo consisted of a great deal of farmwork. The life of the full-time live in students consisted
of prayer each morning before sunrise, two meals of rice porridge each day, and training interspersed with copious
amounts of work on the farm. As a result of Saito's 24 hours on, 24 hours off, position with the National Railway
meant that he would train and live as a live-in student only every other 24 hours. Eventually, the other live-in
students moved away, and when Saito returned from work, he would train alone with Ueshiba.[4]
Although other students such as Koichi Tohei trained with Ueshiba for more years than Saito did, Saito's work
allowed him to train almost as an uchideshi, for long periods as the only student.
From 1946 until Ueshibas passing in 1969, Saito served as Ueshiba's assistant in a variety of ways at Iwama while
his wife served Mrs. Ueshiba. During Saitos period as a deshi he taught classes in the Iwama dojo.

Ueshiba's death
Before his death Ueshiba gave Morihiro Saito the responsibility of carrying on the teaching at the Iwama dojo and
also the position of caretaker of the Aiki Jinja located in Iwama.

Training methodology and philosophy

Saito's instruction of aikido is particularly remembered for its emphasis upon the basics of aikido, and especially
upon the relationship between the armed and unarmed aspects of the art.[5]
Kazuo Chiba, a live-in student (uchideshi) of Ueshiba at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, recalled in particular the
intensity of the training that occurred at the Iwama dojo,

A large portion of the membership at Iwama Dojo consisted of local farmers, hard workers who spent all day in the fields. They had thick
bones and great physical strength, combined with a peculiar local character known as Mito kishitsu, a type of manliness close to gallantry.
Altogether, it was quite an opposite culture from Hombu Dojo in Tokyo. Because it is in the capital of Japan, Hombus membership consists of
white-collar workers, intellectuals, businessmen, politicians and university students.
Any members who came to visit Iwama Dojo from Hombu must have looked pale and weak from city living to Iwama members. Indeed, the
Iwama students treated us from Hombu as such and challenged us vigorously. It was a matter of survival for members from Hombu Dojo,
including Hombu uchideshi like myself. And Saito Sensei was on top of that mountain, which we had to climb with all our might.
[6]

Chiba also emphasized Saito's focus upon katai-keiko ( ), or vigorous practice without holding back,
which Ueshiba taught and Saito demonstrated in his methods of teaching and practice. Apparently, this rigorous
training with Saito, which Ueshiba would often observe, also included intense conditioning exercises, as well as
general farmwork that students at the Iwama dojo were expected to assist with.[6]
Other students of Saito attest to his commitment to carry on Ueshiba's legacy, and to follow and preserve Ueshiba's
teachings as Saito had learned them.[7] Saito believed that striking techniques (atemi) are a "vital element" of aikido,
and also that the principles of swordsmanship formed the basis of aikido techniques. He also advocated training to
cope with the attacks of other martial arts, such as the kicks practiced in karate.[8]
According to Saito's son, Hitohiro Saito, Saito believed that the basis of all empty-handed, sword, and staff
techniques was the mastery of aikido's basic posture (hanmi). Saito believed that once the correct posture was
mastered, the next step was to develop a proper kiai (sometimes translated as "spirit shout").[9]
Morihiro Saito 128

Legacy
In the beginning of the 1970s, aikido students from outside Japan began traveling to Iwama to train under Saito.
Later they would return to their native countries to teach what they had learned. There were also a small number of
Japanese students of Saito who travelled abroad to teach Aikido, such as Takayasu-shihan.
The kind of aikido that Saito's students do is often referred to as Iwama aikido or Iwama style. In the West, Saito,
along with many of his students, formed a dan-ranking network of dojos called Iwama Ryu, with ranks received
directly from Saito rather than or in addition to those from the Aikikai although Saito never left that organization.

Saito family line

After Saito's death, his son Hitohiro formed the independent Shinshin Aikishuren Kai ( ).
Some of the Iwama Ryu network dojos joined Hitohiro while others including some of Saito's longest students chose
to remain affiliated with the Aikikai.
Hitohiro had already been the main instructor at Iwama dojo. Like the Aikikai Doshu, he does not claim a dan rank.

Senior (6th and 7th Dan) Direct Students

Country Name Rank

Australia Saburo Takayasu (shihan) 7th dan[10]

France Philippe Voarino [11]

6th Dan

Italy Paolo Corallini (shihan) [12]

7th Dan

Japan Hiroki Nemoto [13]

6th Dan

Netherlands Lewis Bernaldo de Quiros 6th Dan[14]

Philippines Dennis Tatoian [15]

7th Dan

Portugal Tristo da Cunha [16]

7th dan

Sweden Ulf Evens (shihan) [17]

7th Dan

United Kingdom Tony Sargeant [18]

6th Dan

United States William Witt (shihan) [19]

7th Dan

United States Hans Goto [20]

7th Dan

United States Patricia Hendricks [21]

7th Dan
Morihiro Saito 129

Published works

Books
Saito, Morihiro (September, 1973). Traditional Aikido, VOL.1. Minato Research & Publishing Company.
ISBN0-87040-266-8.
Saito, Morihiro (December, 1973). Traditional Aikido, VOL.2. Minato Research & Publishing Company.
ISBN0-87040-267-6.
Saito, Morihiro (July, 1974). Traditional Aikido, VOL.3. Minato Research & Publishing Company.
ISBN0-87040-287-0.
Saito, Morihiro (October, 1974). Traditional Aikido, VOL.4. Minato Research & Publishing Company.
ISBN0-87040-288-9.
Saito, Morihiro (March, 1976). Traditional Aikido, VOL.5. Minato Research & Publishing Company.
ISBN0-87040-372-9.
Saito, Morihiro (December 1984). Aikido: Its Heart and Appearance. Cheng & Tsui. ISBN978-0-88727-040-6.
Saito, Morihiro (1994). Takemusu Aikido. Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-16-1.
Saito, Morihiro (1997). Takemusu Aikido, Volume 4: Kokyunage. Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-24-2.
Saito, Morihiro (1999). Takemusu Aikido Special Edition: Budo (Commentary on the 1938 Training Manual of
Morihei Ueshiba). Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-56-0.
Saito, Morihiro (2001). Takemusu Aikido, Volume 5: Bukidori & Ninindori. Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-61-7.
Saito, Morihiro (2007). Takemusu Aikido, Volume 2: More Basics. Aiki News. ISBN4-900586-20-X.

Film
Saito, Morihiro (2003). Aiki Ken (DVD). Aikido Journal.
Saito, Morihiro (2003). Aiki Jo (DVD). Aikido Journal.
Saito, Morihiro (2005). Morihiro Saito: The Lost Seminars, Part 1-6 (DVD). Aikido Journal.
Saito, Morihiro (200?). Saito Sensei Paris 2000 pt. 1-4 (DVD). Aikishop.com.
Saito, Morihiro. 1990 U.S.A. West Coast Tour (DVD). Firelight Films.

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Saito, Morihiro" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=565). Encyclopedia of Aikido. . Retrieved
2007-08-04.
[2] Pranin, Stanley (December 1978). "Interview with Morihiro Saito (1978)" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=199). Aiki
News 32. . Retrieved 2007-08-06.
[3] Pranin, Stanley; Dan Palmer (1994). "Morihei Ueshiba & Morihiro Saito" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=210). Aikido
Journal 101. . Retrieved 2007-08-07.
[4] Pranin, Stanley (Fall/Winter 1996). "Morihiro Saito Celebrates 50 Years in Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=32).
Aikido Journal 109. . Retrieved 2007-08-08.
[5] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Iwama-Style Aikido" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=315). Encyclopedia of Aikido. .
Retrieved 2007-08-07.
[6] Chiba, T.K. (2002). "Remembering Morihiro Saito Sensei" (http:/ / aikido-france. net/ articles/ chiba/ ). Biran, the Aikido Journal of
Birankai/USAF-Western Region. . Retrieved 2007-08-06.
[7] Pranin, Stanley (2007). "Remembering Morihiro Saito Sensei" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=187). Aikido Journal. .
Retrieved 2007-08-06.
[8] Pranin, Stanley (1991). "Interview with Morihiro Saito" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=82). Aiki News 88. . Retrieved
2007-08-07.
[9] Tanaka, Sonoko (1998). "Interview with Hitohiro Saito" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=95). Aikido Journal 113. .
Retrieved 2007-08-13.
[10] "Saburo Takayasu Bio" (http:/ / www. aikidoaus. com. au/ takemusu-aiki/ saburo-takayasu-sensei/ ). .
[11] "Philippe Voarino Bio" (http:/ / www. aikidotakemusu. org/ fr/ articles/ philippe-voarino-7eme-dan). .
[12] "Paolo Carallini Bio" (http:/ / www. taai. it/ index. php?option=com_content& view=article& id=53& Itemid=56& lang=en). .
Morihiro Saito 130

[13] "Hiroki Nemoto Bio" (http:/ / www. nemotosensei. com/ pages/ en/ nemoto. html). .
[14] "Lewis Bernaldo de Quiros Bio" (http:/ / traditionalaikido. eu/ EN/ teacher. asp). .
[15] http:/ / www. traditional-aikido. com/ dojo_sensei. htm
[16] "Tristo da Cunha Bio" (http:/ / www. aikishurendojo. org/ mestretristaocunha. php/ ). .
[17] "Ulf Evens Bio" (http:/ / www. aikido. lt/ ?page=uevenas& lang=en). .
[18] "Tony Sargeant bio" (http:/ / poole-aikido. com/ iwama-aikido/ ). .
[19] "Bill Witt Bio" (http:/ / www. aikidosiliconvalley. com/ instructors/ Witt. html). Aikido Silicon Valley. .
[20] "Hans Goto Bio" (http:/ / www. baymarinaikido. com/ pages/ sensei. html). Marin Bay Aikido. .
[21] "Pat Hendricks Bio" (http:/ / www. aikido-sanleandro. com/ aboutsensei. html#hendrickssensei). Aikido of San Leandro. .

External links
http://www.saitosensei.com
http://www.takemusu.org

Ki-Aikido
Ki-Aikido ( Shinshin-titsu-aikid) is the style of aikido (a modern Japanese martial art)
developed by Koichi Tohei.

Koichi Tohei
Ki is a Japanese word meaning (among many others): spirit, mind, heart,[1] which is conceptually related to the
Chinese Qi and is of great importance to the way in which Koichi Tohei's style of aikido is taught. Tohei's style of
aikido is correctly called Shinshin-titsu-aikid ( meaning "aikido with mind and body
unified"[2] ), but it is frequently referred to as Ki-Aikido, particularly in the Western world.
Tohei studied judo from the age of 16 and as a result of a training injury developed pleurisy, in response to this he
began studying zen and misogi at Daitoku-ji in Kyoto under temple head Josei Ota. The breathing exercises he
learned would later directly affect the breathing exercises taught as part of the Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido curriculum.
In 1939 he began studying aikido with its founder Morihei Ueshiba. His training was interrupted by World War II,
during which he saw service as an officer. He returned from the war in 1946 and resumed his studies of aikido and
misogi. In addition he also began studying Shinshin-titsu-d with Tempu Nakamura; much of what he learned from
Nakamura would directly influence the development of his aikido teaching methods.
Tohei was asked to come to teach aikido in Hawaii which he did in 1953, and was one of the aikido teachers
responsible for spreading aikido to the world outside of Japan. Eventually Tohei was made shihan-buch (teacher,
master, chief instructor) of the Aikido Hombu (world headquarters) dojo in Tokyo.
In the late 1960s he was awarded 10th dan by Morihei Ueshiba, the highest possible rank in aikido.

Ki no Kenkyukai
Around the time of Morihei Ueshiba's death in 1969 tensions were building between Tohei and Kisshomaru Ueshiba,
who was the son of aikido's founder. Whilst Tohei was the chief instructor, it was Kisshomaru Ueshiba who was the
designated heir of aikido (he became aikido doshu, doshu meaning "leader of the way" upon his father's death).
Much of the disagreement between the two stemmed from Tohei's continuing and increasing emphasis on ki
principles and ki exercises which Kisshomaru found contrary to the way his father had taught aikido. This eventually
led Kisshomaru to say that Tohei could teach ki principles if he wanted to but not in the Aikikai Hombu Dojo (
Aikikai Honbu Dj), so Tohei began doing just that. In 1971 he established the Ki no
Kenkykai to teach the principles of Ki and Unification of Mind and Body, outside the aikido framework. This
eventually made his position as chief instructor untenable and in 1974 he resigned from his position at the Aikikai.
Ki-Aikido 131

The split and its acrimonious nature divided the aikido world with many other aikido teachers forced to choose
between the Aikikai headed by the Ueshiba family and Tohei's new Ki no Kenkykai organisation.
Shinshin-titsu-aikid, commonly referred to as Ki-Aikido, has specific teaching methods based around the
development of mind and body coordination and ki. Much of this teaching is based on the four basic principles to
unify mind and body and the five basic principles of aikido, which are:
Four major principles to unify mind and body
1. Keep one-point.
2. Relax completely.
3. Keep weight underside.
4. Extend Ki.
Five Principles of Ki-Aikido
1. Ki is extending.
2. Know your partners mind.
3. Respect your partners Ki.
4. Put yourself in the place of your partner.
5. Perform with confidence.
According to its own sources,[3] there are currently about 30,000 Japanese members and about 100,000 members
overseas in 21 countries.

Descendant styles
Several students of Tohei sensei have separated from Shinshin-titsu-aikid and established their own organizations
and styles.
Aikido Yuishinkai International, founded by Koretoshi Maruyama
Shin Budo Kai founded by Shizuo Imaizumi ( )
Ki no Kenkyukai Association Internationale founded by Kenjiro Yoshigasaki
Kokikai founded by Shuji Maruyama
Ki Federation of Great Britain (Ken Williams)
Seidokan Aikido founded by Roderick T. Kobayashi

References
[1] Kenkyusha's New Japanese-English Dictionary, Kenkyusha Limited, Tokyo 1991, ISBN 4-7674-2015-6
[2] Kenkyusha's New Japanese-English Dictionary, Kenkyusha Limited, Tokyo 1991, ISBN 4-7674-2015-6
[3] (http:/ / www. ki-society. com/ english/ renew/ aikidokai_001. html) "Official Ki-society website with facts and figures"

External links
Official Ki Society page for Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido - Japan (http://www.ki-society.com/english/renew/
aikidokai_001.html)

Sources
Koichi Tohei - Ki in Daily Life - 4889960716 Oxford University Press, USA
Ki Society 132

Ki Society
The Ki Society ( Ki no Kenkykai) is an aikido organization founded by Koichi Tohei in 1971,
while he was the chief instructor at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo. The official Japanese name of the organization is Shin
Shin Toitsu Aikido Kai ( ), but it is more usually known in English-speaking countries as
"Ki Society". Its foundation reflected Tohei's differences with the Aikikai, and his own emphasis on developing the
concept of Ki. Tohei's art is correctly called Shin Shin Titsu-d ( ), meaning "the way of realizing
the [original] unity of mind and body", but the martial discipline of the art is frequently isolated and referred to as
Ki-Aikido, particularly in the Western world.

History
At the Ki Society, Tohei envisioned a place where Ki could be taught to students of all ages, including the
handicapped and infirm, and also to those incapable of Aikido practice. Aikido is just one of the disciplines in
Tohei's holistic art of Shin Shin Toitsudo; there are in fact five disciplines learned by students at a Ki Society Dojo:
Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido
Kiatsu (personal health and healing)
Ki Breathing
Ki Meditation
Ki Development Exercises (methods for realizing oneness of mind and body are Oneness Rhythm Exercise,
Sokushin no Gyo, and Senshin no Gyo)
Being one of the first Japanese to bring Aikido to the West from Japan in 1953, Tohei discovered numerous
obstacles in teaching. Western students did not accept teachings at face value, and bombarded Tohei with questions,
and even occasional "attacks" to test Tohei's real ability. Due to these teaching situations, Tohei was forced to create
a very clear system of teaching that combines Western methods to teach Eastern concepts such as ki, one-point,
relaxing completely in a live fashion, etc. Through his lifetime in wars abroad and at home, and through his
experiences with Aikido, in Sokushin no Gyo at the Ichikukai dojo, and the Japanese Yoga teachings of Tempu
Nakamura, Tohei realized four universal principles that he felt should be used in all Ki Society practice, and in
everyone's daily life.
Keep One Point
Relax Completely
Keep Weight Underside
Extend Ki
Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido Kai hosts an All-Japan Taigi Competition every year at Ki no Kenkyukai (HQ), and every
four years the World Taigi Competition is held there. Various techniques are grouped into 31 sets, each of which are
called a 'Taigi', and participant teams perform from two to five taigi, selected from that year's taigi choices. The
competition is one of measuring the nage's form and movement with uke, rather than a competition between two
opponents. It is most closely compared to paired figure skating competition or ice dancing competition, with judges
awarding points for balance, largeness, and rhythm.
The Ki-society has its primary facilities, known as Ki Society H.Q (Ki no Sato), in Tochigi Prefecture.
Ki Society 133

Further reading
Koichi Tohei: Ki in Daily Life. Japan Publications, Tokyo, 1978, ISBN 0-87040-436-9
Koichi Tohei: Book of Ki: Co-ordinating Mind and Body in Daily Life. Japan Publications, Tokyo, 1976, ISBN
0-87040-379-6
Koretoshi Maruyama: Aikido with Ki. Japan Publications, Tokyo, 1984, ISBN 0-87040-566-7
Reed, William: Ki: A Practical Guide for Westerners. Japan Publications, Tokyo, 1986, ISBN 0-87040-640-X
Reed, William: A Road That Anyone Can Walk: Ki. Japan Publications, Tokyo, 1992, ISBN 0-87040-799-6

External links
(English) Official Ki Society Homepage [1]
(English) Official List of International Ki Society Dojo [2]

References
[1] http:/ / www. ki-society. com/ english/
[2] http:/ / www. ki-society. com/ english/ renew/ aikidokai_002. html
Koichi Tohei 134

Koichi Tohei
Kichi Thei
Thei
Kichi
Born January 20, 1920
Shitaya, Tokyo, Japan

Died May 19, 2011 (aged91)

Tokyo, Japan

Style Founder of Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido

Koichi Tohei ( Thei Kichi) (20 January 1920 19 May 2011) was a 10th Dan aikidoka and founder
of the Ki Society and its style of aikido, officially Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido (literally "aikido with mind and body
unified"), but commonly known as Ki-Aikido.

Aikido
Koichi Tohei was born 1920 in Shitaya ward ( ), presently Tait, in Tokyo. As a boy he was sickly and
frail, leading his father to recommend Tohei for judo studies. He trained hard and his body prospered, but soon after
he began his pre-college studies at Keio University, he developed a case of pleurisy. This forced Tohei to take a year
off.
Tohei was distressed at the thought of losing his newfound strength of body and his means of training it, so he
decided to replace his judo studies with Zen meditation and misogi exercises, learned at the Ichikukai Dojo in
Tokyo. As with his judo studies, Tohei entered the training of the mind with fervor and soon excelled despite his
serious health issues. After his recovery from pleurisy, Tohei became convinced that it was his efforts in training his
mind and cultivating his ki that had helped him to heal and recover. This stimulated his later development of Kiatsu,
a system of treating physical illness by pressing with the fingers and extending the ki into the ill persons body. Tohei
describes this as "priming the pump" allowing the person to heal themselves.
After recovering from pleurisy he returned to judo, but Tohei wanted more than just physical training and did not
think that judo was the right art for him to practise, although he did continue studying judo until he started aikido.
In 1940, when he was 19, Tohei's judo instructor, Shohei Mori, recommended that Tohei meet with the founder of
aikido, Morihei Ueshiba.
According to Tohei, when he first met with an aikido instructor and practised some techniques at the Ueshiba dojo,
he had doubts about aikido and its value to him. That changed when Ueshiba entered the dojo and started to perform
his techniques on the instructors. Tohei was still not entirely convinced until Ueshiba asked Tohei to step onto the
mat and try to grab him. Tohei's attempts were unsuccessful, and after this personal demonstration by Ueshiba, Tohei
asked to enrol on the spot. Tohei continued to train his mind as well as his body with meditation, misogi and aikido.
Tohei trained with Ueshiba for six months before being sent as a representative (dairi) to teach at the Shumei Okawa
school and the military police academy. This was before Tohei was ranked as either dan or kyu. Ueshiba presented
Tohei with the rank of 5th dan after Tohei had begun his military service.
Koichi Tohei 135

War years
In 1942, Kochi Tohei graduated from the Economics Department of the prestigious Keio University. In february of
1944, after receiving military training, Tohei Sensei was sent leading an infantry unit into occupied China. There he
understood, under enemy fire, the importance of calming ones mind in the One Point in the lower abdomen ("seika
no itten"). Because of the lack of doctors, Tohei developped during the war the principles of what he later named
Kiatsu Therapy, based on sending Ki through the fingertips. He saw action in China and was stranded there at the
end of the war until his repatriation in 1946. Tohei Sensei stated on several occasions that Ki principles such as
extend Ki and relax completely leaving things up to the Universe helped him in to stay safe during the war, as
well as the eighty men under his command.

Post-war years
Beginning in 1953 Kochi Tohei Sensei was responsible for the introduction of Aikido to the West, mainly through
regular teaching journeys to Hawaii, but also continental US and Europe. It was the first time the Founder of Aikido
allowed for the art to be taught outside of Japan. For that reason, Hawaii became a center for diffusion of Aikido in
the United States, and remains today an important place for Ki-Aikido. During his years at the Aikikai, Tohei Sensei
taught Akido to many famous Shihan like Hiroshi Tada, Sadateru Arikawa, Seigo Yamaguchi, Shigenobu Okumura,
Kazuo Chiba, Yoshimitsu Yamada and Steven Seagal.
In 1969, Tohei was asked by Ueshiba to accept the new rank of 10th dan,[1] which Tohei accepted, after having
previously refused the same offer. The top rank in aikido had been 8th dan, but the ranks were expanded by Ueshiba
for practical as well as political reasons.

Creation of the Ki no Kenkyukai

The events leading up to the split between the main aikido organization, the Aikikai, and Tohei were fueled with the
death of Morihei Ueshiba in 1969. His son Kisshomaru Ueshiba inherited the title of Doshu. At the time of Ueshiba's
death, Tohei was chief instructor of the Hombu Dojo, the headquarters of Aikikai, a title he retained until his official
split from Aikikai in 1974.
One of the major causes of the conflict arose from Tohei's emphasis on his principle of ki in aikido. Tohei wanted
aikido to focus on these principles, using exercises to both cultivate and test ki in the daily aikido practice. He had
already started teaching his new ideas during his own training sessions at Hombu dojo, but the majority of the other
instructors would not. There were some who agreed with Tohei's approach, but Tohei's actions were not welcomed
by Kisshomaru and most of the senior instructors. They strongly encouraged him not to teach his principles and
techniques in the Hombo Dojo. Tohei replied that he had the right to teach it outside Hombu Dojo, which he did.
But the tensions remained among the senior cadre of instructors, who still did not approve of Tohei's focus upon ki.
These brewing tensions together with Tohei's general dissatisfaction with the situation culminated in 1971 when he
created the Ki No Kenkyukai, with the purpose of promoting the development and cultivation of ki inside aikido, but
outside the Aikikai "umbrella". The years of conflict finally cemented Tohei's decision to break away from the
Aikikai and teach his own 'ki' style of aikido. On 1 May 1974, Koichi Tohei officially left the Aikikai organisation to
concentrate on his newly created Ki-aikido and Ki-society.
On 15 May, 1974, Tohei sent a letter in English and Japanese to the majority of the dojos both in Japan and abroad,
explaining his reasons for the breakaway and his plans involving Ki-aikido and the Ki-society. This breakup came as
a shock to many aikidoka throughout the dojos of the world. Tohei was well regarded by many instructors and
students. He was seen as the foremost sensei of Aikido after Ueshiba's death. This, in turn, led to several dojos
breaking with the Aikikai and joining Tohei in his new style. Tohei's new objective was to coordinate all the dojos
who joined him and incorporate them into the organisation of Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido: "Aikido with Mind and Body
Coordinated". This branch of aikido is still active today even though Tohei himself retired from the day-to-day
Koichi Tohei 136

business of the Ki-aikido section and then concentrated solely on the Ki-society and further personal development of
ki.

Notable students
Both before and during his position as head instructor at the Hombu Dojo, Tohei instructed many notable aikidoka.
Several of these have since made lasting impacts on aikido in general.
Among these are:
Koretoshi Maruyama, former Chief Instructor and President of Ki Society, who has since founded the
independent Aikido Yuishinkai International style of aikido.
Shizuo Imaizumi ( ), 7th Dan Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, who founded the independent Shin Budo Kai
style of aikido.
Calvin Tabata, 8th Dan Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido,and founder of the NW Ki Federation. He holds an Okuden Ki
rank, is a full Lecturer in the Ki Society, and is the Chief Instructor of the Personal Kiatsu School. He began his
training in Hawaii and is a lifelong direct student of Ki Society founder Koichi Tohei sensei. Tabata sensei has
been teaching in the Northwest since 1970. He established the Oregon Ki Society in 1974 and the Personal Kiatsu
School in 1993.
Koichi Kashiwaya, 8th Dan Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, head Ki-Aikido instructor for the USA.
Ken Williams - Founder of the Ki-Aikido Federation of Great Britain.
Kenjiro Yoshigasaki, 8th dan Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, who was a pioneer in spreading Ki-aikido in Europe and
has since founded the independent Ki no Kenkyukai Association Internationale organisation.
Fumio Toyoda, 6th Dan, founder of the Aikido Association of America and Aikido Association International.
Roy Y. Suenaka founder of Wadokai Aikido. [20]
Alan Ruddock, 6th Dan, introduced Aikido to Ireland, founder of the Aiki no Michi.
Shuji Maruyama founder of Kokikai Aikido. [2]
Steven Seagal, 7th Dan, American action movie actor, producer, writer, director and a Blues singer-songwriter.
David E. Shaner, PhD, 7th Dan, Chief Instructor of the Eastern Ki Federation and chair of Furman University's
philosophy department, where he specializes in Japanese philosophy and philosophy of science. Shaner is also
principle of CONNECT, LLC and author of the recently released "The Seven Arts of Change: Leading Business
Transformation That Lasts."
Kenji Ota, featured in a series of Panther Productions Ki-Aikido instructional videos, along with being a
champion ballroom dancer and father of 5th Dan, Steve Ota.[3]
Roderick T. Kobayashi was a 20 year+ student of Master Tohei and was promoted to Rokudan (6th Dan) Aikikai
in 1973. Rod then taught Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido world-wide until forming his own version of Aikido in 1981
which he named Seidokan Aikido.

Death
Tohei died at 9:14 AM, Japan time (GMT +9) on May 19, 2011, after two weeks of being admitted in hospital due to
a discomfort in his chest which proved to be inflammation in the lungs. Wataru Hatakeyama, of the Ki Society
Headquarters, stated "he went to intensive-care unit (ICU) twice and came back to general ward each time with his
strength of Ki, however, his heart got weak little by little this morning and he passed away."[4]

Books by Koichi Tohei

Koichi Tohei: Ki in Daily Life - 4889960716 Oxford University Press, USA
Koichi Tohei: The Book of Ki - 0870403796 Japan Publications, Japan
Koichi Tohei: Aikido in Daily Life - 0870402218 Japan Publications, Japan
Koichi Tohei: Kiatsu - 0870405365 Japan Publications, Japan
Koichi Tohei 137

Koichi Tohei: Ki Sayings - Ki No Kenkyukai, Japan - privately printed

Koichi Tohei: This is Aikido - Japan Publications, Japan - out of print
Koichi Tohei: What is Aikido? - Rikugei Publishing House, Japan - out of print
Koichi Tohei: Aikido: The Arts of Self Defense - Rikugei Publishing House, Japan - out of print
Koichi Tohei: How to Unify Ki - out of print
Koichi Tohei: Ki Meditations - out of print
Koichi Tohei: Ki Hygiene - out of print
Koichi Tohei: How to Develop Ki - out of print
Koichi Tohei: Ki Breathing Methods - out of print
Koichi Tohei: Tempu Nakamura and Morihei Ueshiba - Japanese language only
Koichi Tohei: Extend Ki - Japanese language only
Koichi Tohei: Power of Ki Book - Japanese language only
Koichi Tohei: Ki Power Book - Japanese language only
Koichi Tohei: Aikido in Daily Life Rikugei Publishing House, Tokyo, 1966
Koichi Tohei: The Way to Union with Ki - Ki No Kenkyukai, Japan - privately printed

References
[1] Koichi Toheis 10th dan Promotion (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ ?id=4452) by Stanley Pranin, Aikido Journal, February 1st, 2008
[2] http:/ / www. kokikai. org
[3] YouTube footage of Tohei Sensei shot by Kenji Ota at his Goleta dojo http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=4Z5aEgtOA8s
[4] "Koichi Tohei Sensei passed at age 91" (http:/ / blog. aikidojournal. com/ blog/ 2011/ 05/ 19/ koichi-tohei-sensei-passes-at-age-91/ ). Aikido
Journal Online. . Retrieved 19 May 2011.

John Stevens, Invincible Warrior, Shambhala 1997.

External links
Official Ki Society headquarters page for Koichi Tohei (http://www.ki-society.com/english/renew/touhei.
html)
Official Ki Society biography of Koichi Tohei (http://ki-aikido.net/KNK/ToheiSensei.html)
Books by Koichi Tohei (http://www.koichitohei.com/)
Koichi Tohei Resources (http://koichitohei.aikidojournal.com/) by Aikido Journal
Shodokan Aikido 138

Shodokan Aikido

The Shodokan Aikido symbol.

Shodokan Aikido
( Shdkan Aikid)

Also known as Tomiki Aikido

Founder Kenji Tomiki

Current head Tetsuro Nariyama

Official Site www.aikido-kyokai.com

Shodokan Aikido ( Shdkan Aikid) is the style of Aikido founded by Kenji Tomiki(
Tomiki Kenji, 19001979). Shodokan Aikido is sometimes referred to as "Sport Aikido" because of its use of
regular competitions, and although Tomiki used the name Shodokan, the style is still often referred to as Tomiki
Aikido. Shodokan places more emphasis on free-form randori sparring than most other styles of aikido. The training
method requires a balance between randori and the more stylized kata training along with a well-developed set of
training drills both specific for randori and for general aikido development. The participation in actual shiai
(competitive randori) very much depends on the club with greater emphasis being found in the university clubs,
although randori is core to all Shodokan clubs.
In 1967 Kenji Tomiki built a Shodokan hombu dojo in Osaka, Japan, to teach, train and promote his style. Shodokan
Aikido is organised as the Japan Aikido Association (JAA) with Tetsuro Nariyama as the current chief instructor.

Past directors of Shodokan Aikido

First Director Kenji Tomiki (till 1979)
Second Director Hideo Ohba (19791986)

Shihan
Within the JAA there are two Shihan: Tetsuro Nariyama and Fumiaki Shishida. Nariyama is the technical director of
the JAA and chief instructor of the Shodokan hombu dojo in Osaka, Japan. Shishida is Professor of Intellectual
History of the Japanese Martial Arts at Waseda University in Tokyo.[1] These two instructors are the head of the
JAA. Together, they wrote a key monograph, in Japanese, entitled "Aikido Kyougi",[2] which describes the history
of, and many technical details about, the style of aikido propounded by Tomiki. This book, first published in 1985,
was subsequently translated into English under the title, "Aikido: Tradition and the Competitive Edge".[3] Nariyama
Shihan and Shishida Shihan are the only two Shihan of the JAA. However the term Shihan is used in an
organisational way to describe other roles, such as below.
In recent years, Sato Tadayuki, also of Kodokan Judo fame was made Shihan of Waseda University Aikido Club.
He, along with Kenshi Uno, of Shikoku Japan, have created Shidokan, with the blessing of Shishida Shihan. This
system follows the same teachings of Tomiki, but with different emphasis on teachings. It is important to note this is
Shodokan Aikido 139

not a rift within the JAA. All of this is still the teachings of Tomiki's Aikido, but just performed with a different
approach. Tomiki gave his art the name Shodokan, and many people were concerned with the introduction of a new
name Shidokan. However this is just to show the various paths available within Tomiki's aikido.
The late Yamada of Hakata lived and trained with both Tomiki, Jigoro Kano (the founder of Judo), and Morihei
Ueshiba, the creator of Aikido. On the rare occasions that he stood in line with Shishida and Nariyama Shihans, he
would take the senior position. Yamada did not approve of competition in Aikido, being of the opinion that it would
make Aikido lose its roots in the same way that he felt competition Judo has little connection with its roots and good
basic movements. Yamada did not form an organization or dojo, but has a small number of dedicated students and
clubs who continue his direct teaching and styles passed down through him from Tomiki, Kano and Ueshiba.

Kata
Shodokan defines several kata. Some of the more important kata are listed below.

Junanahon
Randori no kata is the basic kata set for Shodokan Aikido. Junanahon consists of 17 basic techniques, which, with
their variations, are legal within Shodokan randori. They are broken down into four different categories: Atemi, Hiji,
Tekubi and Uki.[4]

Atemi Waza
The Atemi Waza is a set of five techniques that are classified as striking techniques.
Shomen Ate: Frontal Attack
Aigamae Ate: Regular Stance Attack
Gyakugamae Ate: Reverse Stance Attack
Gedan Ate: Lower Part Attack
Ushiro Ate: Back Part Attack

Hiji Waza
The Hiji Waza is a set of five techniques that are classified as elbow techniques.
Oshi Taoshi: Push Down (referred to as Ikkyo in other forms of Aikido)
Ude Gaeshi: Arm Turn
Hiki Taoshi: Pull Down
Ude Hineri: Arm Twist (referred to as Kaiten Nage in other forms of Aikido)
Waki Gatame: Arm Lock (referred to as Rokyo in other forms of Aikido)

Tekubi Waza
The Tekuba Waza is a set of four techniques that are classified as wrist techniques.
Kote Hineri: Wrist Twist (referred to as Sankyo in other forms of Aikido)
Kote Gaeshi: Reverse Wrist Twist
Tenkai Kote Hineri: Rotating Wrist Twist (referred to as Sankyo in other forms of Aikido)
Tenkai Kote Gaeshi: Rotating Reverse Wrist Twist (referred to as Shiho Nage in other forms of Aikido)
Shodokan Aikido 140

Uki Waza
The Uki Waza is a set of three techniques that are classified as floating techniques.
Mae Otoshi: Front Drop
Sumi Otoshi: Corner Drop
Hiki Otoshi: Pull Drop

Koryu Goshin no Kata

Old stream self defense kata, includes many techniques that harken back to pre-war aikido (when the art was still
taught as Daito-ryu aiki-jujutsu). This set of 50 techniques is sometimes referred to as the Koryu dai san and includes
weapons as well as empty-hand techniques.

Nage no kata omote and ura

A set of throwing techniques: 7 direct and 7 more circular and fluid. This sequence is actually the first part of Koryu
dai yon which includes eleven more techniques.

Goshin Ho
A set of 50 self defense techniques that are part of the curriculum for yondan and up.

Competition
Competitions take the form of tanto randori or toshu randori, and also
embu ( ) in which pairs (tori and uke) are judged on their kata.
Toshu randori ( ) is barehanded, and both practitioners are
expected to perform techniques on one another and attempt to resist
and counter each other's techniques. The appearance of this form is
heavily influenced by judo randori with a few changes designed to
enhance the use of aikido technique (for example, one is not allowed to
grasp the opponent's keikogi).

In tanto randori ( ), there is a designated attacker (tant)

and a designated empty-handed defender (toshu). The attacker attempts
to stab the defender with a training knife (usually rubber or stuffed)
while the defender attempts, with any of seventeen basic aikido
techniques, to throw or perform joint-locks on the attacker. Tant is
expected to resist or counter with the first five techniques. In
competition, the roles switch, with competitors having the same
amount of time with and without the knife. In both these forms of
randori, the traditional separation between the performer of technique Preparation for grading at Shodokan hombu dojo
(tori) and the receiver of technique (uke) no longer exists, as either
participant may throw the opponent.
Shodokan Aikido 141

Scoring

Credits
Tanto tsukiari ( ) - 1 point - Awarded for a successful tant strike. For the strike to count, the
tant must land on the upper half of the torso. The arm must be extended, and the attacker must be moving
forward, finished with good balance. Glancing hits do not count. Obviously, this does not apply to toshu randori.
Yuko ( ) - 1 point - Awarded for a balance break, or for making your opponent retreat out of the designated
area.
Waza-ari ( ) - 2 points - Awarded for a full throw or lock, but losing good posture and balance.
Ippon ( ) - 4 points - Awarded for a full throw or lock, keeping good posture and balance.

Penalties
Shido - 1/2 point - Awarded to the opponent when a competitor commits minor violation. Shido are only counted
in pairs.
Dogi-mochi shido - Grabbing hold of the gi.
Taisabaki shido - Failure to dodge properly, e.g. by swatting the knife away instead of moving out of its path.
Tanto shido - Failure to mind the knife: tanto may receive a tanto shido if he or she drops or loses control of
the knife; toshu may receive a tanto shido if he or she allows the tanto to be pressed against their body for three
seconds.
Chui - 1 point - Awarded to the opponent when a competitor commits a major violation. In American
tournaments, 2 chui end the match.

References
[1] "Shishida at Waseda" (http:/ / www. waseda. jp/ intl-ac/ bulletin/ c04-09. html). .
[2] Aikido Kyougi. ISBN4-469-16288-4.
[3] Aikido: Tradition and the Competitive Edge. ISBN978-0964708327.
[4] "Junanahon" (http:/ / homepage2. nifty. com/ shodokan/ en/ kyogi10. html). .

External links

Japan
Japan Aikido Association (JAA) Homepage (http://www.aikido-kyokai.com/en/index.html)
Shodokan hombu dojo (http://homepage2.nifty.com/shodokan/en/index.html)

International
Swiss Shodokan Aikido Association (http://www.shodokan.ch/)
Tomiki Aikido of the Americas (http://www.tomiki.org/)
Spanish Shodokan Aikido (http://www.shodokanaikido.es/)
French Shodokan Aikido (http://shodokan-aikido.fr/)
European Tomiki Aikido wikispace (http://tomiki-aikido.wikispaces.com/)
Kenji Tomiki 142

Kenji Tomiki
Kenji Tomiki
Tomiki Kenji
Born March 15, 1900

Died December 25, 1979 (aged79)

Nationality Japanese

Style Judo and Aikido

Teacher(s) Jigoro Kano, Morihei Ueshiba

Rank 8th dan Judo

8th dan Aikido

Kenji Tomiki ( Tomiki Kenji, March 15, 1900 December 25, 1979) was a Japanese aikido and judo
teacher and the founder of aikido style Shodokan.
Tomiki was one of the early students of the founder of aikido Morihei Ueshiba, and also of Jigoro Kano, the founder
of judo. In 1925, the year he joined Morihei Ueshiba, he obtained 5th dan in judo. In 1929 he represented Miyagi
Prefecture in the first judo tournament held in front of the Emperor - this tournament became the All Japan
Tournament the following year. From 1936 till the end of the second world war he lived in Manchukuo (Manchuria)
where he taught aikibudo (an early name for aikido) to the Kanton army and the Imperial Household Agency. In
1938 he became an assistant professor at Kenkoku University in Manchukuo. He went on to be awarded the first 8th
dan in aikido (1940) and an 8th dan in judo (1978). After returning from a three year internment by the Soviet
Union, he taught both judo and aikido for many years at Waseda University. It was there that he formulated and
expanded his theories concerning both kata based training methods and a particular form of free-style fighting which
would put him at odds with much, but not all, of the aikido world.
In 1974, he founded the Japan Aikido Association (JAA) from an earlier organization of the same name to promote
his theories. He called his style Shodokan Aikido and a honbu dojo, dedicated solely for the study of aikido and
named Shodokan, had been built in 1967 in Osaka. The current head of the dojo and chief instructor of the JAA is
Tetsuro Nariyama.
Tomiki is perhaps best known in the judo world for his influence in the developing of Kodokan Goshin Jutsu kata.
His work Judo, published in 1956, is considered a classic. The aikido appendix to the book is thought to be the
earliest English language text on aikido.

Sources
Shodokan Honbu profile of Kenji Tomiki [1]
Aikido Journal Encyclopedia entry for Kenji Tomiki [2]
Aikido Journal Encyclopedia Interview with Kenji Tomiki (Part 1) [3]
Aikido Journal Encyclopedia Interview with Kenji Tomiki (Part 1) [4]

References
[1] http:/ / homepage2. nifty. com/ shodokan/ en/ profile1. html
[2] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=704
[3] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=144
[4] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=146
Kobayashi aikido 143

Kobayashi aikido
Kokusai Aikid Kenshkai Kobayashi Hirokazu Ha ( ) is the
school of aikido propagated by Hirokazu Kobayashi (19291998) (not Yasuo Kobayashi) disciple of the founder of
aikido Morihei Ueshiba (18831969). Hirokazu Kobayashi's teaching abroad focused on several European nations
including France, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Poland, and these countries formed the core of his independent style.
After the death of Kobayashi in 1998, this school is led by Andre Cognard. In addition to Europe, Kobayashi Aikido
is practiced in South Africa, Indonesia, India Belarus, Russia Ukraine, Mexico and Colombia.
There are several differences between the Kobayashi style and the other Aikido styles such as Aikikai. The most
striking of these are the Suwari Waza (seated techniques) and the amount of stress on Aiki Taiso exercises. There are
also subtle and significant differences in the different Tachi Waza techniques as well as J/Bokken sequences.

Literature
Andre Cognard: 'L'esprit des arts martiaux' Albin Michel Publications, France, 2003, ISBN 2-226-13684-3
Andre Cognard: 'Civilisation et arts martiaux, ou, Le noeud de la ceinture' Albin Michel Publications, France,
2000, ISBN 2-226-07993-9
Robert Gembal: 'Aikido. Edukacja ciaa i umysu' Wydawnictwo Bernardinum, Poland, 2004, ISBN
83-920710-0-X

External links
Official Kobayashi Aikido homepage [1]

References
[1] http:/ / www. aikido-kobayashi. org/
Hirokazu Kobayashi 144

Hirokazu Kobayashi
Hirokazu Kobayashi
Kobayashi
Hirokazu

Born February 14, 1929

Died August 28, 1998 (aged69)

Nationality Japanese

Style Aikido

Teacher(s) Morihei Ueshiba

Rank 8th dan Aikido

Hirokazu Kobayashi ( Kobayashi Hirokazu) (b. February 14, 1929 - d. August 28, 1998)[1] was a
Japanese aikido teacher and student of the founder of aikido Morihei Ueshiba. In 1970, at the age of 41, he was
awarded 8th dan rank. He is the initiator of Kobayashi aikido ( ).

Early life and the Pacific War

Already by the age of 7 years, Kobayashi was studying karate, kendo and judo. At 15, he was stationed as a
kamikaze pilot on an aircraft carrier. When it came to his deployment, a technical defect prevented his airplane from
joining his flight. The remaining members of his flight died. Before he could come to the next "last deployment", the
aircraft carrier was torpedoed by a submarine and sank. Kobayashi was one of the few survivors. After staying in the
water for as long as four days with bad injuries, he was rescued. He had held fast during the entire time to wood
planks and barrels.
Hirokazu Kobayashi 145

Aikido
In 1946 his karate teacher gave him a recommendation letter for Morihei Ueshiba. With this letter he went to Tokyo,
in order to learn the Japanese martial art aikido.
Kobayashi was friendly with Morihiro Saito, with which he shared the role of uke to Ueshiba. During the aikido
training if Saito was mostly requested as uke, then Kobayashi followed with the sword. For this reason Kobayashi
felt always extremely connected to aikiken. Kobayashi described the long time at Ueshiba's side not only as uke, but
also outside of the dojo as companion to the impulsive aikido founder, as extremely hard.
In Tokyo, Kobayashi stayed altogether for about nine years. In 1954 he moved to Osaka. Morihei Ueshiba was
nearly each month in Osaka, in order to hold ten-day-long training courses. Kobayashi Sensei was the chief
instructor at Kansai in 1970,[2] and he usually acted Ueshiba Senseis uke whenever he visited Kansai.[3]
In 1957, Kobayashi started training full-time in aikido. If he did not accompany Ueshiba, he taught at universities in
Osaka and Kobe. In 1964 he was awarded 7th dan. In this year he was asked by Ueshiba for the first time to teach
aikido in Europe. Until 1996 Kobayashi visited Europe each year for several weeks. He gave regular training courses
in France, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, Germany and in the Netherlands.
His techniques were described as very short, powerful and precise with as little movement offline as possible. His
grabbing techniques consisted of "Meguri" - literally meaning flexibility and rotating of the wrist producing subtle
connection points producing the maximum result with minimal levels of effort. A memorable phrase of Kobayashi's
was: "Teach everything you know/have, then you feel thirsty for a higher level." Some other words people often
heard him repeat while on the mat were "Itsumo manaka" (always towards the centre) and "Ima" (right now).
Kobayashi had a cordial relationship with Kenji Tomiki,[1] founder of Tomiki Aikido. On 10 October 1969,
Kobayashi invited Tomiki to Osaka, where the latter gave a short course to introduce competitive aikido to students
from six local universities. In aikido circles, there was friction regarding competitive aikido because nobody knew
Tomiki's theories or the essence of his aikido. Kobayashi met with Tomiki to try to understand his techniques and his
intentions. He suggested that Tomiki show his aikido to the students as the best way for everyone to understand.
One of Tomiki's instructors, Tetsuro Nariyama, came to Osaka from Kokushikan University. Nariyama taught in
Shodokan but at the same time he was learning from Kobayashi who was teaching in the universities in that area. He
accompanied Kobayashi to lessons and had the chance to introduce the students to randori. However, the impetus
came from Tomiki and Kobayashi and the trust between them.

Legacy
Aikido in the style of Kobayashi Hirokazu is taught today in Europe, South America, India, Indonesia, New Zealand,
USA and Japan. Due to the activities of Kobayashi Sensei who spent usually up to 5 months every year in Europe
several highly ranked Aikidoka, still teach his unique style in Europe. To be mentioned are:
France: Andre Cognard, Etienne Leman, Adrien Halm, Jean-Franois Riondet, Lucienne Berenger
Italy: Giampietro Savegnago, Paolo Salvadego, Aldo Gonzato;
Poland: Jacek Wysocki, Robert Gembal;
Portugal: Leopoldo Ferreira
Germany: Walter Oelschlaeger, Jrgen Rohrmann
Belgium: Yves Flon
Switzerland: Jean-Marc Voegeli
Spain: Felipe Garca
India: Avijit Mitra,Debabrata Saha
USA: Michael Jacyna
Panama: Gabriel Vega Castro[4]
Colombia: Michle Lasserre[5]
Hirokazu Kobayashi 146

Kobayashi Sensei was a member of the Aikikai Foundation. He never wanted to found an organisation of his own,
and asked his pupils not to do so either. His idea was to teach Aikido to everybody who wanted to learn and not to
gain personal profit by doing so. A few months before he died in 1998, he gave the permission to his students to
found the independent organisation, Acadmie autonome d'aikido, which attempted to synthesise the uniqueness of
his teaching, without asserting superiority over other styles. This led to the formation of Kobayashi aikido.
Kobayashi died in August 1998 after an illness.

Further reading
Yasuhiko Kunimoto, The Heart of the Aikido of Hirokazu Kobayashi Sensei, Bu Iku Knightly Education

External links
(German) Aikido - Campen - Kobayashi [6]
(French) Hirokazu Kobayashi: La Libert comme Destin [7]

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley. "Encyclopedia of Aikido biography entry" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=399). Aikido Journal. .
Retrieved 11 Oct 2010.
[2] Article on Tetsuro Nariyama Shihan, Pakotegaeshi, http:/ / pakotegaeshi. iespana. es/ english/ e_tetsuronariyamashihan. htm,accessed on 10
Dec 2010.
[3] Interview with Tetsuro Nariyama, Aikido Journal 121, http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=109accessed on 10 Dec 2010.
[4] http:/ / aikidopanama. com/ index. php?option=com_content& view=article& id=48& Itemid=96
[5] http:/ / aikidocolombia. com/ 01. php
[6] http:/ / aikido. shoshin. de/ aikido/ kobayashi-biographie_1. php
[7] http:/ / aikidokobayashi. dojodubrochet. be/ aikido-kobayashi-vie/
Yoseikan Aikido 147

Yoseikan Aikido

Yoseikan symbol depicting Mount Fuji.

Yoseikan Aikid
( Yoseikan Aikid)

Date founded November, 1931

Country of origin Japan

Founder Minoru Mchizuki
( Mchizuki Minoru, 1907-04-072003-05-30)

Arts taught Aikido Judo Karate kobudo kenjutsu

Ancestor schools Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu Kodokan Judo Shotokan karate Tenshin Shden Katori Shint-ry

Descendant schools Yoseikan Budo, Yoseikan aikijujutsu, Aikibudo, Nihon Taijutsu

Yoseikan Aikido ( Yoseikan Aikid) is the aikido taught at the Yoseikan Dojo in Shizuoka,
Japan, under the direction of Minoru Mochizuki ( Mchizuki Minoru, 19072003).
Mochizuki was a direct student of aikido's founder, Morihei Ueshiba. He was an uchi deshi (live-in student) from
around November 1930, to around August 1931. Mochizuki maintained contact with Ueshiba until the latter's death
in 1969.
In the 1970s Yoseikan Aikido was formally organised into Yoseikan Budo along with the other arts Mochizuki had
studied and mastered, including judo, karate, Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu, jujutsu, kobudo, iaido, kendo,
jojutsu, and Mongolian kempo. However, some dojos still exist throughout the world that maintain their art as
Aikido, and as such, still refer to it as Yoseikan Aikido, or Yoseikan Aikijujutsu/ Aikijutsu.

Summary
Traditionally Yoseikan Aikido contains all the aspects present in other aikido schools, for example ai (harmony), ki
(energy), kokyu (breath), seika-no-itten (one point), irimi (entering), and tenkan (turning). Other important aspects
from judo are also included, including kuzushi (unbalancing), tsukuri (positioning), jita kyoei (mutual welfare and
prosperity), sei ryoku zen yo (maximum efficiency).
Due to Mochizukis fighting experiences when introducing martial arts in France in the 1950s[1] he felt that aikido
needed a stronger technical basis to meet all challengers. In essence all judo techniques can be thought of as
Yoseikan Aikido techniques. In reality, this only adds several core judo techniques, such as hip throws, shoulder
throws (which exist in other aikido schools), sacrifice throws, and foot sweeps. Many in the aikido community see
the ideas of foot sweeps and sacrifice throws as contrary to the core principles of aikido, where balance and being
centred are paramount. These techniques, however, do not result in a loss of centre or balance. Fundamentally, the
foot sweeping techniques in Yoseikan Aikido are identical to otoshi waza (dropping techniques) in other aikido
schools. The use of the foot ensures the technique is effective, even when the opponent is resisting. Less emphasis is
then placed on timing, and more importantly, an overcommitted attack is not required. As for sacrifice throws, a
fundamental principle used in Yoseikan Aikido is gyokushin, or the spirit of a ball. Even when a ball rolls it
Yoseikan Aikido 148

maintains its centre, and that is true of the Yoseikan Aikidoka when performing sacrifice throws. You do not need to
be on your feet to move spherically, which is important in the application of aikido techniques.
Sincerity is another aspect which greatly influences Yoseikan Aikido. It is for this reason that Yoseikan Aikido
includes basics, combinations and fundamental kata from karate Do. This makes sure that uke (the attacker) in
Yoseikan is as effective and sincere in attack, as nage (the thrower) will become in defence. Before World War II,
aikido students were required to have previously studied martial arts, and have a letter of reference from their
instructor. This meant that all pre-war students already possessed basic skills of uke (the attacker), including falling
and striking. Now, aikido may be taken as a first art. Therefore, in Yoseikan students are taught how to attack.
Put simply, the main difference between Yoseikan, and other schools is the way Mochizuki sensei structured his
teachings, and hence the way aikido was taught at the Yoseikan. Yoseikan has a very logical structure, which can be
seen as a fundamental influence of Jigoro Kano, who stressed the science of judo. More emphasis is placed on
fundamentals, such as escaping from a grab. These techniques are typically mentioned in other aikido schools, and
are the first part of a locking or throwing technique. However, in Yoseikan Aikido they are drilled and examined as
basics. After its construction in 1931, Morihei Ueshiba visited, supervised, and taught at the Yoseikan, and
Mochizuki was awarded his 8th Dan in the 1950s (10th Dan awarded later by the IMAF with the approval of
Kisshomaru Ueshiba), as well as obtaining scrolls in Aikijujutsu from Ueshiba in the 1930s,[2] hence, his method
was approved.

History

Japan
In October 1930 after witnessing a demonstration of Morihei Ueshiba, Jigoro Kano organised (in a formal letter to
Ueshiba) for two students to study under him. These two men were, Jiro Takeda and Minoru Mochizuki.[3] With his
previous knowledge in judo, jujutsu, kendo and kenjutsu, Mochizuki rapidly progressed under Ueshiba. He was
appointed supervisor of the uchi deshi, and also served as a teaching assistant, Ueshiba even suggested that
Mochizuki marry his daughter and hence become his successor. Mochizuki was an uchi deshi under Ueshiba for
several months. In mid to late 1931, Mochizuki fell ill with pleurisy and pulmonary tuberculosis. During his 3 month
hospital stay the Yoseikan dojo was constructed for Mochizuki. Ueshiba, who was at the official opening of the
Yoseikan in November 1931, regularly taught seminars at the dojo.[4]
In June 1932, Ueshiba awarded Mochizuki with two Daito Ryu scrolls. The first (in Daito Ryu order) was the Hiden
Ogi no Koto and the second was the Goshinyo no Te. In Daito Ryu, one learns the Hiden Mokuroku, then the Aiki no
Jutsu, then the Hiden Ogi, and then the Goshinyo no Te. After attaining these four levels, the person is then qualified
to teach the art. After these levels comes Kaishaku Soden and then finally Menkyo Kaiden. In terms of Daito Ryu,
Mochizuki was qualified to teach all that he had learnt up the Goshinyo no Te. It is also worth noting that this is the
technical level Ueshiba had achieved in Daito Ryu, although he held the official title Kyoju Dairi in Daito Ryu. This
enabled Ueshiba to give instruction and travel to teach as a representative of the headmaster, Sokaku Takeda.[5]
Aikido at the Yoseikan continued to develop until 1972, when after returning from France, Mochizuki had decided to
change the name to Yoseikan Budo. This also resulted in technical restructuring and the amalgamation of the once
separate arts Mochizuki taught under a single term. The characteristics of Mochizuki's Yoseikan Budo was still in
essence aikido, with the addition of more Judo techniques, specifically ground work, the development of more
sacrifice throws, and the inclusion Katori Shinto Ryu in higher grades.
Today the Yoseikan in Japan is home to the Seifukai, an organisation headed by Mochizuki's son Tetsuma. They
maintain a strong affinity to the primarily aikido based Budo of Minoru Mochizuki.
Yoseikan Aikido 149

France
In 1951, Mochizuki travelled to France mainly to teach judo, but he also found time to give instruction in aikido and
is therefore credited with being the first to disseminate aikido abroad. Europe's introduction to aikido and its
association with judo came about directly due to the early activities of Mochizuki. He was to set a pattern that would
be repeated in most European countries where aikido would cast its roots within the existing judo community. A
large number of early European practitioners were judoka who were past their competitive years and found the
graceful techniques of aikido to be a perfect alternative allowing them to continue active martial arts practice.
Mochizuki spent a total of two-and-one-half years in France and his efforts sowed the seeds for the development of
the world's largest aikido population outside Japan. It is said that today there are more than fifty thousand active
practitioners in France![6]

United States
The legitimate start of Yoseikan Aikido in the US was through Capt. Sadayuki Demizu of the Japanese Air Self
Defense Force. As Liaison Officer for Japanese students at the missile school at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville,
Alabama, Demizu was a 4th dan in Yoseikan Aikido, mostly trained by Kyoichi Murai, but a direct student and
son-in-law of Minoru Mochizuki. When Huntsville officers learned that Demizu was an aikido man, they asked him
to begin teaching and he agreed. Among the first students was Thomas E. Bearden (then Captain, US Armylater
retired as Lt.Col.). Glenn Pack, now the technical director of the United States Yoseikan Budo Association
(USYBA) started training around this time. In February 1974, Pack began teaching Yoseikan Aikido at the
University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Pack continued teaching at the University of Alabama until 1975, when he
went to graduate work in Arkansas, leaving the Tuscaloosa class in the hands of Rick Moncrief.
In 1975, Bearden sent a letter to Mochizuki asking for a teacher to be sent to the US. In early 1976, Mochizuki sent
Patrick Auge. Auge had lived in Japan for several years, with four years as an uchi deshi at the Yoseikan, and was at
the time a 4th dan. Auge settled in Ottawa, Ontario in Canada. He oversaw the already established Yoseikan in the
US and began teaching in Canada, with two clubs in Ottawa. Currently there are 8 schools listed under the
International Yoseikan Budo Federation (IYBF) in Canada and the US, most have the word aikido in their title. The
IYBF hombu is in Torrance California under the direction of Patrick Auge, with two other dojos in the US.[7]
The USYBA, while currently affiliated with the Yoseikan World Federation under Hiroo Mochizuki, still maintains
its Yoseikan Aikido like syllabus. The USYBA list seven clubs on their website through the US, some include the
term aikido in their title.[8] Another organisation in Canada is called the Canadian Association of Aikido Mochizuki.
Although the term Yoseikan Aikido is not used, the origins of their aikido are with Mochizuki from the Yoseikan.

Australia
Yoseikan Aikido was the second school of aikido in Australia, and the first in the state of Western Australia. In 1968
a gentleman by the name of Phillipe Boiron began teaching Yoseikan Aikido for Jan de Jong in Perth, Western
Australia. This lead Jan de Jong to travel to Japan in 1969 to train directly under Minoru Mochizuki. In 1974, on an
official request from Jan de Jong, Mochizuki dispatched Yoshiaki Unno to Perth to teach Yoseikan Aikido. Unno
also taught Iaido, Kobudo and Karate.
Almost half of the aikido schools in Perth had some relationship to this early introduction of Yoseikan Aikido in
Perth. The Jan de Jong Martial Arts School continues to teach aikido. Hans de Jong, son of the late Jan de Jong and
student of Unno, teaches Yoseikan Aikido and is a Shodan. The aikido branch of the UWA Martial Arts Club started
under Unno then continued by his student Brett Nener, 4th Dan in Yoseikan Aikido, is now affiliated with Butoku
Ryu Aikijujutsu. Another of Unno's students, Ross Taylor, 4th Dan, heads the West Coast Aikido Academy, and is
now affiliated with the Seifukai. John Langley principle of the Institute of Aikido Australia, was also a student of
Unno's and teaches with 2nd Dan in Yoseikan Aikido Steven Nener and Darren Edwards.
Yoseikan Aikido 150

Vietnam
In 1960, Kazuo Ishikawa went to Saigon, Vietnam to start the Yoseikan programs. Kazuo Ishikawa and a Japanese
resident in Saigon, Haruye Watanabe, taught Aikido at the invitation of the Cercle Sportif Saigonnaise. Watanabe, a
lieutenant in the Japanese Imperial Military Police, had refused to return to his homeland because Japan lost the War.
Hi student Bui Huu Tac also spent years training martial arts in Japan during the Second World War. Tac was also
the founder of Yamadakai Martial arts Institute; Ngac received second degree blackbelt in Aikido Yoseikan from
Kazuo Ishikawa.

Techniques
Technically Yoseikan Aikido is very similar to other aikido styles. The fundamental technique, Ikkyo, is referred to
as Robuse, or arm rowing. The majority of other aikido techniques are included in Yoseikan Aikido, although some
have different names. The fundamental attack, however, is not shomen uchi, it is an opposite posture single hand
grab. Below is a list of common attacks used in Yoseikan, excluding strikes and kicks which encompass all of the
basics from karate. An equivalent Aikikai attack is given in parentheses after the translation.

Attacks
Japanese: English (Aikikai equivalent[9]):
Jun katate dori: Normal single hand grip (gyaku hanmi katate dori)
Dosoku katate dori: Opposite side, single hand (cross) grip (ai hanmi katate dori or kosa dori)
Gyaku katate dori: Reverse single hand grip (none)
Ushiro kubi jime katate dori: rear neck strangle and wrist grab (same)
Ushiro watte kumi tsuki: Rear over arm bear hug (none)
Ushiro shitate kumi tsuki: Rear under arm bear hug (none)
Mae ryote ippon dori: Front two hand on one grasp (morote dori)
Mae ryote dori: Front two hand grasp (ryote dori)
Ushiro ryote dori: Rear two hand grasp (same)
Sode dori: Sleeve grasp (same)
Eri dori: Lapel grasp (mune dori)
Kata dori: Shoulder grasp (same)
Ushiro hiji dori: Rear two on two sleeve grasp (ushiro ryo sode dori)
Ushiro kata dori: Rear two on two shoulder (ushiro ryo kata dori)
Ushiro eri dori: Rear collar grasp (same)
Hadaka jime: Naked strangle (ushiro kubi shime)
Mae kumi tsuki: Tackle (none)
Eri dori yokomen uchi: Lapel hold side strike
Eri dori sukiage: lapel hold upper cut
Mae kubi tsukami shime: front neck strangle (none)
Mae eri shimeage: Front both hand lapel grab (mune dori)
Mae kami dori: Front hair grab (none)
Tsukami kakari: attempted strangle (none)
The following is a list of Locks and then throws, again with Aikikai, Yoshinkan, and Shodokan equivalents in
parentheses. Please note that these techniques are used as equivalents to Yoseikan techniques for the benefit of those
who study a different school of aikido, and are not meant to equate the techniques of other schools.
Yoseikan Aikido 151

Locks
Yoseikan: English (Aikikai, Yoshinkan,[10] Shodokan)
Robuse Taoshi: Arm Rowing Takedown (Ikkyo, Ikkajo, Oshi Taoshi)
Hiji Kudaki: Elbow Smash (Rokkyo, Hiji Shime, Waki Gatame)
Kote Kudaki: Wrist Smash (Nikyo, Nikajo, Kote Mawashi)
Yuki Chigai: Under Arm Twist (Sankyo, Sankajo, Kote Hineri)
Shita Ude Garami: Lower Arm Entanglement (Kata Gatame, -, Ude Hineri)
Kata Ha Gaeshi: Single Wing Turnover (Kata Gatame, -, Ude Hineri)
Waki Gatame Hiki Tate: Arm Pit Control ( -, Sankajo Rengyo Ho, - )
Kannuki Hiki Tate: Bolt Lock Control ( -, Hiki Kime, - )

Throws
Yoseikan: English (Aikikai, Yoshinkan, Shodokan)
Kote Gaeshi: Wrist Turnover (same)
Tenbin Nage: Yoke Throw ( -, Hiji Ate Kokyu Nage, Mae Otoshi)
Shiho Nage: Four Corner Throw (same)
Ue Ude Garami: Upper Arm Entanglement ( -, Ude Garami, Ude Gaeshi)
Gyaku Kote Gaeshi: Reverse Wrist Turnover (same)
Mukae Daoshi: Meeting Takedown (Irimi Nage, Shomen Irimi Nage, - )
Do Gaeshi: Body Overturning (Sayu Nage, Sokumen Irimi Nage, Gyaku Gamae Ate and Gedan Ate)
Ushiro Kata otoshi: Rear Shoulder Drop (Ushiro Udoroshi, -, Ushiro Ate)
Ushiro Sumi Otoshi: Rear Corner Drop (Sumi Otoshi, -, Sumi Otoshi)
Kata Garuma: Shoulder Wheel (Maki Otoshi, -, - )
More techniques exist; the ones listed here have known equivalent techniques in other schools. The Aikikai and
Yoshinkan refer to a lot of techniques as Kokyu Nage, a term which is not used in Yoseikan, all techniques have
separate names. At higher levels the term Aiki Nage is used to describe throws utilising perfect timing, as Kokyu
Nage implies, and it is also the term used in Morihei Ueshibas Budo Renshu.[11]

Structure
Below is a list of the technical elements which make up Yoseikan Aikido.
Ukemi: Falling and rolling
Atemi: Striking methods (karate basics)
Taisabaki: Body movements (Irimi, etc.)
Wan Ryoku Yosei: Cultivating energy
Tehodoki: Hand escapes
Nigiri Gaeshi: Grip reversals
Te Waza: Hand techniques
Uchi Neji Ho: Inward twisting methods (Robuse, Kote Kudaki, Yuki Chigai, etc.)
Soto Neji Ho: Outer twisting methods (Kote Gaeshi, Shiho Nage, etc.)
Chokutai Ho: Straight line body methods (Mukae Daoshi, Do Gaeshi, etc.)
Ude Dori Ho: Arm grabbing methods (Seoi Nage, Ushiro Sumi Otoshi, etc.)
Ashi Dori Ho: Leg seizing methods (using the hand to grab the leg, e.g. kicking techniques)
Ashi Waza: Foot techniques (sweeps and reaps from Judo)
Koshi Waza: Hip techniques (from Judo)
Sutemi Waza: Sacrifice techniques
Yoseikan Aikido 152

Han Sutemi Waza: Half sacrifice techniques (tori kneels)

Yoko Sutemi Waza: Side sacrifice techniques (tori lies on side)
Ma Sutemi Waza: Flat sacrifice techniques (tori lies on back)
Kime Waza: Restraining Techniques
Osae Komi: Ground work (from judo)
Shime Waza: Choking techniques
Kansetsu Waza: Joint pins
Kaeshi Waza: Counter techniques
Renzoku Waza: Combinations and continuation Techniques
Emono Dori: Weapon taking
Tanto Dori: Knife taking
Tachi Dori: Sword taking
Bo Dori: Staff taking
Randori:
Shite Randori: Fixed combat (two attackers, set attack and defence)
Jyu Randori: Free combat (two attackers, any attack and defence)
Chigara Randori: Power combat (knife and stick fighting)
Suwari Waza: Seated techniques
Han Suwari Waza: Half seated techniques
Ninin Dori Sanin Dori: 2 person & 3 person grab
Kenjutsu: Sword Work
Suburi: Practice cuts
Kumitachi: Paired sword forms
Kenjutsu Kata: Sword forms
Tachi Iai: Standing sword drawing
Suwari Iai: Kneeling sword drawing
Kata: Solo (striking) and paired (techniques) forms

Kata
Below is a list of Yoseikan Aikido Kata, and the techniques in them.
Solo kata;
Happo Ken no Kata: Form of Eight Fists
The Happo Ken no Kata contains the fundamental striking and blocking techniques. Originally, the kata was
made up of the following movements; 1) soto yoko uke, 2) hiji ate, 3) gedan barai, 4) gedan tsuki, 5) soto
barai, 6) chudan tsuki, 7) gedan tsuki uke, 8) jodan tsuki age.[12] The modern version of happo ken has two
differences; 4) kubi uchi, 8) hiji ago tsuki age. The kata is said to have come from Shorinji Kempo, which
Mochizuki studied while in Mongolia.
Keri Yon Ho no Kata: Form of Four Kicks
The Keri Yon Ho no Kata compliments the happo ken, in that it teaches the basic kicking techniques. The kata
contains the following movements; 1) mae geri, 2) yoko geri, 3) ushiro geri, 4) mawashi geri. An older
version of the kata, call San Bo Geri no Kata, contains only the first three kicks.[13] Another version of the
kata, Keri Go Ho no Kata. also includes; 5) ushiro mawashi geri.
Paired kata (attacker and defender);
Ken Tai Ichi no Kata: Form of Sword and Body as One (sword attack - sword defence; sword attack - sword
taking; attack - defence)
Yoseikan Aikido 153

Tsuki - Maki Uchi Kote; Tsuki - Hiji Kudaki; Oitsuki - Hiji Kudaki
Kote Uchi - Hari Gaeshi Kote Uchi; Kote Giri - Kote Kudaki; Dosoku Katate Dori - Kote Kudaki
Tsuki - Kubi Suri Komi; Tsuki - Mukae Daoshi; Oitsuki - Mukae Daoshi
Kubi Giri - Kote Age Kata Uchi; Kubi Giri - Tenbin Nage; Yokomen Uchi - Tenbin Nage
Maki Uchi Men - Suri Age Do Uchi Ushiro Kata Uchi; Maki Uchi Men - Shiho Nage; Shomen Uchi - Shiho
Nage
The Ken Tai Ichi no Kata illustrates the idea that aikido is based on Muto Ryu Kenjutsu.[14] The first part of the
five techniques, sword verses sword, demonstrates the kenjutsu form. The second part, sword taking, shows
what Mochizuki refers to as the jujutsu forms. Finally, the empty hand techniques are the aikido forms.
Jutsuri no Kata: Forms of Soft Catch (attack - defence)
Mae Ryote Dori - Do Gaeshi
Eri Dori Yokomen Uchi - Hachi Mawashi
Ushiro Kubi Jime Kata Te Dori - Tenbin Nage
Mae Kumi Tsuki - Kata Ha Otoshi
Tsuhari - Hazu Oshi Sutemi
Taisabaki no Kata: Forms of Body Movement (body movement - inside or outside - technique)
Nagashi - Soto - Hiki Otoshi
Nagashi - Uchi - Kubi Otoshi
Hiraki - Soto - Waki Tori
Hiraki - Uchi - Hiza Oshi Taoshi
Irimi - Soto - Mukae Daoshi
Irimi - Uchi - Ko Uchi Gari
Irimi Senkai - Soto - O Soto Gari
Irimi Senkai - Uchi - Kata Guruma
O Irimi Senkai - O Irimi Senkai Ude Domoe
The Taisabaki no Kata demonstrates the use of body movement, with the judo principles of kuzushi
(unbalancing), tsukuri (positioning), and gake (throwing). The kata shows how these principles relate to the
aikido techniques performed.[15]
Hyori no Kata: Form of Escapes and Counters
Eri Dori Yokomen Uchi
Ushiro Kubi Jime Kata Te Dori
Yuki Chigai
Hiji Kudaki
Robuse
Do Gaeshi
Gyaku Tsuki
Shiho Nage
Tenbin Nage
Mukae Daoshi
Kata Ha Otoshi
Kata Guruma
The Hyori no Kata (lit. Form of Front and Back) demonstrates counter techniques, which have been removed
from some aikido schools. The rolls of attacker and defender are continuously being changed. The first
attacker, performing eri dori yokomen uchi, escapes the second attack, ushiro kubi jime kata te dori, with yuki
chigai. The switching of rolls continues through the kata until the final technique, were the initial defender
Yoseikan Aikido 154

escapes kata ha otoshi to finally throw the attacker with kata garuma.
Shime Waza Kime no Kata: Form of Chokes
Kansetsu Waza Kime no Kata: Form of Joint Locks
Sutemi Waza no Kata: Form of Sacrifice Throws

References
[1] Patrick Aug at Aiki Expo 2002 by Ikuko Kimura (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=377)
[2] Morihei Ueshiba and Minoru Mochizuki by Stanley Pranin (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=67)
[3] Founder of Aikido (30): Jigoro Kano Sensei (Part Two) by Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Aiki News #59 (December 1983) (http:/ / www.
aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=342)
[4] Morihei Ueshiba and Minoru Mochizuki by Stanley Pranin, Japanese Wushu Magazine (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article.
php?articleID=67)
[5] Interview with Katsuyuki Kondo (2) by Stanley Pranin, Aiki News #92 (Summer 1992) (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article.
php?articleID=311)
[6] Minoru Mochizuki (1907-2003) by Stanley Pranin (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=505)
[7] Interview with Patrick Aug by Stanley Pranin, Aiki News #91 (Spring 1992) (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=400)
[8] United States Yoseikan Budo Association (http:/ / www. yoseikanbudo. us)
[9] Aikikai terms taken from Aikido FAQ (http:/ / www. AikidoFAQ. com)
[10] Yoshinkan terms taken from Gozo Shioda's Total Aikido
[11] Morihei Ueshiba Budo Renshu
[12] Minoru Mochizuki Nihon-den Jujutsu Kodansha 1978
[13] Minoru Mochizuki, Jim Alcheik Ma Methode D' Aikido Jiu-Jitsu c.1957
[14] Minoru Mochizuki "2nd Aikido Friendship Demonstration: Part Two" DVD, Aikido Journal, 2004
[15] The history and the spirit of the Tai Sabaki No Kata and the Hyori No Kata by Patrick Auge (http:/ / www. yoseikanbudo. com/ eng/
essayshihanauge_c. shtml)

External links

Organisations
Canadian Association of Aikido Mochizuki (http://www.aikidomochizuki.com)
Yoseikan Aikido in Mississauga, Canada (http://aikibudomississauga.com)
Germany Association of Aikido Mochizuki (http://www.yoseikan.de)
International Federation of Nippon Budo (http://www.sugiyama-ha.net)
International Yoseikan Budo Federation (http://www.yoseikanbudo.com)
United States Yoseikan Budo Association (http://www.yoseikanbudo.us)
Yoseikan Hombu Dojo (http://www.yoseikan-aix.fr/)
Yoseikan Japan official web site (http://yoseikan.txt-nifty.com/)
Yoseikan World Federation (http://www.yoseikan-budo.org)
Dutch Yoseikan Organisation (http://www.yoseikan.nl/)
Aikido Global Network (http://www.aikidoglobal.com)
Yoseikan Aikido 155

Videos
Mochizuki on Yoseikan Aikido at The 2nd Aikido Friendship Demonstration (https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=Sf39s46Qxcg) on YouTube
Mochizuki at the Yoseikan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oCu3RQN1zA) on YouTube
Mochizuki randori (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWYgNEH8n_g) on YouTube
Mochizuki demo c. 1950 in France (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSIfEiE8ukE) on YouTube
Aikido Yoseikan Dojo Hyori no Kata (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iYlo5TUfbM) on YouTube

Minoru Mochizuki
Minoru Mochizuki ( Mochizuki Minoru, April 7, 1907
May 30, 2003) was a Japanese martial artist who founded the dojo
Yoseikan. He was a 10th dan in Aikido, 9th dan in jujutsu, 8th dan in
iaido, 8th dan in judo, 8th dan in kobudo, 5th dan in kendo, 5th dan in
karate, and a 5th dan in jojutsu.[1]
Born in Shizuoka, Japan, Mochizuki was one of the direct students of
judo founder Jigoro Kano, aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba and Gichin
Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate.[2]
Believing that the martial arts had become distorted by specialization
into separate disciplines or transformed into sports, Mochizuki
achievement was to assemble back the major techniques of the
Japanese martial tradition into a single structure, as it was once
practised. He oversaw the development of the system from his home in
Shizuoka, Japan, where his dojo, the Yoseikan, was often visited by
martial arts practitioners from all over the world. He died in
Mochizuki c. 1930
Aix-en-Provence, France in 2003.

Biography
Mochizuki, began by training in kendo at the age of five, at his
grandfather's dojo in Shizuoka. Then he began Judo and joined the
Kodokan in 1925 where he became an outstanding competitor. Under
the tutelage of Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo, Mochizuki became
the youngest member of the Kobudo Kenkyukai an organization for
the study, preservation and development of classical martial arts
established within the Kodokan.[3] Here he practiced among others
Katori Shinto-ryu. In 1930, he was sent by Jigoro Kano to study
aikijujutsu with Morihei Ueshiba.[4] He was the uchideschi of Morihei Mochizuki and Ueshiba c. 1951
Ueshiba at the Kobukan dojo for one year before opening his own dojo
in Shizuoka City in 1931.

He was awarded two Daito-Ryu scrolls by Ueshiba in June 1932 ("Goshinyo no te" and "Hiden ogi no koto"). He
spent eight years in Mongolia where he was an active educator and entrepreneur of projects to improve
communications and irrigation. His idea of combating communism with the application of the principles of "mutual
welfare and prosperity" and of "the best use of energy" of Jigoro Kano contributed to the development of his region.
Minoru Mochizuki 156

His irrigation project was completed after the Second World War by the Chinese authorities. Mochizuki was the first
to teach aikido in the West when he traveled in France from 1951 to 1953 as a judo teacher.[5] He taught at the dojo
of Shizuoka until nearly the end of the last millennium and spent the last years of his life in France with his son
Hiroo.[6]

References
[1] Aikido Journal (http:/ / members. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia/ minoru-mochizuki/ ). Members.aikidojournal.com. Retrieved on
2012-01-27.
[2] Active Interest Media, Inc. (April 1980). Black Belt (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=jNIDAAAAMBAJ& pg=PA35). Active Interest
Media, Inc.. pp.35. ISSN02773066. . Retrieved 27 January 2012.
[3] Aikido Journal, Kodokan (http:/ / members. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia/ kobudo-kenkyukai/ ). Members.aikidojournal.com. Retrieved
on 2012-01-27.
[4] Aikido Journal, encyclipedia (http:/ / members. aikidojournal. com/ public/ chronology-of-the-life-of-morihei-ueshiba-3/ ).
Members.aikidojournal.com. Retrieved on 2012-01-27.
[5] Aikido Journal, Mochizuki (http:/ / members. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia/ minoru-mochizuki/ ). Members.aikidojournal.com. Retrieved
on 2012-01-27.
[6] Minoru Mochizuki from Yoseikan Budo International Federation (http:/ / www. yoseikanbudo. com/ eng/ minorumochizuki. shtml).
Yoseikanbudo.com. Retrieved on 2012-01-27.

Sources
Stanley Pranin, ed. Aikido masters: prewar students of Morihei Ueshiba. Tokyo: Aiki News. 1993. ISBN
4-900586-14-5 publisher (http://www.aikidojournal.com/catalog/productdetails.php?code=mas)

External links
Yoseikan Hombu Dojo (http://www.yoseikan-aix.fr/)
Yoseikan Budo Iran (http://www.yoseikan-budo.ir/)
Who is Minoru Mochizuki? (http://www.yoseikanbudo.us/faq.asp#whoisminorumochizuki) United States
Yoseikan Budo Association
Yoshinkan 157

Yoshinkan

Symbol of the Yoshinkai

Yoshinkan Aikido

Also known as Aikido Yoshinkan Foundation (AYF), Yoshinkai, International Yoshinkan Aikido Federation (IYAF)

Date founded 1955

Country of origin Japan

Founder Gozo Shioda
( , Shioda Gz, 9 September 191517 July 1994)

Current head Yasuhisa Shioda

(born 15 November 1951)

Arts taught Aikido

Ancestor arts Dait-ry Aiki-jjutsu

Ancestor schools Aiki Budo, Aikikai

Descendant schools Yoshokai, Renshinkai, Shudokan, Shinwakan

Practitioners Kiyoyuki Terada, Kyoichi Inoue, Takefumi Takeno, Tsutomu Chida, Tsuneo Ando

Official Site [1]

yoshinkan.net

Aikido Yoshinkan ( Aikid Yshinkan lit. "Aikido Cultivating the Spirit School") is a style of
aikido founded by Gozo Shioda (19151994) after World War II. Yoshinkan Aikido is often called the "hard" style
of aikido because the training methods are a product of the gruelling period that Shioda spent as a student of Morihei
Ueshiba before the war. The Yoshinkan style is currently the second largest aikido organization worldwide.[2]

Style
As a style of aikido, Yoshinkan is more akin to the pre-war aikibudo techniques taught by Morihei Ueshiba, and
therefore also generally closer to aikijujutsu than those styles of aikido developed after the war. The unusual
emphasis placed on correct form prior to practicing correct flow and timing further contributes to its image as a
"hard" style.
Gozo Shioda created a structured method in which beginning students would learn the foundation techniques.
Techniques are made up of elements such as the initiating attack, the applicable control and whether it is a pin or
throw. They are further divided into two groups called ichi (first) and ni (second) techniques. Ichi techniques have a
feeling of the energy moving away from shite, often with uke, pulling or blocking a strike. Ni techniques have a
feeling of the energy coming towards shite. In an ichi technique, the Yoshinkan practitioner goes with the pull; and
for a ni technique he diverts or pivots away from the push.
The current method of breaking the techniques into steps and the kihon dosa were developed in order to facilitate
teaching beginners in a group. The kenshusei codified many of these methods in consultation with Gozo Shioda,
especially Kyoichi Inoue and Takashi Kushida.[3][4][5]
To remove stiffness from techniques taught in this way, practitioners over the rank of shodan also practice timing
and flow.[3][4]
Yoshinkan 158

Techniques
Yoshinkan Aikido has some 150 kihon waza (lit. "basic techniques"), which are practised repeatedly. Proficiency in
these enable the student to master the remaining ones, which total some 3000 overall. The syllabus contains no
weapons forms, although they are practised as an adjunct to the open hand techniques. Like many styles of aikido,
Yoshinkan eschews competition; instead, it emphasizes self defence applications. Yoshinkan aikido is one of the
martial arts that has been taught to the Tokyo police.
Besides the usual attention to distance, timing and balance, the Yoshinkan style places particularly heavy emphasis
on stance and basic movements. Yoshinkans distinctive stance, or kamae (lit. "posture" in Japanese), stresses the
position of feet and hips. Yoshinkan aikido practitioners stand with hips and shoulders square to the front, the front
foot pointing outward and the back foot pointing about 90 degrees to the front foot. Kamae is the foundation of all
Yoshinkan aikido techniques and practitioners of Yoshinkan aikido strive to perfect their kamae so that their overall
technique will be strengthened. Along with kamae there are 6 kihon dosa (lit. "basic movements") which are
considered to be central for the 150 basic techniques. Yoshinkan aikido students practice these diligently to
understand how to move their kamae around to put themselves in a strong position. Without proper form in one's
basic movements one's aikido will not be as effective.

Senshusei course
In 1990, Gozo Shioda founded the International Yoshinkai Aikido Federation (IYAF) to facilitate the learning of
Yoshinkan aikido outside of Japan. Today, both the All Japan Yoshinkan Aikido Federation and the IYAF are now
led by the current head of the style Yasuhisa Shioda, the founder's son. Under him, the Yoshinkan Honbu dojo,
located in Shinjuku Tokyo, runs an annual 11-month intensive course called the Senshusei course derived from the
course used to train the Tokyo Metropolitan Riot Police. The book Angry White Pyjamas by Robert Twigger is based
on the author's experiences during the course.

Former Yoshinkan Branches

Yoshokai aikido is an offshoot of Yoshinkan Aikido based in the United States founded by Takashi Kushida, a direct
student of Gozo Shioda and a contemporary of Kyoichi Inoue.
Then-9th dan Kyoichi Inoue, shihan, resigned from the Yoshinkan in March 2006 following an internal dispute,[6]
later establishing his own branch, Aikido Shinwakan ( ).[7] Following Inoue-shihan's departure,
Tsutomu Chida, 8th dan[8] and then-dojocho of Yoshinkan hombu dojo,[9] also broke away, establishing Aikido
Renshinkai ( ) in 2008.[10]

Current Events
As of June 14, 2012, Yasuhisa Shioda has left the position of Kancho of the Yoshinkan, leaving the school without a
headmaster. The present dojo-cho is Chino-shihan.[11]

References
[1] http:/ / www. yoshinkan. net/ indexE. html
[2] Morihei Ueshiba and Gozo Shioda, by Stanley Pranin; Aikido Journal Online 2011/12/06
[3] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=100
[4] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=313
[5] http:/ / www. misogikan. com/ en/ what-is-aikido/ personalities/ 78-interview-with-hanshi-kyoichi-inoue
[6] "Hanshi INOUE KYOICHI" (http:/ / www. misogikan. com/ en/ what-is-aikido/ personalities/ 71-hanshi-inoue-kyoichi). Aikido Renshinkai
Misogikan Dojo. . Retrieved 2 September 2010.
[7] " " (http:/ / www. shinwakan. jp/ ). Aikido Shinwakan. 2010-03-31. . Retrieved 2 September 2010.
Yoshinkan 159

[8] "Aikido, the Yoshinkan way" (http:/ / www. fitnessjp. com/ 025_76_aikido,+ the+ yoshinkan+ way). Fitness Japan. 2008-03-31. . Retrieved 2
September 2010.
[9] "Multimedia > Video Clips > Tsutomu Chida Sensei" (http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ multimedia/ videos/ chida. html). Aikiweb. 1999. .
Retrieved 2 September 2010.
[10] " " (http:/ / www. renshinkai. com/ about-renshinkai/ chida-sensei/ ). Aikido Renshinkai (NPO
). . Retrieved 2 September 2010.
[11] http:/ / www. yoshinkan. net/ cgi-bin/ osirase_e/ cgi/ msgs. cgi?do=jwd& wn=1339762033

External links
(English) Aikido Yoshinkan Head Quarters Dojo (http://www.yoshinkan.net/indexE.html)
Gozo Shioda 160

Gozo Shioda
Gozo Shioda

Gozo Shioda

Born September 9, 1915

Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Died July 17, 1994 (aged78)

Japan

Style Yoshinkan Aikido

Teacher(s) Morihei Ueshiba

Rank 10th dan aikido

Children Tetsutaro Shioda, Yasuhisa Shioda

Notable students Kiyoyuki Terada, Takashi Kushida, Kyoichi Inoue, Thomas Makiyama, Yukio Utada, Tsutomu Chida, Tsuneo Ando,
Michiharu Mori, Yasuhisa Shioda, Takafumi Takeno

Website http:/ / www. yoshinkan. net/

Gozo Shioda ( Shioda Gz, September 9, 1915 July 17, 1994) was a Japanese master of aikido
who founded the Yoshinkan style of aikido.[1][2] He was one of aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba's most senior
students.[2][3][4][5][6] Shioda held the rank of 10th dan in aikido.[1]
Gozo Shioda 161

Early life
Shioda was born on September 9, 1915, in Shinjuku, Tokyo.[1][2][3] His father was Seiichi Shioda, a physician[1] who
also taught judo and kendo.[4] Shioda was a weak child, and reportedly credited his survival to his father's pediatric
skills.[7] While still at school, Shioda trained in judo, attaining the rank of 3rd dan before completing secondary
school.[2][3] He also trained in kendo during his youth.[8]

Aikido career
Shioda began training under the founder of aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, in 1932.[1] His training as an uchi-deshi (live-in
student) under Ueshiba continued for eight years.[1][4][9][10] Shioda was a small man, standing at around 5' 1" to 5' 2"
(155157 cm) and weighing around 102 lb. to 108 lb. (4649 kg).[2][3]
Shioda graduated from Takushoku University in 1941, and was posted to administrative positions in China, Taiwan,
and Borneo during World War II.[1] In one incident in China,[11] he was drinking in a bar with an army friend in
Shanghai when the friend got into an argument with a local gang member. Three of his fellow gang members came
to his assistance. Shioda and his friend were cornered by the gang. In the ensuing fight, Shioda broke the leg of one
of the gang members, the arm of another, and stopped another by punching him in the stomach, all using his aikido
skills.[11] Shioda later described this incident as his 'aikido enlightenment' and wrote that one could only truly
appreciate what aikido was about once one had used it in a life-or-death situation.[11]
Shioda returned to Japan in 1946 and spent several months trying to locate his family on Kyushu.[3] He rejoined
Ueshiba for a month of intensive training, but was forced to dedicate the next few years to earning a living in
post-war Japan.[3] He began teaching aikido in 1950.[1] That year, he taught for the company Nihon Kokan at the
Asano Shipyards in Yokohama.[3] In 1954, he entered the All Japan Kobudo demonstration, and won the prize for
the most outstanding demonstration.[1] This marked a turning point for the growth of aikido. Shioda's performance
attracted sponsorship that enabled him to build an aikido dojo (training hall).[7]
In 1955, Shioda founded the Yoshinkan style of aikido,[1] which
emphasizes self-defense applications.[12] The name "Yoshinkan" was
the name Shioda's father had used for his own judo dojo.[13] According
to biographer Stanley Pranin, this separation from his master's school
has been little understood.[7] Pranin notes that Ueshiba's school
independently recovered later on, so that "there never occurred a
formal split between the two organizations despite their rather different
approaches to aikido. The two groups simply evolved independently
Two years after establishing the Yoshinkan style while maintaining more or less cordial ties."[7]
of aikido, Shioda began a close working
In an interview with Andy Adams for Black Belt magazine, Shioda
association with the Tokyo Metropolitan Police
Department
said, "I don't really feel that I broke away from the mainstream of
aikido since there was nothing to break away from back then. Uyeshiba
sensei (the late Morihei Uyeshiba, founder of aikido) was farming, his son Kisshomaru was working for some
company, and the sensei's aikido dojo at Iwama in Ibaragi Prefecture was being rented out as a dance hall" (p. 34).[3]
Speaking about that same period, Moriteru Ueshiba said, "there was not yet much activity at the Hombu Dojo. For a
time my father [Kisshomaru Ueshiba] was actually in Iwama instead ... starting around 1949, he worked for about
seven years at a company called Osaka Shoji. He had no other choice. Even if you have a dojo, you can't make a
living if nobody is coming to train, which was largely the case after the war. So, he took a job as an ordinary
company employee during the day and taught only in the mornings and evenings."[14]

In 1957, Shioda developed the Senshusei course, an intensive aikido training program,[15] for the Tokyo
Metropolitan Police Department.[1] In 1961, Ueshiba promoted Shioda to the rank of 9th dan.[1] In 1973, Shioda sent
Takashi Kushida, one of his most senior students, to introduce Yoshinkan aikido to the United States of America.[11]
Gozo Shioda 162

Later life
In 1983, Shioda received the 'Hanshi' rank from the International Budo Federation (IBF), followed by the rank of
10th dan from the IBF in 1985.[1] In 1990, together with his son Yasuhisa Shioda, he established the International
Yoshinkan Aikido Federation.[1][8] That same year, he established the international Senshusei program to develop
Yoshinkan Aikido instructors across the world.[1]
Shioda died on July 17, 1994.[1] He wrote a few books on his martial art: Dynamic Aikido (1968, published in
paperback format in 1977),[16] Total Aikido: The master course (1997, co-authored, published posthumously),[17]
and Aikido Shugyo: Harmony in confrontation (2002, published posthumously).[11] Shioda viewed aikido as being
"not a sport but a budo. Either you defeat your opponent or he defeats you. You cannot complain that he did not
follow the rules. You have to overcome your opponent in a way appropriate to each situation."[13]

References
[1] Aikido Yoshinkan: About Gozo Shioda (Yoshinkan Founder) (http:/ / www. yoshinkan. net/ 02contentsE/ shiodagozoE. html) (c. 2009).
Retrieved on February 27, 2010.
[2] Anonymous (1964): "Yoshinkai Aikido Institute." Black Belt, 2(4):5255.
[3] Adams, A. (1974): "Status report: The 'other' Aikido." Black Belt, 12(2):3437.
[4] Zernow, D., & Hadden, J. (1982): "Aikido Yoshinkai: Power and harmony." Black Belt, 20(11):5660, 8487.
[5] Makiyama, T. H. (1983): Keijutsukai Aikido: Japanese art of self-defense (p. 9). Burbank, CA: Ohara. (ISBN 978-0-8975-0092-0)
[6] Kogan, D., & Kim, S.-J. (1996): Tuttle dictionary of the martial arts of Korea, China & Japan (p. 311). Rutland, VT: C. E. Tuttle. (ISBN
978-0-8048-2016-5)
[7] Pranin, S. A. (c. 1987): Morihei Ueshiba and Gozo Shioda (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=71) Retrieved on February 28,
2010.
[8] Pranin, S. A. (c. 2009): The Encyclopedia of Aikido: Shioda, Gozo (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=607) Retrieved
on February 28, 2010.
[9] Allemann, B. (2004): Aikido (p. 13). London: New Holland. (ISBN 978-1-8433-0591-0)
[10] Shioda, G. (1968). "History of Aikido". Dynamic Aikido. Tokyo: Kodansha International. p.13. ISBN4-7700-578-4.
[11] Shioda, G. (2002): Aikido Shugyo: Harmony in confrontation (trans. J. Payet & C. Johnston) (p. 207). Shindokan Books International.
(ISBN 0-9687791-2-3)
[12] Dang, P. T., & Seiser, L. (2003): Aikido basics (p. 22). Boston, MA: Tuttle. (ISBN 978-0-8048-3490-2)
[13] Shioda, G. (1986): An Aikido life (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=217) Aiki News (No. 72, September 1986). Retrieved
on February 28, 2010.
[14] Pranin, S. A. (1999): Interview with Moriteru Ueshiba (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=99) Retrieved on February 28,
2010.
[15] Aikido Yoshinkan: Honbu introduction (http:/ / www. yoshinkan. net/ 02contentsE/ honbuE. html) (c. 2009). Retrieved on February 27,
2010.
[16] Shioda, G. (1977): Dynamic Aikido. Tokyo: Kodansha International. (ISBN 4-7700-0578-4)
[17] Shioda, G., Shioda, Y., & Rubens, D. (1997): Total Aikido: The master course. Tokyo: Kodansha International. (ISBN 978-4-7700-2058-1)

External links
Yoshinkan Aikido (http://www.yoshinkan.net/) (Japanese)
Yoshinkan Aikido (http://www.yoshinkan.net/indexE.html) (English)
 163

Other notable practitioners

Kenshiro Abbe
Kenshiro Abbe
K. Abbe, c. 1963

Born 15 December 1915

Tokushima Prefecture, Japan

Died 1 December 1985 (aged69)

Tokushima Prefecture, Japan
Stroke

Style Aikido, Judo, Kendo, and others

Teacher(s) Kinnosuke Ogawa, Morihei Ueshiba

Rank 8th dan judo, 6th dan aikido, 6th dan kendo, and others

Spouse Keiko Abbe

Children Junko Abbe, Noriko Abbe, Yayoi Abbe

Notable students Henry Ellis

Kenshiro Abbe ( Abe Kenshir, 15 December 1915 1 December 1985)[a] was a prominent
Japanese master of judo, aikido, and kendo.[1] He introduced aikido to the United Kingdom in 1955,[1][2][3][4] and
founded the Kyushindo system.[3][5][6] Abbe was a graduate of the famous Budo Senmon Gakko, having studied
judo and kendo there. Following an illustrious early career in the martial arts, he served in the Imperial Japanese
Army before and during World War II. He then trained in aikido under its founder, Morihei Ueshiba, for a decade.
Abbe held dan ranks in several martial arts, most notably 8th dan in judo, 6th dan in aikido, and 6th dan in kendo.
After introducing aikido to the UK, he established several Japanese martial arts councils there during the late 1950s.
He returned to Japan in 1964 and remained there for most of the remainder of his life. There are contradictory
accounts of Abbe's final years, but it appears that he was in poor spirits and poor health towards the end.

Early life
Abbe was born on 15 December 1915 in a village in Tokushima Prefecture, on the island of Shikoku, Japan.[1][4][5][7]
He was the son of Toshizo Abbe, who was the local school's headmaster and a kendo instructor, and his wife, Kote
Abbe.[1][b] The couple had four sons and five daughters, and Abbe was the youngest child in the family.[5] On 4
September 1919, when Abbe was not yet four years old, his father drowned in a flash flood while training in the
mountains.[1][5] A young schoolteacher, Manpei Hino, subsequently became a father figure for the young boy and
introduced him to the martial arts, including sumo.[5] Abbe went on to become a local school champion in sumo.[1][5]
In 1929, Abbe began learning judo from Kazohira Nakamoto, a former police officer.[1][5] That same year, he was
promoted to the rank of 1st dan in the art and, unusually, he reached 2nd dan the next year, and 3rd dan the year
after that.[1][5] Thus, at the age of 16, he became the youngest judo student ever promoted to 3rd danan honour he
received directly from Shohei Hamano, an instructor of the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai (abbreviated to 'Butoku Kai' or
'Butokukwai'), which was the official governing body for Japanese martial arts.[1][5][8] Abbe also became champion
of the Tokushima High School Judo League that year.[1][5] During his fifth year at the school, Abbe entered a
regional tournament involving 30 towns, serving as captain for the team from the town of Kawashima.[1][7] His
Kenshiro Abbe 164

speed and agility helped him to many victories, and he received the nickname 'Pegasus' accordingly.[7]
At his 1st dan judo examination, Abbe had caught the attention of Shotaro Tobata from the Butoku Kai, who had
been refereeing at the event.[1] Tobata had suggested to Nakamoto and Abbe that the young man should apply for
entry to the renowned Budo Senmon Gakko (abbreviated to 'Busen,' and sometimes referred to as 'Busen College'), a
specialist college for martial artists.[1][5] With the additional help of a teacher named Nakano, Abbe now prepared
for the entrance examination in Kyoto.[5] Out of all the candidates, of which there were around 300 that year, 20
would be accepted into the judo programme and 20 into the kendo programme.[1][5] Abbe performed well and was
accepted into both programmes.[5][7]

Budo Senmon Gakko training

In 1934, Abbe moved to Kyoto with his mother and his sister Toyoka so that he
could attend Busen, training in both the judo and kendo programmes.[1][5] Abbe
learned kendo under the direction of Busen's head sword instructor, Kinnosuke
Ogawa, a master who held the rank of 10th dan.[1][5][9][10] He recalled that his
instructor, at the age of 75 years, was so skilled that he could not be touched by
any of the students or younger instructors.[3] Every Saturday afternoon at Busen,
following tradition, judo tournaments were held.[1][5] Abbe fought five opponents
in succession with each contest lasting five minutes, and he won all or almost all
of these matches.[1][5] In his first year at Busen, he was promoted to 4th dan in
judo.[1][5] In the autumn of his second year there, he was promoted to 5th dan, by
which time he was reported to have been fighting 20 opponents in
succession.[1][5]
Masahiko Kimura was perhaps
Abbe's most famous opponent in In May 1935, Abbe competed in the 5th dan division championship and defeated
judo competition Masahiko Kimura.[1][11] This match was one of only four professional career
losses for Kimura, who was already well known as one of the best judo
competitors in Japan, and would later gain further fame for defeating Hlio Gracie of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.[1][11]
According to biographers Keith Morgan and Henry Ellis, Kimura was heard to remark after the match that fighting
Abbe was "like fighting a shadow."[1] Abbe was listed at 5' 5" (168 cm) in height and 156 lb. (71 kg) in weight at the
time; Kimura was only an inch taller, but much heavier at 187 lb. (85 kg).[12] Two years later, during which time
Kimura trained hard, he sought Abbe out at the Kodokan and soundly defeated him in a 20-minute practice
session.[12]

While at Busen, Abbe also enrolled in Hajime Tanabe's philosophy class at Kyoto University (then known as Kyoto
Teikoku Daigaku, or 'Kyoto Imperial University').[5] During this period, his sister Toyoka began studying the
naginata under a female instructor named Mitamura (in Japan, this martial art has been practised almost exclusively
by women since the Edo period),[13] and she would continue practising that art for the rest of her life.[5]
Following graduation from Busen, Abbe became an instructor in judo at the college, as well as taking instructor
positions with the Osaka police force and a high school in Kyoto.[2] The Butoku Kai promoted him to 6th dan in
judo in 1937.[1][5]
Kenshiro Abbe 165

Military service
In June 1937, Abbe enlisted in the Imperial Japanese Army, and was subsequently posted to a garrison in
Manchuria.[1][5] He served there for four years, during which time he was unable to continue training in judo but was
able to practise kendo.[1][5] While abroad, he began formulating his Kyushindo philosophy.[5] His tour of duty ended
in 1941, and he returned to Kyoto, where he met and married his wife Keiko.[1][5] Abbe did not remain a civilian for
long, however, since Japan entered World War II near the end of that year.
Abbe was assigned to a training unit in Tokushima Prefecture, where he studied and mastered jkend (bayonet).[1]
It was around this time that he first met Morihei Ueshiba, founder of aikido, who had also trained in jkend.[1][14]
Ueshiba was around 60 years old at this time, around twice Abbe's age. Rogers, Ellis, and Eastman (2004) give the
following account of their first meeting:
It was during a train journey in Japan that Abbe first met Ueshiba.
Abbe didn't know who he was and he reacted to Ueshiba looking at
him, saying: "What are you staring at, old man?" Ueshiba replied: "I
know who you are," to which Abbe modestly retorted: "Everyone
knows me, I am Kenshiro Abbe, Champion of All Japan." Ueshiba
then introduced himself as the Founder of Aikido, and was told by
Abbe that he didn't look strong enough to be a martial arts master.
Ueshiba then offered Abbe his little finger, and said: "But young
man, you look very strong indeed. Please break my finger." Abbe at
first declined, but eventually accepted the challenge, presumably to
shut the old man up. Abbe claimed that, as he took hold of the old
Morihei Ueshiba had a profound
man's finger and tried to break it, he found himself on the floor of influence on Abbe's development in
the carriage and totally immobilised. Whilst on the floor Abbe asked the martial arts
Ueshiba for permission to study under him.[15]

Morgan and Ellis (2006) give a slightly different account:

While travelling on a train Abbe noticed an older man staring at him who then asked if he was a 5th Dan
Judo. Abbe replied Why yes, how did you know that? Because you have the build of a 5th Dan. So
who are you? Kenshiro replied: Everyone knows who I am, I am Kenshiro Abbe, Judo champion of all
Japan! Yes, I can see that, the old man replied. The old man continued to talk to Kenshiro much to his
annoyance as he wanted to get some sleep. Eventually, the old man put a finger in Kenshiros face, You
are so powerful, break my finger! Kenshiro was only too happy to oblige. He took the finger, expecting
to snap it like a twig, and wham! He found himself on the carriage floor under the full control of the old
man. The old man allowed Kenshiro to get back into his seat. Who are you? Kenshiro Abbe asked. I
am Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. Kenshiro Abbe was astounded at the technique of the old
man and requested that he become his student.[1]
Abbe studied aikido under Ueshiba for 10 years, eventually reaching the rank of 6th dan in that art.[1][2][8] During
this period, the Abbes had two daughters: Junko and Noriko.[5]
In 1945, the Butoku Kai promoted Abbe to 7th dan in judo and 6th dan in kendo.[1][3][9] Following the end of World
War II, however, the Butoku Kai and Busen were both closed down.[5][8] Abbe took up the position of a judo teacher
for the Kyoto Prefectural Police Department.[1][16] He became Chief Instructor of judo for the Kyoto police, and also
taught at Doshisha University in that city.[5][16] After the Abbes had a third daughter, Yayoi, Abbe resigned from the
Kyoto police.[5] During this period, he felt that judo in Japan was declining, and ended his association with the
Kodokan in the 1950s.[1][5][7]
Kenshiro Abbe 166

Europe
In 1955, Abbe travelled to the United Kingdom.[1][2][5][7][17][18] He
went at the invitation of the London Judo Society (LJS), and was the
first master to teach aikido in the UK.[1][2][19] That year, he
demonstrated aikido at the LJS and at the Royal Albert Hall in
London.[1] Abbe came to experience two problems at the LJS: first, he
felt that the students there were more concerned with competition than
his theories, and second, he felt that the students did not treat him with
the appropriate respect for someone of his rank and experience in the
martial arts.[1] According to the International Budo Council (IBC), he
Royal Albert Hall, where Abbe gave one of the
founded the IBC in 1955.[8][c]
earliest demonstrations of aikido in the UK
Abbe proceeded to teach aikido at his own dojo (training hall),
affectionately known as 'The Hut,' which was located behind a pub in Hillingdon, London.[4][20] Training was
rigorous and, due to Abbe's poor command of English, he would often make corrections by using a shinai (practice
sword) to hit the body part that was out of place; Ellis recalled that Abbe would say, "My English is poor but my
shinai speaks fluently."[21] Abbe's approach to self-defence matched his no-nonsense approach to training, and was
demonstrated when three youths tried to rob him one evening. Geoff Thomson (1998) wrote:

He was walking down a quiet suburban street on his way home after his usual evening teaching session.
He noticed three youths hovering several yards away on the opposite side of the street. When they
approached him he was ready. "Give us your money, or you'll get hurt" said the leader of the three. Abbe
looked at each one in turn, then casually took his wallet out of his jacket pocket, throwing it on the floor
between himself and the antagonists. He pointed to the wallet and said, "I am prepared to die for that
wallet, what about you?" The three would-be attackers looked at the wallet on the floor, then at Abbe
and then at each other and then moved away. Abbe picked up his wallet and calmly walked home.[22]
Speaking about the incident, Ellis said, "Not a lot of love and harmony from Abbe sensei, simply an attitude and
language these thugs understood."[21]
In 1958, Abbe founded the British Judo Council (BJC),[d] and he went on to establish the British Aikido Council,
British Karate Council, British Kendo Council, and British Kyudo Council.[1][2][17] At this stage, he was travelling
extensively through the UK and Europe, and also invited Japanese martial art masters to teach in the UK;[1][9] these
included Mitsusuke Harada (Shotokan karate) and Tadashi Abe (aikido).[16][23] During this period, Abbe's family
remained in Japan. Robinson (2007) wrote, "[he] did invite his family to live with him in London however they
refused, apparently not at all attracted by the life style that Kenshiro offered them in England."[9]
Abbe was involved in a car accident in 1960 which left him with severe neck injuries that had lasting effects on his
health.[1][9] While the precise date is unclear, Abbe had been promoted to 8th dan by late 1960.[24] Independent
sources from the late 1960s include this rank with his name.[25][26] In addition to his ranks in judo, aikido, and
kendo, he held the rank of 5th dan in karate and dan ranks in kyd and jkend.[2]
In 1964, Abbe returned to Japan for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo.[1][5][7][8] While in his homeland, he met with
Ueshiba, updated him on the progress of aikido in the UK, and asked him to send another instructor to the UK to
continue teaching the art.[1] In 1966, Ueshiba sent Kazuo (T. K.) Chiba to the UK to continue the work Abbe had
begun.[1][27][28] Henry O'Tani (2009) has stated that during Abbe's absence from the UK, a dismissed BJC senior
executive and several senior instructors misappropriated his financial and organisational resources and set up their
own BJC group.[19] In 1969, Abbe returned to the UK, but was distraught by the situation with this group that he had
not authorised.[1][8][19][e] When he asked former colleagues to help him rebuild the organisation, they refused; he
subsequently left the UK, never to return.[1]
Kenshiro Abbe 167

Later life
There are contradictory accounts of Abbe's last years in Japan. Morgan and Ellis (2006) state that he lived with his
family for the remainder of his life, while Cavalcanti (2004) and Bagot (2007) claim that there were problems and
that he ended up living apart from his family.[1][5][7] Sources appear to agree, however, that Abbe was in poor spirits
and poor health towards the end of his life.[1][5] He suffered a stroke on 17 November 1985, and was hospitalised.[29]
Abbe died on 1 December 1985 in Japan.[1][4][5][7][29] According to at least two sources, he had chosen to donate his
body for medical education at Saitama University,[7][9] so it was not immediately laid to rest. Abbe's funeral was
held on 10 June 1986 at Zuiganji Temple, located south of Mount Bizan in Tokushima,[30] and he was buried or
commemorated at the family grave there.[5][7][9] Robinson (2007) wrote, "Abbe was the master who introduced
Kendo, Aikido, Karate, Kyodo, Jukendo, Iaido, Yarido and Naginatado to Europe yet he died almost totally alone
and forgotten by most."[9]

Notes
a. The Japanese surname "Abbe" is more typically written in English as "Abe." With regard to Kenshiro Abbe,
however, he himself and most sources use "Abbe." Most sources give 1915 and 1985 as Abbe's years of birth and
death,[1][5][7][9][16] but some sources give slightly different years (e.g., born in 1916 or died in 1989).[2][8][17]
b. Translation of Japanese names into English is not always consistent; where more than one English version exists,
this article uses the more common version, if known.
'c.' Differing accounts exist regarding the organisations that Abbe founded. The people involved, the roles of these
people, and the years of establishment vary depending on the source.
d. The British Judo Council's founding year is most commonly given as 1958,[1][2][16][17] which includes a BJC
source, but other sources have given 1956[5] or 1969.[9] Some sources mention Abbe alone in the founding
role,[2][16][17] while others also mention Masutaro Otani[1] or Bill Woods.[5][9] At least two sources indicate that
Otani founded his own judo school and that this organisation and the BJC merged in 1970.[19][31]
e. According to different sources, Abbe returned to the UK in either 1969[8][9][19] or 1967.[1]

References
[1] Morgan, K., & Ellis, H. (2006): Kenshiro Abbe Sensei 19151985: A man with too many friends (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/
article?articleID=694) (originally published in Martial Arts Illustrated, December 2006). Retrieved on 7 April 2010. This article is not a
verbatim copy of the article in Martial Arts Illustrated; scanned images of that article are available at the British Aikido History Information
Website (http:/ / www. british-aikido. com/ kenshiroabbe/ articles. html#10).
[2] Ellis, H. (c. 2007): Kenshiro Abbe Sensei (http:/ / www. ellisaikido. org/ japan/ kabbe. html) Retrieved on 24 February 2008.
[3] Otani, T. (1967). "Kendo." In J. Goodbody (Ed.): The Japanese Fighting Arts (http:/ / www. kendoglasgow. net/ downloads/ arts. pdf)
(abridged version, pp. 3564). London: Arlington Books. Retrieved on 7 April 2010.
[4] British Aikido History Information Website (http:/ / www. british-aikido. com/ ) (2004). Retrieved on 7 April 2010.
[5] Cavalcanti , K. (c. 2004): Kenshiro Abbe, the Kyu-Shin-Do and Zen Judo (http:/ / www. rrjudo. com/ history/ zenjudo. htm) Retrieved on 7
April 2010.
[6] Wood, R. (c. 2007): Kyushindo Philosophy (http:/ / www. taichido. com/ chi/ kyushindo/ kyuphil. htm) Retrieved on 22 February 2008. Link
updated on 7 April 2010.
[7] Bagot, B. N. (c. 2007): Kenshiro Abbe, 8th Dan, the founder of Kyu Shin Do (http:/ / www. zenjudo. co. uk/ zenjudo/ main_site/
rules_history/ kenshiro. htm) (originally published in Butterfly). Retrieved on 24 February 2008.
[8] International Budo Council United Kingdom (c. 2007): History: Abbe Kenshiro Docho (http:/ / www. ibcuk. com/ History. html) Retrieved
on 22 February 2008. Link updated on 5 June 2010.
[9] Robinson, G. (c. 2007): Kenshiro Abbe Sensei, 8th Dan Judo (http:/ / www. usadojo. com/ biographies/ kenshiro-abbe. htm) Retrieved on 24
February 2008.
[10] Tsunami Yodokan (http:/ / tsuna-midojo. co. uk/ default. aspx) (c. April 2010). Retrieved on 12 May 2010.
[11] Chen, J. (c. 2003): Masahiko Kimura (19171993): The man who defeated Helio Gracie (http:/ / judoinfo. com/ kimura3. htm) Retrieved on
7 April 2010.
Kenshiro Abbe 168

[12] Chen, J., & Chen, T. (2003): Masahiko Kimura (19171993): Ghost of Judo, A modern day Miyamoto Musashi (http:/ / judoinfo. com/
kimura/ masahiko_kimura. htm) Retrieved on 10 April 2010.
[13] Random, M. (1977/1984): The Martial Arts (translated by J. Boothroyd, p. 172). London: Peerage Books. (ISBN 0-907408-96-6)
[14] de Jong, H. (c. 2007): Aikido (http:/ / www. hansdejong. biz/ aikido. htm) Retrieved on 28 February 2010.
[15] Rogers, D., Ellis, H., & Eastman, D. (2004): Positive Aikido. Victoria, Canada: Trafford. (ISBN 1-412-04668-8)
[16] Pranin, S. A. (c. 2007): Encyclopedia of Aikido: Abbe, Kenshiro (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=2) Retrieved on
22 February 2008.
[17] Otani, R. (2007): What is Judo? The BJC perspective (http:/ / www. britishjudocouncil. org/ documents/ what-is-judo-robin-otani-2007. pdf)
(January 2007). Retrieved on 10 April 2010.
[18] Janson, K. (1969): "Martial arts news made in England: Abbe sets course." Black Belt, 7(11):12.
[19] O'Tani, H. D. C. C. (2009): Masutaro O'Tani: A history (http:/ / www. allenglandjudo. co. uk/ wp-content/ uploads/ 2009/ 04/
Masutaro-Otani-a-History-Henry-OTani. pdf) Retrieved on 10 April 2010.
[20] Ellis, H. (c. 2004): British Aikido: Full circle (http:/ / www. british-aikido. com/ aikido full circle. htm) Retrieved on 9 April 2010.
[21] Anonymous (2005): Interview with Sensei Henry Ellis (http:/ / www. british-aikido. com/ articles/ interview-with-henry-ellis. html)
(originally published in MI Magazine, Australia, 4 April 2005). Retrieved on 24 February 2008. Link updated on 7 April 2010.
[22] Thomson, G. (1998): The Art of Fighting without fighting: Techniques in personal threat evasion. Chichester: Summersdale. (ISBN
1-840-24085-7)
[23] de'Claire, J. (c. 2009). Karate-do Shotokai: Harada Sensei, MBE Page 5 (http:/ / www. karatedoshotokai. com/ viewArticle.
php?article=7& page=5) Retrieved on 21 March 2010.
[24] Abbe, K. (1960): Letter to Mr. Mayo (http:/ / myweb. tiscali. co. uk/ soundmanfilms/ mayoshindo_uk/ MrMayoMrAbbe. pdf) (26 August
1960). Retrieved on 9 April 2010. This scanned image is hosted by Mayo's organisation.
[25] Robinson, J. (1967): "The Professor still insists it's so" (Letters to the Editor). Black Belt, 5(4):63.
[26] Baker, E. (1968): "Miss Baker vs. Mr. Redgrave" (Letters to the Editor). Black Belt, 6(1):5.
[27] Lockyear, A. C. (c. 1993): The Challenges of Aikido: Interview with Chiba Sensei (http:/ / www. aikidoonline. com/ articles/
shihankai_articles/ chiba/ Chiba_Challenges_Interview. php) (originally published in Fighting Arts International, no. 70). Retrieved on 10
April 2010.
[28] Ellis, H. (c. 2004): Aikido in the UK: The beginning (http:/ / www. british-aikido. com/ articles/ Aikido-in-th-UK-the-Beginning. htm)
Retrieved on 10 April 2010.
[29] Goldman, J. (c. 2009): Kenshiro Abbe (http:/ / www. devonjudocentres. co. uk/ kenshiro-abbe-photos. htm) Retrieved on 10 April 2010.
[30] Japan Visitor: Tokushima, Shikoku (http:/ / www. japanvisitor. com/ index. php?cID=357& pID=1732) (2000). Retrieved on 10 April 2010.
[31] Belfast Kyushindo: History (http:/ / www. judoni. co. uk/ his. htm) (c. 2009). Retrieved on 10 April 2010.

External links
British Judo Council (http://www.britishjudocouncil.org/)
International Budo Council (http://www.ibcuk.com/)
Kenshiro Abbe Sensei Tribute Website (http://www.british-aikido.com/KAhomepage.htm)
Kodokan Judo Institute (http://www.kodokan.org)
Seiseki Abe 169

Seiseki Abe
Seiseki Abe ( Abe Seiseki) (March 1915 18 May 2011, Osaka, Japan) was a Japanese shodo and
aikido teacher who had a unique relationship with aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba, being both his student in aikido
and his teacher in calligraphy.[1]

Early years
He was introduced to the art of calligraphy by his father in 1934 and became a shodo teacher in 1948, teaching in his
hometown of Osaka. Finding himself in a sort of spiritual crisis early in his calligraphy career, he started training in
misogi under Kenzo Futaki, director of the Misogi no Renseikai ("Misogi Training Society"), who happened to be a
former student of Morihei Ueshiba. Futaki advised him to learn aikido.[2]

Seiseki Abe and Morihei Ueshiba

Abe met Morihei Ueshiba at the inauguration of the aikido dojo of Bansen Tanaka in Osaka in 1952 and began
training immediately. He was particularly struck by the similarity between the breathing technique used in aikido,
misogi and shodo and arrived to the conclusion that the three arts are pursuing the same ultimate goal - the
comprehension of the concept of ki. He studied aikido under Ueshiba for many years while perfecting his shodo
technique. Ueshiba gradually took interest in calligraphy and one day asked Abe to teach him shodo (around 1954).
A very special relationship developed between the two men and from 1959 until his death, Ueshiba would regularly
come to stay at Abe's home in Osaka to learn calligraphy and teach aikido at the traditional dojo Abe built for him
just next to his house (the Ameno Takemusu Juku Dojo).[3] Abe was verbally awarded the grade of 10th dan by
Ueshiba, although the Aikikai only recognized him as 8th dan.

Later career
After the death of Ueshiba in 1969, Abe continued to teach both shodo and aikido at his dojo in Osaka. He had
formed over 200 shodo shihan and had about 3000 students in the Kansai region as well as in the United States (New
York, Los Angeles) and in Australia. He is an active member of the Nitten, the most important art organization in
Japan. In aikido, one of his most notable former students is the movie actor and martial artist Steven Seagal.
Abe is the author of the large "Aiki Jinja" stone carving at the Aiki Jinja shrine in Iwama.

References
[1] Aikido Doshinokai (http:/ / www. doshinokai. com/ abe_bio. htm)
[2] Interview with Seiseki Abe (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=151)
[3] (Japanese) Interview With Seiseki Abe (http:/ / www. page. sannet. ne. jp/ shun-q/ INTERVIEW-E. html)

External links
(Japanese) Demonstrating ki on Japanese TV (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xf5tBAB3YRc)
Tadashi Abe 170

Tadashi Abe
Tadashi Abe ( Abe Tadashi) (1926 - November 23, 1984)[1] was the first aikido master to live and teach
in the west. He is considered by O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba and his students as the "Happy Aikidoka" because he was
always smiling when he trained. He began training in Aikido in Osaka in 1942 and went on to train directly under
the founder of the art Morihei Ueshiba at Iwama as an uchideshi during World War II.[1] In 1952, after graduating in
law from Waseda University, he moved to France where he studied law at the Sorbonne and taught aikido as a 6th
Dan representative of Aikikai Honbu. After seven years he returned to Japan.
Aikido had been introduced into France a year earlier by Minoru Mochizuki during a visit, but it was Tadashi Abe's
teaching at the judo dojo of Mikonosuke Kawaishi where aikido was first taught on a regular basis in the west.
During this time he made several trips to the UK to aid Kenshiro Abbe in a similar venture in that country.
Upon his return to Japan, Tadashi Abe was famously very vocal concerning the direction aikido had gone. He felt it
had lost its roots and had become effeminate, and thus was no longer the same bud he had studied under Morihei
Ueshiba.[2] In his beginning years in aikido, Abe-sensei had been very keen on ascertaining the martial effectiveness
of the art.[3] He wrote two books on aikido in French language, and a scathing letter in critique of Koichi Toheis
decision to break from the Aikikai and start his own Ki Society.[1]

External links
The Principle Disciples of Ueshiba Morihei [4]
Tadashi Abe Memorial site [5]

References
[1] "ABE, TADASHI" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=4). aikidojournal.com. . Retrieved 8 September 2010.
[2] "TADASHI ABE SENSEI: Pioneer of Aikido in France and Europe" (http:/ / www. usadojo. com/ biographies/ tadashi-abe. htm).
usadojo.com. . Retrieved 8 September 2010.
[3] Pranin, Stanley (September 1986). "Reminiscences Of Minoru Mochizuki" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=369).
aikidojournal. . Retrieved 8 September 2010.
[4] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ images/ catalog/ ch01_full. jpg
[5] http:/ / tadashi-abe. blogspot. com/
Kazuo Chiba 171

Kazuo Chiba
Kazuo Chiba ( aka T.K. Chiba, born February 5, 1940, Tokyo) is an aikido teacher from Japan who
has spent a considerable part of his teaching career in the United Kingdom and United States. He is an 8th dan in the
aikido organisation Aikikai, and founder of dojos in London and San Diego, California. He is also the founder of an
international aikido federation known as Birankai International [1]. In the aikido world, Chiba is sometimes known as
a representative of the "hard" or "tough" side of aikido, with a strong emphasis on weapons training. In 2006, he
announced his gradual retirement.

Biography
Chiba was born February 5, 1940 in Tokyo. At 14 years of age, he began serious judo training at the International
Judo Academy. He began the study of Shotokan karate at age 16. Dissatisfied with the martial arts he had studied, he
began searching for the art which would satisfy his yearning.
In 1958 he found aikido and began seven intensive years of live-in study as an uchideshi with aikido founder
Morihei Ueshiba, at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo. Chiba became a close disciple of Ueshiba, travelling with him as his
personal assistant during most of this seven-year period. During this time, he also studied iaido. By 1960, Chiba
earned the rank of 3rd dan, and was assigned to Nagoya to establish a branch school and serve as its full-time
instructor. In 1962, he earned 4th dan and began teaching at the Hombu Dojo. Within three years, during which he
taught at many local universities, Chiba completed his training as uchideshi, earning promotion to 5th Dan.
On the instruction of Morihei Ueshiba, Chiba moved to Sunderland, England, in 1966. After a few months he moved
to London where in 1967 he established London Aikikai. In 1968 he formed the Aikikai of Great Britain (later
renamed British Aikido Federation [2] in accordance with International Aikido Federation guidelines) with London
Aikikai as its headquarters. In 1970, he received 6th dan and was awarded the title of shihan.
In 1975, Chiba returned to Japan to serve as Secretary of the International Department at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo.
During this time he also studied zen meditation in Shizuoka Prefecture.
In 1981, Chiba accepted an invitation from the United States Aikido Federation [3] to move to San Diego, California,
where he formed the San Diego Aikikai. Currently he is Chairman of the Teaching Committee of Birankai
International.

External links
Official San Diego Aikikai Homepage - USA [4]
Official Birankai International Homepage [1]
British Birankai [1]
1995 interview with Aikido Journal [5]

References
[1] http:/ / www. birankai. org/
[2] http:/ / www. bafonline. org. uk/
[3] http:/ / www. usaikifed. com/
[4] http:/ / www. sdaikikai. com
[5] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=251
Terry Dobson 172

Terry Dobson
Terry Dobson
Born 9 June 1937
Cambridge, Mass.

Died 2 August 1992 (aged55)

Inverness, California

Occupation Aikido teacher and writer

Terry Dobson birthname Walter Norton Dobson III[1] (1937-1992) was an American aikido pioneer, aikido teacher
and writer. Dobson is one of the Western aikido practitioners who studied directly under the founder of aikido,
Morihei Ueshiba.

Early life
Born in Cambridge, Mass. to a wealthy family on June 9, 1937 and moving to New York City in 1940, Terry had a
tumultuous childhood. Raised by his alcoholic mother and stepfather, he did not meet his real father, who had been
disgraced after it was discovered that he forged his degree to get into Harvard Business School, until his late teens.
Terry went to the Buckley School and then Deerfield Academy, both prestigious private schools, where he excelled
at American football. After receiving a scholarship to play at Franklin & Marshall, he quickly failed out and trained
for a summer with the New York Football Giants under Vince Lombardi, the line coach at the time. He was a U.S.
Marine doing helicopter maintenance during the Lebanon crisis of 1958, and attended New York University for a
brief period. In 1959 he went to Japan to assist in rural development and teach English.

Discovering aikido
During a visit to Tokyo, Dobson witnessed a demonstration of what was then the little known martial art aikido on
an American military base in Yokohama. He instantly fell in love with the art and six months later entered the
Aikikai Hombu Dojo as an uchi-deshi (live-in student), and trained as uchi-deshi until his marriage in 1964. He was
one of only two non-Japanese to enjoy this privilege during that early era, the other being Andr Nocquet. He
continued to train at the Hombu Dojo until Ueshiba's death in 1969.

Spreading Aikido in the U.S.

In 1970 Dobson returned to the U.S. where he gave seminars around the country and with Ken Nisson co-founded
Bond Street Dojo [2] in New York City and Vermont Aikido [3] in Burlington, Vermont. In 1979 he moved to San
Francisco, California and became involved with Robert Bly and his Mythopoetic men's movement, still teaching
aikido as a visiting sensei.

Death
In 1984 he became ill with what was misdiagnosed as sarcoidosis and moved to Vermont to recover. His teaching
trailed off and eventually stopped as he became weaker and weaker. After a change in medication his health
improved and he started teaching again in Vermont. Though not fully healthy, he flew to California to give a Men's
Conference and teach aikido in 1992. After teaching a class in San Francisco, he fell into a coma. On August 2,
1992, he died in an ambulance in Inverness, California of a heart attack. Dobson is survived by his son Daniel,
daughter Marion, and partner Riki Moss.
Terry Dobson 173

Books
Miller, Victor B.; Terry Dobson (1978). Giving in to get your way: the attack-tics system for winning your
everyday battles. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN0-440-03247-4.
Miller, Victor B.; Terry Dobson (1993). Aikido in Everyday Life: Giving in to Get Your Way. Richmond, Calif:
North Atlantic Books. ISBN1-55643-151-1.
Jan E. Watson; Terry Dobson; Riki Moss (1994). It's a Lot Like Dancing: An Aikido Journal. Frog Ltd.
ISBN1-883319-02-1.
Riki Moss with Terry Dobson (2009). An Obese White Gentleman In No Apparent Distress. Blue Snake Books.
pp.325. ISBN978-1-58394-270-3. A novel based on the writings and recordings of Terry Dobson

References
[1] Mother Jones Magazine Mar-Apr 1993 page 30
[2] http:/ / www. bondstreet. org/
[3] http:/ / www. vermontaikido. org/

Toshikazu Ichimura
Toshikazu Ichimura (born December 12, 1941)[1] is a Japanese aikido teacher who lived in Sweden from 1966 to
1986, and was the teacher responsible for aikido in Sweden during this time. He also was the responsible teacher in
Denmark and in Finland, had importance for the development of iaido in these three countries, and was the first to
give aikido demonstrations in Finland. Ichimura holds 6th dan in the aikido organisation Aikikai, a rank he received
in 1977, and 6th dan renshi in iaido since 1965. Besides, and in connection to, his teaching in Japanese martial arts
he also taught macrobiotics and the Japanese system of sound mysticism, kototama.

Personal history
Ichimura started in aikido in 1955, at Aikikai Hombu dojo in Tokyo with Shoji Nishio as his main teacher. In 1961
he went to the Toyo University, where he started a university dojo. In 1966 he moved to Stockholm, since Jan Beime
and a few other people had asked Hombu to send an aikido teacher there. To start with Ichimura was based in
Beime's dojo, Stockholm Aikikai, and later at Minnano. He also travelled, teaching in many different dojos in the
Stockholm area. In 1968 he moved to Uppsala, roughly 70 kilometres north of Stockholm, where he started a new
dojo in cooperation with the local YMCA. The dojo has since changed name, and is nowadays often referred to as
Uppsala Aikikai. In the years to come Ichimura taught in Uppsala as well as in Stockholm and other places in
Sweden, and also taught seminars in Finland, Denmark and Poland.

Legacy
Among the traces he left in Swedish aikido are a connection between aikido and iaido; most of the older aikido
practitioners in the country have done also iaido. The part of Scandinavian aikido who do Nishio's type of aikido
originally had this connection from Ichimura. Ichimura also wrote two of the first aikido books in Swedish, Aikido
and Aikido och fred (literally "Aikido and peace").
In 1986, Ichimura returned to Japan, leaving Sweden without a Japanese teacher in charge while Yasuo Kobayashi
took responsibility for Finland, and Nishio for Denmark. Ichimura no longer does aikido,[1] but has a shiatsu clinic in
Kobe. However, in connection with the 50 years jubilee in 2011 for aikido in Sweden, Ichimura made a temporary
comeback. At the jubilee training camp in Stockholm in September he instructed on a training session and
terminated the performance session during the camp.
Toshikazu Ichimura 174

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley. "ICHIMURA, TOSHIKAZU" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=282). aikidojournal.com. . Retrieved
2010.

External links
Stenudd, Stefan: Aikido - den fredliga kampkonsten (literally "Aikido - the peaceful martial art"). Arriba 1998,
ISBN 91-7894-018-4 (Swedish)
Pranin, Stanley: The entry Ichimura, Toshikazu (http://www.aikidojournal.com/encyclopedia.
php?entryID=282) in Encyclopedia of Aikido accessed April 30, 2006
Aikido books of interest (http://www.stenudd.com/aikido/aikibook.htm) Stenudd on Ichimura's aikido books
accessed April 30, 2006 (Swedish)
Danish Aikikai (http://www.aikikai.dk/hv_aikikai.htm) accessed April 30, 2006 (Danish)
Finland Aikikai (http://www.finland-aikikai.fi/english/aikido.php?sivu=aikido_finland.php&osa=aikido)
accessed April 30, 2006
History of Finnish Iaido Federation (http://www.iaido.fi/Iaido/history.html) accessed April 30, 2006
(Swedish) Aikidon i Sverige - fyra decennier (http://www.arriba.se/budo/Sverige.pdf) (pdf) by Stefan
Stenudd
Tetsuro Nariyama 175

Tetsuro Nariyama
Tetsuro Nariyama
Nariyama Tetsuro
Born November 21, 1947
Yamadera, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan

Nationality Japanese

Style Aikido

Teacher(s) Kenji Tomiki and Hirokazu Kobayashi

Rank 8th dan Aikido

Tetsuro Nariyama ( born November 21, 1947) was born in Yamadera, Yamagata Prefecture and is a
Japanese aikido teacher, the technical director of the Japan Aikido Association and chief instructor (Shihan) of the
Shodokan Hombu Dojo in Osaka, Japan.
He was appointed to the latter position by the creator of this style Kenji Tomiki, one of Morihei Ueshiba's first
uchi-deshi. At 8th Dan he is the highest-ranking Shodokan instructor in the world and travels internationally to teach
aikido.
In addition to his studies with Kenji Tomiki he lived as uchideshi to Hirokazu Kobayashi for six years effectively
learning aikido from the founder of aikido Morihei Ueshiba's first and last generation deshi. During that time he
introduced Tomiki's randori method to university aikido clubs under Kobayashi's control.
He has co-authored the book Aikido Tradition and the Competitive Edge with Fumiaki Shishida.[1]

External links
Shodokan Honbu profile of Tetsuro Nariyama [2]
Aikido Journal Encyclopedia entry for Tetsuro Nariyama [3]
Aikido Journal Encyclopedia Interview with Tetsuro Nariyama [4]

Videos
Tetsuro Nariyama with Sakai as uke [5]
Tetsuro Nariyama with Sato as uke [6]

References
[1] Aikido Tradition and the Competitive Edge (http:/ / www. amazon. co. uk/ exec/ obidos/ ASIN/ 0964708329), amazon.com
[2] http:/ / homepage2. nifty. com/ shodokan/ en/ profile4. html
[3] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=502
[4] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article?articleID=109
[5] http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=HbIyAF48zFM
[6] http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=c1QAv0FIQyE& N
Hitohiro Saito 176

Hitohiro Saito
Hitohiro Saito
Sait Hitohiro

Hitohiro Saito sensei with students at the 2008 Bath aikido seminar

Born February 12, 1957

Iwama, Japan

Nationality Japanese

Style Aikido

Teacher(s) Morihei Ueshiba and Morihiro Saito

Hitohiro Saito ( Sait Hitohiro, born 12 February 1957 in Iwama) is an aikido instructor and founding
headmaster of Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai.[1] Hitohiro is the son of Morihiro Saito. At age of seven,[2] he
started to learn aikido from Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of aikido, who cared for him as a grandson. After Ueshiba
died in 1969, he continued his practice with his father. The younger Saito became official instructor of the Iwama
dojo in 1986 and remained so until 2004 when he separated from the Aikikai organization and formed his own
group. Since 2009 he is also identified as Hitohira ( ) Saito.[3]

Personal history
Years before his father's death, Hitohiro took over the main work at the Founder's dojo and Shrine of Aiki, Aiki
Jinja, thus relieving his aging father of the great amount of work required in running the campus. His father spent his
last years taking care of the vegetable gardens and travelling abroad for seminars. The main teaching of the dojo was
passed to Hitohiro's hands and remained so until 2004. In 2000, he inaugurated his own dojo, the Tanrenkan (
), sponsored by his father Morihiro Saito. Upon his father's death, Hitohiro inherited his house and his dojo, built
in 1990.
Hitohiro Saito 177

Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai

Hitohiro Saito is the founder and leader (Kaicho) of a traditional Iwama style aikido organization. It is named
Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai ( , lit. Iwama spiritual aiki drill association). It
has dojo in about 20 countries.[4]
With the passing of Morihiro Saito (13 May 2002), Hitohiro Saito initially continued to govern the Founder's dojo
and the Temple of Aikido, Aikijinja. He had also prepared to surrender these roles to the Aikikai, which own those
properties.[5] However, the doshu also asked for the Iwama Ryu grading certificates to cease, and in return Hitohiro
asked for the Aikikai to announce in publication that the founder's original style is preserved at Iwama.[5] The latter
did not occur, and Hitohiro also came under pressures within the Iwama group.[5] In November 2003, Hitohiro
separated from the Aikikai.[5] By February 2004 he had formed his own organisation (ISSASK).
While a number of Morihiro Saito's students preferred to remain affiliated with the Aikikai, others decided to follow
Hitohiro Saito upon his break from the organization. Today he teaches full time at his own Tanrenkan and travels
constantly inside Japan and around the world, instructing at seminars attended by hundreds of aikido students.

Aikido style
His Aikido is known for being precise, austere and dynamic; he emphasizes aiki-j and aiki-ken. As a teacher he is
demanding, always insisting in the deep studies of the bases of Aikido as the only way to get to understand the
Aikido of the Founder and of his father Morihiro Saito.

Personal life
Hitohiro Sensei is also a professional chef, calligrapher, painter, and sculptor. In his atelier he carves mostly
traditional Japanese masks and shishigashira ( lion mask). His wife and children also practice daily at his
dojo.

References
[1] Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai (http:/ / www. iwamaaikido. com/ english/ information/ )
[2] Aikido Journal interview with Hitohiro Saito (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=95)
[3] Hitohiro SAITO Sensei (http:/ / aiki-dojo. fr/ english/ hitohiro-saito-sensei-2. html), Aiki Dojo.
[4] Iwama Shin-shin Aiki Shuren-kai has about 17 affiliated dojos within Japan, and also advertises dojo in USA, Italy, Belgium, Denmark,
England, France, Germany, Portugal, Philippines, Russia, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Chile and Venezuela. (http:/ / www.
iwamaaikido. com/ english/ affiliate/ ) Furthermore, dojos in the UK, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Dominican Republic, Per and Georgia
assert themselves to also be affiliated.
[5] Formal statement by Hitohiro Saito regarding separation from Aikikai (translation and original) (http:/ / www. iwama-ryu-tr. org/ eng/
statement. html)

External links
Iwama Shin-Shin Aiki Shuren-kai (http://www.iwamaaikido.com)
Steven Seagal 178

Steven Seagal
Steven Seagal

Seagal in 2012.

Born Steven Frederic Seagal

[1]
April 10, 1952
Lansing, Michigan, U.S.

Other names Chungdrag Dorje, Takeshigemichi

Style Aikido

Rank 7th degree black belt in Aikido

Years active 1987present

Occupation Actor, film producer, martial artist, musician, writer, reserve deputy sheriff

Spouse Miyako Fujitani (197586)

Adrienne La Russa (198487)
Kelly LeBrock (198796)
Erdenetuya Seagal (ne Batsukh) (2009present)

Children 7 (including Ayako Fujitani)

Website [2]
stevenseagal.com

Steven Frederic Seagal[3] (born April 10, 1952)[1] is an American action film star, producer, writer, martial artist,
guitarist and reserve deputy sheriff. A 7th-dan black belt in Aikido, Seagal began his adult life as an Aikido
instructor in Japan.[4] He became the first foreigner to operate an Aikido dojo in Japan.[5]
He later moved to the Los Angeles, California, area where he made his film debut in 1988 in Above the Law. By
1991, he had starred in three successful films, and would go on to achieve greater fame in Under Siege (1992), where
he played Navy SEALs counter-terrorist expert Casey Ryback. However both On Deadly Ground (1994, which he
directed) and Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995) did poorly in theaters. During the later half of the 90s, he starred
in three more theatrical films and a direct-to-video The Patriot. Aside from Exit Wounds (2001) and Half Past Dead
(2002), his career shifted almost entirely to direct-to-video films (often low budget productions and shot in Europe or
Asia). Between 1998 to 2009, he appeared in a total of 22 of these. At the age of 59, he returned to the big screen as
Torrez in the 2010 film Machete. As of 2011, he's currently busy with the third season of his reality show Steven
Seagal: Lawman.
Steven Seagal 179

Seagal is also a recording artist and guitarist and the founder of Steven Seagal Enterprises.[6] In addition to his
professional achievements, he is also known as an environmentalist, an animal rights activist and a supporter of the
14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso, and the Tibetan independence movement.

Early life
Seagal was born in Lansing, Michigan, where he lived until he was five years old. His mother, Patricia (19302003),
was a medical technician, and his father, Samuel Steven Seagal (19281991), was a high school math teacher.[7] His
mother was of Irish ancestry and his father was Jewish.[8] In a Russian interview, Seagal once stated that he had a
Mongolian grandfather (either Buryat or Kalmyk).[9] His parents relocated to Fullerton, California, where Seagal
attended Buena Park High School in Buena Park.

Aikido
Seagal moved to Japan in his late teens and became the first foreigner to operate an aikido dojo in Japan.[10] He was
trained by Harry Ishisaka and received 1st dan degree (Shodan) under the direction of Koichi Tohei. He continued to
train in aikido as a student of Seiseki Abe, Koichi Tohei (whose aikido organization, Ki Society, Seagal refused to
join in favor of staying with the Aikikai), Kisaburo Osawa, Hiroshi Isoyama and the second doshu Kisshomaru
Ueshiba. He attained a 7th dan degree and Shihan in aikido.
When Seagal's father-in-law retired from his job as an instructor, Seagal became the new head of the organization
known as Tenshin Aikido in Js, Osaka City (affiliated with the Aikikai). Seagal is known by his students as Take
Sensei. When Seagal left his dojo in Osaka, his then-wife Miyako became the caretaker of the dojo which has
continued to the present day. Seagal initially returned to Taos, New Mexico, with his student (and later film
stuntman) Craig Dunn, where they opened a dojo, although Seagal spent much of his time pursuing other ventures.
After another period in Japan, Seagal returned to the U.S. in 1983 with senior student Haruo Matsuoka. They opened
an aikido dojo, initially in Burbank, California, but later moved it to the city of West Hollywood. Seagal left
Matsuoka in charge of the dojo, which he ran until the two parted ways in 1997.
Initially, he worked as the martial arts coordinator for the films The Challenge (1982) starring Scott Glenn and
Toshir Mifune, and Never Say Never Again (1983) starring Sean Connery and A View to a Kill starring Roger
Moore.
He has helped train Brazilian mixed martial artists Anderson Silva and Lyoto Machida. Silva, who is the reigning
UFC Middleweight Champion, went on to knock out Vitor Belfort with a kick, in their fight at UFC 126 in February
2011,[11][12] and Machida also credited him for helping him perfect the crane kick that he used to knock out Randy
Couture at UFC 129 in May 2011.[13][14]

Hollywood career

1990s
In 1987, Seagal began work on his first film, Above the Law (titled Nico in Europe), with director Andrew Davis and
reportedly as a favor to a former aikido student, the agent Michael Ovitz, who believed he could make anyone a
star.[15] Following its success, Seagal made three more movies Hard to Kill, Marked for Death, and Out for Justice
that were box office hits, making him an action hero. Later, he achieved wider, mainstream success in 1992 with
the release of Under Siege (1992). That film reunited Seagal with director Andrew Davis, and was a blockbuster in
the U.S. and abroad, grossing $156.4 million worldwide.[16]
Seagal then directed On Deadly Ground (1994). This film, in which he also starred, emphasized environmental and
spiritual themes, signaling a break with his previous persona as a genre-ready inner-city cop. The film featured
Michael Caine as well as R. Lee Ermey and Billy Bob Thornton in minor supporting roles.
Steven Seagal 180

Following the general critical disappointment of On Deadly Ground,[17] Seagal filmed a sequel to one of his most
successful films, Under Siege, titled Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995), and cop drama The Glimmer Man
(1996). In 1996, he had role in the Kurt Russell film Executive Decision, in which he played a special ops soldier
who only appears in the film's first 45 minutes. He subsequently made another environmentally conscious film, Fire
Down Below (1997), wherein he was an EPA agent fighting industrialists dumping toxic waste in the Kentucky hills,
but the movie was commercially unsuccessful. This film ended his original multi-picture contract with Warner Bros.

Direct-to-video work
The next year, Seagal made The Patriot, another environmental thriller which was his first direct-to-video release in
the United States (though it was released theatrically in most of the world). Seagal produced this film with his own
money, and the film was shot on-location on and near his farm in Montana.
After producing Prince of Central Park, Seagal returned to cinema screens with the release of Exit Wounds in March
2001. The film had fewer martial arts scenes than Seagal's previous films, but it was a commercial success, taking
almost $80 million worldwide. However, he was unable to capitalize on this success and his next two projects were
both critical and commercial failures. Ticker co-starring Tom Sizemore and Dennis Hopper, and filmed in San
Francisco before Exit Wounds, went straight to DVD while Half Past Dead, starring rap star Ja Rule, made less than
$20 million worldwide.
All of the films Seagal has made since the latter half of 2001 have been released direct-to-video (DTV) in North
America, with some theatrical releases to other countries around the world. Seagal is credited as a producer and
sometimes a writer on many of these DTV movies, which include Black Dawn, Belly of the Beast, Out of Reach,
Submerged, Kill Switch, Urban Justice, Pistol Whipped, Against the Dark, Driven to Kill, A Dangerous Man, Born to
Raise Hell and The Keeper, a movie released in Japan fifteen weeks earlier than the United States.[18]
Steven Seagal 181

Return to the big screen and television work

In 2009, A&E Network premiered the reality television series; Steven Seagal: Lawman, focusing on Seagal as a
deputy in Louisiana. In 2010, Seagal appeared in his first theatrically released film in nearly a decade, as the main
villain in Robert Rodriguez' Machete. In 2011, Steven Seagal produced and starred in a 13 episode television series
entitled True Justice.

Other ventures

Music
In addition to acting and aikido, Seagal also plays the guitar, and his
songs have been featured in several of his movies (such as Fire Down
Below and Ticker). In 2005, he released his first album, Songs from the
Crystal Cave, which has a mix of pop, world, country and blues music.
It features duets with Tony Rebel, Lt. Stichie, Lady Saw, and Stevie
Wonder. The soundtrack to Seagal's 2005 film Into the Sun features
several songs from the album. One of his album tracks, "Girl It's
Alright", was also released as a single in parts of the world alongside
an accompanying music video created for it.

Seagal's second album, titled Mojo Priest, was released in April 2006.
Subsequently, he spent summer 2006 touring the United States and
Europe with his band, Thunderbox, in support of the album.

Law enforcement work

Seagal is currently a Reserve Deputy Chief of the Sheriff's Office in
Seagal live in 2007
the community of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. Seagal has a second
home in Louisiana, and spends several months a year there.[19] He
graduated from a police academy in California over twenty years ago and has a certificate from Peace Officer
Standards & Training (POST), an organization that accredits California police officers. In November 2008, A&E
announced that they had begun taping Steven Seagal: Lawman, which follows his work in the Jefferson Parish
Sheriff's Office. The series premiered on A&E on December 2, 2009. Seagal stated that "Ive decided to work with
A&E on this series now because I believe its important to show the nation all the positive work being accomplished
here in Louisianato see the passion and commitment that comes from the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office in this
post-Katrina environment." The series premiere drew 3.6 million viewers, ranking as best season opener for any
original A&E series ever.[20]

On April 14, 2010, the series was suspended by Jefferson Parish, Louisiana Sheriff Newell Normand due to the
sexual trafficking lawsuit filed against Seagal, a case later dropped.[21] A&E resumed the show for the second season
which began on October 6, 2010.
Steven Seagal 182

Business ventures
Seagal Enterprises markets an energy drink known as Steven Seagal's Lightning Bolt, as well as an homeopathic oil
product line.[22] Seagal personally endorses this drink, saying, "I have traveled the world creating this drink; there is
none better that I know."[22] He also has his own aftershave called Scent of Action.
Outside of his film work, Seagal has volunteered, lending his voice as a narrator for an activist film project, Medicine
Lake Video, which seeks to protect sacred tribal ground near his ranch in Siskiyou County.[23]
In 2002, Segal along with Global Village Champions Foundation and founder Yank Barry helped support Father
Joe's orphanage for children with AIDS in Bangkok, Thailand.

Personal life
He owns a dude ranch in Colorado and a home in the Mandeville
Canyon section of Brentwood, a wealthy neighbourhood in Los
Angeles. He has adopted many animals from shelters.[24] Seagal is a
Buddhist.[25] In February 1997, lama Penor Rinpoche from Palyul
monastery announced that Seagal was a tulku, and specifically the
reincarnation of Chungdrag Dorje, a 17th-century terton (treasure
revealer) of the Nyingma, the oldest sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
Seagal's recognition aroused controversy in the American Buddhist
community, with Helen Tworkov commenting in Tricycle to doubt the
extent of Seagal's "spiritual wisdom" and to suggest that Seagal bought
his Buddhahood by donations to Penor's Kunzang Palyul Choling
center. Penor Rinpoche responded to the controversy by saying that
Seagal, although acting in violent movies had not actually killed
people, and that Seagal was merely recognized, whereas enthronement
as a tulku would require first a "lengthy process of study and
practice".[26]

Relationships and family

Seagal has seven children from four relationships:
In Japan Seagal married his first wife, Miyako Fujitani, the daughter of
an aikido instructor. With Fujitani, he had a son, model and actor
Kentaro Seagal, and a daughter, writer and actress, Ayako Fujitani. Seagal in 2008
Seagal left Miyako Fujitani to go back to the United States.[27][28]
In the United States he married former Days of our Lives actress Adrienne La Russa, despite his divorce to Fujitani
not yet being finalized. During his marriage to La Russa he met actress/model Kelly LeBrock, with whom he began a
relationship and who eventually became pregnant with his child. When news of this emerged, Seagal's marriage to
La Russa was annulled and he then married LeBrock on 5 September 1987. His three children with LeBrock are
daughters Annaliza and Arissa, and son Dominic. In 1994, LeBrock filed divorce papers citing "irreconcilable
differences". During this time it emerged that Seagal was having an affair with Arissa Wolf, who was hired to be a
nanny to Seagal and Lebrock's children.[29] Seagal has a daughter with Arissa Wolf, Savannah.

Seagal is currently married to Erdenetuya Batsukh (mong. ), better known as Elle, and with
whom he has a son, Kunzang.[30] Elle is from Mongolia.[31] She trained as a dancer from her early age at the
Children's Palace in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. After her graduation from high school and the Children's Palace, she
pursued a career as a professional dancer. She won numerous dancing contests and she was considered as the top
Steven Seagal 183

female dancer in Mongolia. She particularly excelled in ballroom dance. Erdenetuya first worked as Seagal's
interpreter when he visited Mongolia in 2001.
In addition to his biological children, he is the guardian to a Tibetan child, Yabshi Pan Rinzinwangmo.[32]
Rinzinwangmo, or "Renji", is the only child of the 10th Panchen Lama of Tibet. Renji studied in the United States at
American University, and Seagal was her guardian and bodyguard.[33]
An only son, Seagal has three sisters, one older and two younger. In addition to his seven children, he has two
grandchildren by his eldest son Kentaro Seagal born in 2006 and 2007.[34]

2010 lawsuit
On April 12, 2010, 23-year-old Kayden Nguyen filed a lawsuit against Seagal in Los Angeles Country Superior
Court claiming sexual harassment, illegal trafficking of females for sex, failure to prevent sexual harassment,
retaliation, wrongful termination, and false representation about employment,[35][36] that specified damages
exceeding one million dollars.[35][36][37]
On April 13, 2010, the day after Nguyen made the claims, Seagal's attorney, Marty Singer, released this written
statement to CBS news: "The lawsuit filed by Kayden Nguyen against Steven Seagal is a ridiculous and absurd claim
by a disgruntled ex-employee who was fired for using illegal narcotics."[36] Seagal personally denied the claims, yet
he was forced to suspend his show, Steven Seagal: Lawman, while his attorneys attempted to resolve the case
privately.[35]
On July 14, 2010, three months after Nguyen made her claims against Seagal, the case was voluntarily dismissed by
the plaintiff without any public explanation.[38][39]

2011 lawsuit
On August 30, 2011, Steven Seagal was threatened with a lawsuit over his part in a police raid that was taped for his
A&E reality show. Jesus Sanchez Llovera is seeking $100,000 in damages and wants a "formal written apology"
from Seagal to his children for the death of their puppy, "a beloved family pet". Llovera says his 11-month-old
puppy was shot and killed during the raid and that police also killed more than 100 of his roosters.[40]

Activism
In 2003, Seagal wrote an open letter to the leadership of Thailand, urging them to enact law to prevent the torture of
baby elephants.[41] He has worked with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to discourage the fur
trade, and has written to the Prime Minister of India to seek increased legal protection for cows. Seagal worked
effectively towards saving dogs destined to drown in Taiwan.

Honors
In 1999, Seagal was awarded a PETA Humanitarian Award.[42]

Stunts
Steven Seagal 184

Year Title Role

1982 The Challenge martial arts coordinator

1983 Never Say Never Again martial arts instructor

1985 A View To A Kill martial arts choreographer

1988 Above the Law martial arts coordinator

1990 Hard to Kill martial arts coordinator

Marked for Death martial arts coordinator

Filmography
Year Title Role

1988 Above the Law Nico Toscani

1990 Hard to Kill Mason Storm

Marked for Death John Hatcher

1991 Out for Justice Det. Gino Felino

1992 Under Siege Casey Ryback

1994 On Deadly Ground Forrest Taft

1995 Under Siege 2: Dark Territory Casey Ryback

1996 Executive Decision Lt. Colonel Austin Travis

The Glimmer Man Lt. Jack Cole

1997 Fire Down Below Jack Taggart

1998 The Patriot Dr. Wesley McClaren

1999 Get Bruce (himself)

2001 Exit Wounds Orin Boyd

Ticker Frank Glass

2002 Half Past Dead Sasha Petrosevitch

2003 The Foreigner Jonathan Cold

Out for a Kill Prof. Robert Burns

Belly of the Beast Jake Hopper

2004 Out of Reach William Lansing

Clementine Jack Miller

2005 Into the Sun Travis Hunter

Submerged Chris Cody

Today You Die Harlan Banks

Black Dawn Jonathan Cold

2006 Mercenary for Justice John Seeger

Shadow Man Jack Foster

Attack Force Cmdr. Marshall Lawson

Steven Seagal 185

2007 Flight of Fury John Sands

Urban Justice Simon Ballister

2008 Pistol Whipped Matt Conlin

The Onion Movie Cock Puncher

Kill Switch Jacob

2009 Against the Dark Tao

Driven to Kill Ruslan

The Keeper Roland Sallinger

2009 Steven Seagal: Lawman (himself)

2010 A Dangerous Man Shane Daniels

Machete Torrez

2011 Born to Raise Hell Samuel Axel

2012 Maximum Conviction Cross

2013 Gutshot Straight Paulie Trunks

Discography
2005: Songs from the Crystal Cave
2006: Mojo Priest

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[3] pron.: /sl/.
[4] Goldstein, Patrick (1988-02-14). "Steven Seagal Gets a Shot at Stardom" (http:/ / articles. latimes. com/ 1988-02-14/ entertainment/
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[32] Charles Carreon. "Steven Seagal Comes Out of the Buddhist Closet" (http:/ / finevery. googlepages. com/ stevenseagal. htm). American
Buddha Online Library. . Retrieved 2007-05-24.
[33] Isabel Hilton (2003-04-02). "Buddha's daughter: A young Tibetan-Chinese woman" (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20060630044503/ http:/
/ tibetoffice. org/ en/ index. php?url_channel_id=8& url_publish_channel_id=786& url_subchannel_id=13& well_id=2). The New Yorker.
Archived from the original (http:/ / tibetoffice. org/ en/ index. php?url_channel_id=8& url_publish_channel_id=786& url_subchannel_id=13&
well_id=2) on 2006-06-30. . Retrieved 2006-05-07.
[34] Steven Seagal's eldest son and grandchildren (http:/ / www. tenshindojous. com/ images/ profile. html). Tenshindojous.com (1975-10-03).
Retrieved on 2011-11-19.
[35] "Steven Seagal sued for sexual assault" (http:/ / news. bbc. co. uk/ 2/ hi/ entertainment/ 8619574. stm). BBC. April 14, 2010. . Retrieved
November 6, 2010.
[36] Martinez, Edecio (April 14, 2010). "Kayden Nguyen (NEW PICTURES): I Manipulate Men, Says Steven Seagal "Sex Toy" Accuser" (http:/
/ www. cbsnews. com/ 8301-504083_162-20002440-504083. html). CBS. . Retrieved November 6, 2010.
[37] "Steven Seagal Sued for Sex Trafficking, Assault" (http:/ / www. foxnews. com/ entertainment/ 2010/ 04/ 13/
steven-seagal-sued-sex-trafficking-assault/ ?test=latestnews). Fox News. April 13, 2010. . Retrieved November 6, 2010.
[38] "Steven Seagal sexual harassment case dismissed" (http:/ / www. bbc. co. uk/ news/ entertainment+ arts-10645210). BBC. July 15, 2010. .
Retrieved July 28, 2010.
[39] Steven Seagal's Sex Trafficking 'n' Harassment Suit Dismissed (http:/ / www. eonline. com/ uberblog/
b190475_steven_seagals_sex_trafficking. html). Eonline.com (2010-07-14). Retrieved on 2011-11-19.
[40] Steven Seagal Threatened With Lawsuit Over Police Raid Taped for Reality Show (http:/ / tv. yahoo. com/ news/
steven-seagal-threatened-lawsuit-over-police-raid-taped-192501428. html). Tv.yahoo.com (2011-08-30). Retrieved on 2011-11-19.
[41] Steven Seagal (2003-02-07). "Letter to Prime Minister [[Thaksin Shinawatra (http:/ / www. chuaychangthai. com/ Seagal_thailand. pdf)] of
Thailand by Steven Seagal"] (PDF). . Retrieved 2006-05-07.
[42] Julian C. Dunn (1999-09-18). "Paul McCartney's World Exclusive Performance at PETA's Party Of The Century and Humanitarian Awards"
(http:/ / www. aquezada. com/ sarah/ articles/ prn083099. shtml). The Sea of Waking Dreams. . Retrieved 2006-05-07.
Steven Seagal 187

External links
Official website (http://stevenseagal.com/)
Steven Seagal (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000219/) at the Internet Movie Database

Kenji Shimizu
Kenji Shimizu ( Shimizu Kenji), b. 1940, is an aikido
teacher and founder of the aikido style Tendoryu ( ).[1]
Shimizu was born in 1940 in Fukuoka, Japan. He had been training
judo since childhood and held a 4th dan in this art when he changed to
aikido in 1963. He then became one of the last personal students of the
aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba. After Ueshiba died in 1969, Shimizu,
then with a 7th dan in aikido, founded his own school in Tky named
Tendoryu (School of the Way of Heaven).

Tendoryu Aikido is characterized by its large and clear movements,

emphasizing naturalness and harmonic flow of motion.
Since 1978, Shimizu has regularly held seminars in Germany and other
European countries. A German Tendoryu Society was founded in
1993.
He received the 8th dan aikido from the Japanese Budo Federation in
1998 and has co-authored a book titled Zen and Aikido (ISBN
4-900586-13-7) with Shigeo Kamata. Kenji Shimizu on practice seminary in Novi Sad
Shimizu received an award from the Foreign Minister of Japan on July 2007.

16, 2002 for his work spreading aikido abroad. In the same year he was
invited to the autumn garden party at the imperial palace in Akasaka, Tky.

References
[1] Suenaka, Roy; Watson, Christopher (1997-11-15). Complete aikido: aikido kyohan : the definitive guide to the way of harmony (http:/ /
books. google. com/ books?id=TFphbY5awosC& pg=PA37). Tuttle Publishing. pp.37. ISBN978-0-8048-3140-6. . Retrieved 21 June 2011.

External links
Tendokan Tokyo / Japan (http://www.aiki-tendo.jp) Tendokan Tokyo / Japan
Tendoryu Aikido Federation Germany (http://www.tendoryu-aikido.de) Tendoryu Aikido Federation Germany
Tendoryu Aikido Berlin e.V. (http://www.tendoryu-aikido.org) Tendoryu Aikido Berlin e.V. - translation from
the articles written by Kenji Shimizu sensei.
Tendoryu Aikido - Nederland (http://www.tendoryu.nl) Tendoryu Aikido - The Netherlands
Tendoryu Aikido - Belgi (http://www.aikido-tendoryu.be) Tendoryu Aikido - Belgium
Tendoryu Aikido / Slovenia (http://www.tendoryu-slovenia.si) Tendoryu Aikido / Slovenia
Tendoryu Aikido / Serbia (http://www.tendoryu-serbia.com) Tendoryu Aikido / Serbia
TendoRyu Italy / Italy (http://www.tendoruy.it) Tendoryu Aikido Italy
Tendoryu Aikido / Mexico (http://www.tendoryuaikidomexico.com.mx) Tendoryu Aikido / Mexico
Yasuhisa Shioda 188

Yasuhisa Shioda
Yasuhisa Shioda (Japanese: born 15 November 1952) is the third Ske of Yoshinkan aikido,
succeeding his brother, Tetsutaro Shioda, in keeping with the iemoto tradition in Japanese martial arts. Their father,
Gozo Shioda, founded Yoshinkan aikido. He is also the current Kancho of the headquarters dojo in Shinjuku, Tokyo
and heads both the All Japan Yoshinkan Aikido Federation and the International Yoshinkai Aikido Federation.
He graduated in from the economics faculty of Chuo University and lived in England for 3 years. He actively teaches
aikido in Japan, through published books and travels throughout the world.

Early Life and Career

Yasuhisa Shioda started practicing Aikido at the age of thirteen, training every day. he graduated in 1971 from the
Economics Department of Chuo University in Tokyo. As a member of the Yoshinkan Aikido DOJO he continued to
undergo aikido training with his father the founder of Yoshinkan Gozo Shioda Sensei, and spread aikido by teaching
it in universities, and to police departments, and various organizations. From 1948 he spent three years in England,
and helped establish the basis for the spread of aikido overseas. After returning to Japan he concentrated on teaching
young people, especially nursery school children, originating a unique instruction method that encouraged them to
develop their character through the practice of aikido. He also teaches at the community centers. After Gozo Shioda's
death in 1994, in order to spread his father's legacy throughout the world, he has been teaching aikido and has also
become an author. In 2007, he became the new Yoshinkan Kancho, and also the Third Soke of Yoshinkan Aikido.
These days he trained different students in different age in Dojo that is near from Takadonobaba Station with Other
Professional Sensei(Teacher) like Takafumi Takeno (9th DAN), Tsuneo Ando (8th DAN), Takehiko Sonoda (8th
DAN), Jacques Payet (7th DAN), Susumu Chino (7th DAN), Takayuki Oyamada (7th DAN), etc.

External links
Profile at yoshinkan.net [1]
Interview at aikidojournal.com [2]
Profile at yoshinkan.jp [3]
Some of information from book named "Total Aikido, The Master Course" by Gozo Shioda with Yasuhisa
Shioda.

References
[1] http:/ / www. yoshinkan. net/ 02contents/ y-shioda. html
[2] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=413
[3] http:/ / www. yoshinkan. jp/ english_files/ yasuhisashioda. html
Seiichi Sugano 189

Seiichi Sugano
Seiichi Sugano ( 17 December 1939 29 August 2010) was a Japanese aikido instructor who lived
and taught in many Western countries. He held the rank of an 8th dan Aikikai.
Sugano was born in Hokkaido. Sugano had been learning judo for six years when, around the age of 18, he went to
train in aikido. Sugano entered the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in 1957 and by 1959 was a direct student of Morihei
Ueshiba. In 1965 he was appointed by Ueshiba to introduce aikido in Australia. He remained there for 15 years,
founding the organisation Aiki Kai Australia.[1] At the request of Nobuyoshi Tamura, Sugano went to Europe and
stayed in Belgium, Luxembourg and France. Starting in 1988, he resided in New York City where he co-instructed
with Yoshimitsu Yamada at the New York Aikikai [2].
Sugano maintained regular contact with the Aikikai Hombu Dojo and also the Ueshiba family. He traveled
extensively during the year to give aikido seminars, mainly in Europe and South East Asia. He visited Australia
twice yearly and Malaysia once yearly to conduct the National Training Schools and dan grading. Sugano's aikido
was known for possessing both speed and power. His teaching emphasized timing and distance, within a
fundamental study of basic technique. Weapons instruction followed a more organic style, with very little study of
formal kata. Sugano's weapons instruction focused on correct body positioning (hanmi) and paired practice, which
again emphasized the necessity of timing and distance.
In 2003, Sugano suffered a below the knee amputation,[3] but he continued to teach and demonstrate aikido without
any severe limitation. A medical fund was set up to cover his ongoing medical costs.[4]
Sugano died in New York City on August 29, 2010.[5] The Foundation he established in Australia prior to his death,
continues to promote Sugano Shihan's Aikido legacy internationally.
Three of Sugano's students were promoted to 7th dan on his recommendation: Tony Smibert (Tasmania), Robert
Botterill (Melbourne) and Hanan Janiv (Canberra).[1] They had also been awarded the title of Shihan.

References
[1] Aiki Kai (Australia) (http:/ / aikido. org. au/ ) official website, includes some historical information and "newsletter" magazines. Over 40
dojo, including every capital city.
[2] http:/ / www. nyaikikai. com
[3] NY Aikikai: News about Sugano Sensei (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070813070533/ http:/ / www. nyaikikai. com/ suganonews. htm)
[4] Sugano Sensei Medical Fund (http:/ / web. archive. org/ web/ 20070921081059/ http:/ / www. nyaikikai. com/ suganofund. asp)
[5] Seiichi Sugano Shihan passes away in New York City (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ blog/ 2010/ 08/ 30/
seiichi-sugano-shihan-passes-away-in-new-york-city/ )
Stefan Stenudd 190

Stefan Stenudd
Stefan Stenudd (born 1954 in Stockholm) is one of the most prominent aikido teachers in Sweden, and also active
as writer, astrologist and freelance journalist. He holds 6th dan in the aikido organisation Aikikai, a rank he acquired
in 2003, and 4th dan in Shoji Nishios own iaido system, aikido toho.
Stenudd started his aikido training in the Stockholm suburb Jrflla in 1972. Stenudd along with many others was
close to the resident Japanese aikido teacher Toshikazu Ichimura but also had conflicts with him, which was part of
the reasons for him starting his first own dojo in 1978, in the Stockholm suburb Brandbergen in Haninge. In 1991 he
moved to Malm in southern Sweden, and started aikido there in the big sports and martial arts club Enighet. Beside
his Enighet dojo, he also teaches regularly at several other dojos in the region and teaches seminars in Germany and
the Czech Republic. His technical main influences are the Japanese teachers Ichimura and Nishio, although his style
in many respect is his own. To accompany his aikido he has created his own weapons exercises, among these a series
of iaido-inspired sword work called aikibatto.
He is a member of the grading committee of Aikikai in Sweden, and on the boards of the International Aikido
Federation (IAF) and the Swedish federation for budo and martial arts (Svenska Budo- och Kampsportsfrbundet).
He also was the chairman of Swedish aikido for a couple of years.
As a novelist, Stenudd made his debut in 1979 with the novel Om om. After that he has published a series of novels
as well as books on astrology and Swedish interpretations of the Chinese book of wisdom Tao Te Ching and the
famous samurai Miyamoto Musashi's book on military strategy, The Book of Five Rings. His book on aikido is the
most extensive book on the art in Swedish. In 2008 his own translation of it into English was published. He also is a
graduate student at the Lund university in the history of ideas, and has his own publishing house Arriba that mainly
but not only publishes his own books.

References

Bibliography
Stenudd, S: Aikido - den fredliga kampkonsten (literally "Aikido - the peaceful martial art"). Arriba 1998, ISBN
91-7894-018-4
Stenudd, Stefan (2008). Life Energy Encyclopedia: Qi, Prana, Spirit, and Other Life Forces around the World.
BookSurge. ISBN1-4392-0068-8.
Stenudd, Stefan (2008). Aikido: The Peaceful Martial Art. BookSurge. ISBN1-4196-5879-4.
Stenudd, Stefan (2008). Qi: Increase your Life Energy. BookSurge. ISBN1-4196-2772-4.
Stenudd, Stefan (2007). Aikibatto: Sword Exercises for Aikido Students. BookSurge. ISBN1-4196-5878-6.
Stenudd, Stefan (2007). Cosmos of the Ancients: The Greek Philosophers on Myth and Cosmology. BookSurge.
ISBN1-4196-2773-2.
Stenudd, Stefan (2008). All's End. BookSurge. ISBN1-4196-5285-0.
Stenudd, Stefan (2006). Murder. BookSurge. ISBN1-4196-5186-2.

External links
Stenudd.com (http://www.stenudd.com)
arriba publishing house (http://www.arriba.se/)
Isamu Takeshita 191

Isamu Takeshita
Isamu Takeshita

Commander Isamu Takeshita at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in 1905. Library of Congress Collection

Born 4 December 1869

Kagoshima, Satsuma domain Japan

Died 1 July 1949 (aged79)

Tokyo, Japan

Allegiance Empire of Japan

Service/branch Imperial Japanese Navy

Yearsof service 18891929

Rank Admiral

Battles/wars Russo-Japanese War, World War I

Awards Order of the Rising Sun (1st class)

Isamu Takeshita ( Takeshita Isamu, 4 December 1869 1 July 1949) was an admiral in the Imperial
Japanese Navy. He was also a diplomat whose accomplishments included helping end the Russo-Japanese War
favorably for Japan and obtaining former German possessions in the Pacific for Japan following World War I. In
addition, he was a patron and practitioner of the Japanese martial arts, especially judo, sumo, and aikido.

Early years
Born Yamamoto Jiro into a samurai class family in Kagoshima, Satsuma domain (present-day Kagoshima
prefecture), he was adopted into the Takeshita family as a boy.[1]

Naval and diplomatic career

Takeshita entered the 15th class of the Imperial Japanese Naval Academy in 1892, and he graduated third in a class
of eighty students.[2] He entered naval service as a midshipman in 1889; his first ship was the armored corvette
Kongo. He In 1898, he attended the Japanese Naval War College, which had been founded that same year.
Because he was fluent in English, Takeshita was posted overseas at various times as a naval attach. In October
1902, he was appointed Japan's naval attach to the United States.[2] In this role, Takeshita was an active participant
Isamu Takeshita 192

in negotiations mediated by President Theodore Roosevelt that led to the Treaty of Portsmouth, ending the
Russo-Japanese War. During 1904, he also helped Roosevelt obtain the services of judo teacher Yamashita Yoshiaki,
first for Roosevelt himself and then for the United States Naval Academy.[3] Takeshita's commands included the
cruisers Suma, Kasuga, Izumo, Tsukuba and the battleship Shikishima.[2]
Takeshita was a member of the Japanese diplomatic mission to the United States in 1917,[4] the Paris Peace
Conference of 1919, and the League of Nations. In these positions, he played a leading role in Japan's obtaining
former German holdings in the Central and Western Pacific.[5][6] For these efforts, he was awarded the Order of the
Rising Sun (1st class).[1] Takeshita returned to Japan to accept a posting as commander-in-chief of the Combined
Fleet on 1 December 1922, a position he held until January 1924. His subsequent billets included Commander of the
Kure Naval District. He was placed on the retired list in November 1929.[2]

Activities after retirement

During late summer 1935, Takeshita made his fifth trip to the United States.[7] His mission was to try to explain to
American audiences that Japan's invasion of China in the Second Sino-Japanese War, was to stop the spread of
Communism.[8] As for Japan's relationship with the United States, Takeshita stated that "No Japanese warship has
ever crossed the Pacific except on a mission of peace," he said during a radio broadcast in San Francisco. "No
Japanese soldier has ever come to these shores except on a similar mission."[9]
In February 1937, Takeshita was appointed head of the Japanese Boy Scouts, Sea Scouts, and YMCA. This was part
of the general militarization of Japanese sports and athletics taking place at that time.[10] Later that year, he was also
approached about becoming the head of the Japanese Amateur Athletic Federation, but he declined this offer.[11]
In May 1939, Takeshita became the third president of the Japan Sumo Association.[12] He held this post until
November 1945.[13]
In April 1941, he became head of Japan's New Sword Society. This organization supported makers of modern
Japanese swords that were hand-made in the traditional fashion.[14]
Takeshita died in Tokyo in July 1949.[15] Takeshita Street in Shibuya, Tokyo takes its name from the location of
Isamu Takeshitas residence.

Connection with aikido

Encounter with Morihei Ueshiba

Takeshita first heard of Morihei Ueshiba through his colleague at the Imperial Japanese Naval Academy, Admiral
Seikyo Asano, who was studying Daito-ryu aiki jujutsu (the forerunner of aikido) under Ueshiba at Ayabe. In 1925,
Takeshita went to Ayabe to see Ueshiba and was so impressed that he recommended Ueshiba to Yamamoto
Gonnohyoe, a retired admiral and former Prime Minister of Japan. This recommendation caused Yamamoto to invite
Ueshiba to Tokyo to provide demonstrations to the Japanese military and political elite. Ueshiba's stay was however
interrupted by sickness and he had to return to his hometown of Tanabe.
In February 1927, Takeshita invited Ueshiba to Tokyo again, and this time, Ueshiba settled there.[16] Takeshita's
influence was such that many military officers, government officials and members of the wealthy class began
practicing Ueshiba's martial art. Takeshita was not only an admirer but also an ardent practitioner of aikido, despite
his age (he was almost 50). He filled notebooks with descriptions of Ueshiba's techniques, and these descriptions
provide insights into the development of aikido.[17]
Isamu Takeshita 193

Role in the promotion of aikido

In 1935, Takeshita gave a demonstration of Ueshiba's art at the first Nihon Kobudo Shinkokai (Society for the
Promotion of Japanese Classical Martial Arts) demonstration. Later that same year, Takeshita gave public
demonstrations of aikido in Seattle, Washington and Washington, D.C; this was the introduction of aikido to the
United States.[18]
In 1940, Takeshita was instrumental in providing a legal identity to Ueshiba's Kobukan organization by founding the
Kobukai Foundation and becoming its first president. Also, in 1941, Takeshita used his influence to arrange a
demonstration of aikido by Ueshiba at the Imperial Palace. The demonstration took place in front of the Imperial
family. Although ill, Ueshiba gave a spectacular exhibition, which greatly impressed the nobility.[1]

References
[1] Pranin, Stanley. "Takeshita, Isamu," The Encyclopedia of Aikido (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia. php?entryID=669)
[2] Nishida, Hiroshi. "People: Naval Academy, class 15." (http:/ / homepage2. nifty. com/ nishidah/ e/ index. htm)
[3] Svinth, Joseph R. "Professor Yamashita Goes to Washington" (http:/ / ejmas. com/ jcs/ jcsart_svinth1_1000. htm).
[4] The Imperial Japanese Mission 1917, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, (http:/ / net. lib. byu. edu/ ~rdh7/ wwi/ comment/
japanvisit/ JapanC10. htm); New York Times, October 3, 1917
[5] Gow, I.T.M. Military Intervention in Pre-War Japanese Politics: Admiral Kato Kanji and the 'Washington System'. London: Routledge, 2004,
p. 71. (http:/ / books. google. com/ books?id=VlZYAMPrC9wC& pg=PA76& lpg=PA76& dq="league+ of+ nations"+ takeshita+ admiral&
source=web& ots=GBuE2immOl& sig=MzUKaan2AZmSAkpRichRIsy3IVs#PPA77,M1)
[6] Peattie, Mark R. Nan'yo: The Rise and Fall of the Japanese in Micronesia, 1885-1945. Honolulu: University of Hawai'i, 1988, p.50. (http:/ /
books. google. com/ books?id=DHxdSkoo4AMC& pg=RA1-PA50& lpg=RA1-PA50& dq="league+ of+ nations"+ takeshita+ admiral&
source=web& ots=8YtN9bsHeu& sig=Xa2bplPlqJ-q8s7UNwkI1J2x7Zc)
[7] New York Times, September 5, 1935.
[8] Japanese-American Courier, August 31, 1935, p. 1; Great Northern Daily News, September 7, 1935, p. 8; New York Times, September 25,
1935; New York Times, September 27, 1935.
[9] Great Northern Daily News, September 5, 1935, p. 8.
[10] Abe, Ikuo, Kiyohara,Yasuharu, and Nakajima, Ken. "Sport and physical education under fascistization in Japan," Bulletin of Health and
Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 13, 1990, pp. 25-46. (http:/ / ejmas. com/ jalt/ jaltart_abe_0600. htm)
[11] Japan Times and Mail, December 17, 1936, p. 5.
[12] Japan Times and Mail, May 4, 1939 (http:/ / www. juryo. net/ newspaper/ 1930/ 19390504J. htm)
[13] Nippon Times, November 28, 1945, p. 3 (http:/ / www. juryo. net/ newspaper/ 1940/ 19451128J. htm)
[14] Nippon Times, April 11, 1941, p. 2; Nippon Times, June 4, 1941, p.8.
[15] New York Times, July 7, 1949.
[16] Ueshiba, Morihei and Ueshiba, Kissmaru. Budo: Teachings of the Founder of Aikido. Translated by John Stevens. Tokyo: Kodansha
International, 1996, p. 14.
[17] Pranin, Stanley A. "Morihei Ueshiba and Admiral Isamu Takeshita," Aiki News, 97, Fall/Winter 1993. (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/
article. php?articleID=72)
[18] Svinth, Joseph R. "Aikido Comes to America: September 1935." (http:/ / ejmas. com/ jcs/ jcsart_svinth7_1199. htm); New York Times,
September 21, 1935.
Nobuyoshi Tamura 194

Nobuyoshi Tamura
Nobuyoshi Tamura ( Tamura Nobuyoshi, 2 March
1933, Osaka[1] 9 July 2010)[2] was a prominent aikidoka and a direct
student of Morihei Ueshiba. Son of a kendo teacher, Tamura entered
the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in 1953[3] as an uchi-deshi (live-in student) of
aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba. He was one of Ueshiba's favorite
pupils and since 1964 has greatly contributed to the development of
aikido in Europe and France in particular. He was the National
Technical Director (DTN) of the FFAB (French Federation of Aikido Nobuyoshi Tamura at the International aikido
training in Lesneven, 2006
and Bud). He held the rank of 8th dan and the title of Shihan.
Throughout his teaching career he trained many others instructors in
various countries around the world but foremost Western Europe.[2] In
1999, he received the medal of "Chevalier de l'ordre National du
Mrite" from the French government. Tamura has published several
books on aikido (in French). His dojo (Shumeikan Dojo) is located in
the village of Bras (Var, France). His former students include Toshiro
Suga and Pierre Chassang.

Nobuyoshi Tamura at the International aikido

Personal life training in La Colle-sur-Loup, August 2005

Tamura-shihan married Rumiko, a student in Morihei Ueshiba's dojo.

Tamura Sensei has three sons, one of them, Yoshimichi, having a successful career in the movie industry as an
animator. He was the lead animator for the character Helga in the Disney motion picture Atlantis: The Lost
Empire.[4]

Aikido in France
Sent by Morihei Ueshiba, Tamura-shihan arrived in France in the port of Marseille in 1964 as the final destination of
his honeymoon cruise (he paid part of his trip by performing aikido exhibitions on the ship). In France, he succeeded
Tadashi Abe as the Aikikai representative there and decided to stay in this country teaching aikido, despite the fact
that he could barely speak French at that time. Other aikido teachers in France then included Minoru Mochizuki,
Masamichi Noro and Mutsuro Nakazono.
The French Aikido Federation was split into two in the 1980s purely because of political reasons. Those who decided
to stay loyal to Tamura were for an independent aikido federation created the Fdration Franaise d'Akido et de
Budo from scratch, while those who preferred to remain under the Judo federation (Fdration franaise de Judo et
Disciplines Associes), later became independent as the Fdration franaise d'akido, akibudo et affinitaires under
the technical leadership of Christian Tissier. The two once rival federations are now regrouped under the UFA
(Union des Fdrations d'Akido).[5]
In his early years in Japan, Tamura was acquainted with macrobiotic founder George Osawa.[6] In France, he became
friend with zen master Taisen Deshimaru who arrived in this country in 1965 and whom Osawa considered as his
successor.
Tamura was an honorary citizen of the town of Lesneven, France, where he gave week long yearly summer seminars
with fellow aikido sensei Yoshimitsu Yamada. The other two important aikido trainings he gave every year during
the summer were Saint-Mandrier and La Colle-sur-Loup.
Nobuyoshi Tamura 195

Aikido in Hungary
He first visited Hungary in 1988, and held camps there on a yearly basis until 2009.

Death
Tamura died of cancer on the night of 9 July 2010.

Published works
AIKID, Marseille 1986: AGEP; ISBN 2-9501355-0-1
Aikido - Etikette und Weitergabe, (German Edition: ISBN
3-939703-50-8) Amazon-Germany ASIN: 3939703508
Aikido - Etiquette et transmission. Manuel a l'usage des
professeurs. Aix en Provence 1991: Editions du Soleil Levant,
ISBN 2-84028-000-0

References
[1] FFAB Aikido (http:/ / www. ffab-aikido. fr/ fr/ ffab. asp)
[2] "TAMURA, NOBUYOSHI" (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia.
php?entryID=673). Aikido Journal. .
[3] Philippe Chau, Entretien avec Nobuyoshi Tamura Sensei (http:/ / aikido.
passion. free. fr/ ?2004/ 12/ 15/ 32-entretien-avec-nobuyoshi-tamura-sensei) 15
dcembre 2004
[4] IMDB Yoshimichi Tamura (http:/ / www. imdb. com/ name/ nm0848799/ )
[5] http:/ / www. ai-ki-do. fr/ federation-aikido. php
Tamura in Lesneven in 2004
[6] Profiles of the Founder - an interview with Nobuyoshi Tamura (http:/ / www.
aikidosangenkai. org/ blog/ archive/ 2012-07-08/
profiles-of-the-founder-of-aikido-nobuyoshi-tamura-part-1)
Christian Tissier 196

Christian Tissier
Christian Tissier (born 1951 in Paris, France) is one of the best known European Aikido teachers, who pioneered
the art in France.[1] He started training in Aikido as a child in 1962, and trained under Mutsuro Nakazono in Paris
until he left for Tokyo in 1969. He came to Aikikai Hombu Dojo as an 18 year old, and trained there for seven years.
Among the teachers that have inspired him are Seigo Yamaguchi, Kisaburo Osawa and the second doshu
Kisshomaru Ueshiba. While training at hombu dojo, he taught French language at a school and Institut
franco-japonais de Tokyo.[2]
He received 7th dan in 1998,[3] and is among the handful of westerners who have been given the title Shihan by the
Aikikai.
He is a founding member of the Fdration Franaise d'Akido Akibudo et Affinitaires (FFAAA or 2F3A) which
was created in 1983. He is also a member of the technical college (Collge Technique) in charge of the Dan grades
examination and of the awarding of teaching certifications: Brevet d'Etat and Brevet Fdral. These examinatons
take place jointly with members of the other federation, the Fdration Franaise d'Akido et de Budo (FFAB),
within the Union des Fdrations d'Akido (UFA).[4]

Works
Books:
Aikido Fondamental. Sedirep, Boulogne 1988 (1979) ISBN 2-901551-10-6
Aikido Fondamental - Tome 2: Culture et Traditions. Sedirep, Boulogne; 1995 (1981) ISBN 2-901551-00-9
Aikido Fondamental - Tome 3: Aiki-jo: Techniques de Bton. Sedirep, Boulogne; 1991 (1983) ISBN
2-901551-17-3
Aikido - Initiation. Sedirep, Boulogne; 1995 (1983) ISBN 2-901551-14-9
Aikido Fondamental - Tome 4: Techniques avances. Sedirep, Boulogne; 1995 (1987) ISBN 2-901551-40-8
Aikido - Progression technique du 6me Kyu au 1er Dan. Sedirep, Boulogne; 1996 (1990) ISBN 2-901551-57-2
Videos:
Aikiken- Bokken- Kenjutsu- mes choix pour l'tude du Ken
Aikido - Progression technique du 6me Kyu au 1er Dan.
DVDs:
Principes et applications - Volume 1 : immobilisations
Principes et applications - Volume 2 : projections
Principes et applications - Coffret : immobilisations et projections
Variations et applications
Christian Tissier 197

References
[1] "L'Akido, art de la non-violence" (http:/ / www. lemonde. fr/ cgi-bin/ ACHATS/ 843389. html) (subscription required). Le Monde. 7 March
2004. . Retrieved 26 May 2010.
[2] Portrait de Christian TISSIER (http:/ / www. christiantissier. com/ tissier_portrait. htm)
[3] "Akido : rencontre avec Christian Tissier, 7e dan" (http:/ / www. lavoixdunord. fr/ Locales/ Cambrai/ actualite/ Sport_Cambrai/ 2008/ 12/ 19/
article_aikido-rencontre-avec-christian-tissier. shtml). La Voix du Nord. 19 December 2008. . Retrieved 26 May 2010.
[4] aikido.fr Technical College (http:/ / www. aikido. com. fr/ College-Technique)

External links
Official site (http://www.christiantissier.com/)
Interview with Christian Tissier (in English) (http://www.guillaumeerard.com/aikido/interviews/
18-interview-with-christian-tissier-shihan-7th-dan-aikikai)
Biography of Christian Tissier (in English) (http://www.guillaumeerard.com/aikido/articles/
98-biography-of-christian-tissier-shihan-7th-dan-aikikai)

Fumio Toyoda
Fumio Toyoda, (b. 1947-11-08 d. 2001-07-04) was a Japanese aikido
teacher and lay Zen master who taught extensively in the United States
and Europe.
Raised in Tochigi Prefecture in Japan, Toyoda began training at age 10
with his first teacher Koichi Tohei, whose family land neighbored that
of the Toyoda family. Toyoda was awarded the rank of shodan at age
17, during a test administered by the late Morihiro Saito. At age 17, he
also began training in the misogi methods taught at the Ichikukai Dojo
in Tokyo. Toyoda would go on to live for three years at Ichikukai as a
resident student, or jyoju. It was here that he began studying Zen as Tenzan (Fumio) Toyoda, taken at Chozen-ji
well. temple, Hawaii.

Toyoda later enrolled as uchideshi at Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo,

and lived there for over two years. In 1974, when Koichi Tohei split off from the Aikikai Foundation to eventually
form his Ki no Kenkyukai (Ki Society), Toyoda followed. In that same year - now 27 years old and holding the rank
of godan - he was sent by Tohei to Chicago, USA. Tohei would eventually promote him to the rank of rokudan.
Disagreements between the two, however, led to Toyoda's departure from Tohei's organization. In 1984 Toyoda
founded his own Chicago-based organization, the Aikido Association of America. Now independent and traveling
extensively to lead seminars, a network of European students would also grow to form a sister organization, Aikido
Association International. AAA/AAI would eventually re-affiliate with Aikikai Hombu Dojo in 1994.

In 1997, Toyoda was given inka shomei, the certification of completion of his training in Rinzai Zen, by the late
Tenshin Tanouye
Fumio Toyoda 198

Roshi of Chozen-ji temple in Honolulu, Hawaii; the dharma name

awarded was "Tenzan Gensei". Toyoda was active promoting Zen
training in his network of Aikido dojo. For many years in Chicago he
headed a betsuin (branch temple) of Chozen-ji, as well as International
Zen Dojo Sogenkai, a lay Zen organization he founded to promulgate
the teachings of the late Zen master, swordsman and calligrapher
Omori Sogen.

Calligraphy by Fumio Toyoda: Ikkyoku shch,

Takyoku bunsan ("Concentrate on a single point,
spread out to many points"). This phrase was a
personal motto.

On July 4th, 2001 Toyoda succumbed to a bacterial infection, dying suddenly at the age of 53. His posthumous
Buddhist name is "Tenzan Gensho Rokoji".
AAA and AAI continue to be active today, as affiliates of Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Japan under the guidance of
Yasuo Kobayashi. Several other martial art organizations and schools, founded by Toyoda's senior students after his
death, are also active. The Zen organizations Toyoda helped build eventually coalesced to form Daiyuzenji, a Rinzai
Zen temple still active in Chicago.

Bibliography
Our Founder article on the AAA website [1]
Fumio Tenzan Toyoda by Wayne Muromoto [2]
Interview with Fumio Toyoda by Mark Binder [3]
A Biography of Fumio Toyoda Sensei by Meido Moore [4]
The Zen Master Tenzan Toyoda by Meido Moore [5]

Links to Related Organizations

Aikido Association of America/Aikido Association International [6]
Shinjinkai, The Japanese Martial Arts Society [7]
Aikido World Alliance [8]
The Rinzai Zen Community [9]
Daiyuzenji, Rinzai Zen Temple [10]
Korinji Monastery/The Korinji Foundation [11]
The Toyoda Center, Aikido and Kendo Center [12]
Sosei Aikido Kyokai [13]
Zenshinkai Aikido Association [14]
Fumio Toyoda 199

References
[1] http:/ / www. aaa-aikido. com/ founder. htm
[2] http:/ / www. furyu. com/ archives/ issue10/ toyoda. html
[3] http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ article. php?articleID=128
[4] http:/ / www. shinjinkai. org/ ToyodaBiography. pdf
[5] http:/ / www. shinjinkai. org/ ToyodaZen. pdf
[6] http:/ / www. aaa-aikido. com
[7] http:/ / www. shinjinkai. org
[8] http:/ / www. aikidoworldalliance. com/
[9] http:/ / www. rinzaizen. org/
[10] http:/ / www. daiyuzenji. org/
[11] http:/ / www. korinji. org/
[12] http:/ / www. toyodacenter. com
[13] http:/ / www. aikidokyokai. com
[14] http:/ / www. zenshinkai. org

Mitsuteru Ueshiba
Mitsuteru Ueshiba ( Ueshiba Mitsuteru, born 1980) is the son of the third and current dshu of the
Aikikai, Moriteru Ueshiba. In keeping with the iemoto system of familial generations in traditional Japanese martial
arts, he is expected to succeed his father as dshu, becoming the Fourth Dshu (). He is a great-grandson
of Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of aikido. From April 2010 he has been the acting-dojocho of Ibaraki Prefecture
Aikikai Iwama dojo.[1] Mitsuteru is often referred to as Waka-sensei ( )[2][3][4] to distinguish him from his
father. ("Waka-sensei" means "young teacher," and applied to Moriteru Ueshiba when Kisshomaru Ueshiba was still
alive; this usage also exists outside of aikido, and is a facet of senpai and khai.)

Personal life
On March 2, 2008, Ueshiba married Keiko Kusano,[5][6] and on 22 June 2008 a ceremonial party was held at Keio
Plaza Hotel with major Aikikai sensei.[7]

References
[1] " " (http:/ / www13. big. or. jp/ ~aikikai/ new. html). . 2010-07-02. .
Retrieved 2 September 2010. " 41825 ... ..."
[2] CHANGE OF INSTRUCTORS (http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp/ eng/ info/ 2010/ info_keikochange. htm) Aikikai
[3] Aikido Waka Sensei: Tenchi Nage (http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=N60SPslSCbE)
[4] Wakasensei (Mitsuteru Ueshiba) 47th All Japan Aikido (http:/ / www. youtube. com/ watch?v=8u8uTOr0Ryg& NR=1)
[5] "Marriage of Mitsuteru Ueshiba" (http:/ / www. aikiweb. com/ forums/ showthread. php?t=14351). Aikiweb forum. 2008-04-25. . Retrieved 2
September 2010.
[6] "Scanned letter from Doshu" (http:/ / www. aikido-philippines. com/ index. php?option=com_content& task=view& id=65& Itemid=1).
Aikido Philippines. April 25, 2008. . Retrieved 2 September 2010.
[7] " " (http:/ / plaza. rakuten. co. jp/ aiki51/
diary/ 200807060000/ ). 2008.07.06. . Retrieved 2 September 2010.
Mitsuteru Ueshiba 200

External links
Photo of father and son (http://www.aikidojournal.com/potd.php?page=88)
Mitsuteru Ueshiba 47th All Japan Aikido (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8u8uTOr0Ryg) YouTube
Mitsuteru Ueshiba - Aikijinja Taisai 2010 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9V6DAVMq0A&NR=1)
Photo gallery (http://www5e.biglobe.ne.jp/~kimori/
photo31.html)
Moriteru Ueshiba 201

Moriteru Ueshiba
Moriteru Ueshiba

Born April 2, 1951

Tokyo, Japan

Residence Japan

Nationality Japanese

Style Aikido

Teacher(s) Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Morihei Ueshiba

Moriteru Ueshiba ( Ueshiba Moriteru, born April 2, 1951) is a Japanese master of aikido. He is a
grandson of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of aikido, and son of Kisshomaru Ueshiba. Ueshiba is the third and current
Doshu (hereditary head) of the Aikikai.

Biography
Ueshiba was born on April 2, 1951, in Tokyo, Japan.[1][2] Recalling his childhood during a 2004 interview, he said,
"The first time I wore an Aikido uniform I was in the first grade of elementary school. But my family didnt force me
to do keiko (training) then, I just did it when I felt like it. I started training seriously in my high school years. My
intention then was to become a successor to my father, and to preserve Kaisos [Morihei Ueshiba's] legacy for the
future."[3]
In 1976, Ueshiba graduated from Meiji Gakuin University with a degree in economics.[2] In 1996, he assumed the
position of Dojocho (director/owner) of Aikikai Hombu Dojo.[2] In 1997, he visited Ireland.[4] He assumed the title
of Doshu on January 4, 1999, following the death of his father, Kisshomaru Ueshiba.[2] In January 2006, as part of
Aiki-Kai Australia's 40th anniversary, Ueshiba visited and taught in Australia.[5]
Ueshiba wrote the books Best Aikido: The fundamentals (2002, co-authored with his father Kisshomaru Ueshiba),[6]
The Aikido master course: Best Aikido 2 (2003),[7] and Progressive Aikido: The essential elements (2005).[8]
Following the iemoto system, he is expected to be succeeded as Doshu by his son Mitsuteru Ueshiba.
Moriteru Ueshiba 202

References
[1] Pranin, S. A. (c. 2009): The Encyclopedia of Aikido: Ueshiba, Moriteru (http:/ / www. aikidojournal. com/ encyclopedia?entryID=726)
Retrieved on February 28, 2010.
[2] Aikikai Foundation: Doshu chronology (http:/ / www. aikikai. or. jp/ eng/ doshu. htm) Retrieved on February 28, 2010.
[3] Kitaura, Y. (2004): Interview with Doshu (http:/ / www. aikidoinstitute. org/ kiai/ kiai_x_1. pdf) The Kiai, 10(1):12.
[4] Irish Aikido Federation: Ireland Aikikai (http:/ / www. aikido. ie/ IrAF. htm) Retrieved on March 11, 2010.
[5] Aikido Australia: 40th Anniversary issue (http:/ / www. aikido. org. au/ Resources/ 40thann_2. pdf) (2006). Retrieved on March 14, 2010.
[6] Ueshiba, K., & Ueshiba, M. (2002): Best Aikido: The fundamentals. Tokyo: Kodansha. (ISBN 978-4-7700-2762-7)
[7] Ueshiba, M. (2003): The Aikido master course: Best Aikido 2. Tokyo: Kodansha. (ISBN 978-4-7700-2763-4)
[8] Ueshiba, M. (2005): Progressive Aikido: The essential elements. Kodansha. (ISBN 978-4-7700-2172-4)

External links
46th All Japan Aikido Demonstration Program, featuring Moriteru Ueshiba (http://video.google.com/
videoplay?docid=1689878424071570689#)
Article Sources and Contributors 203

Article Sources and Contributors

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AerobicFox, Aexastra, Aiki Patrick Parker, Aiki-Kaj, Aikido Philippines, Aikidoka66, Aikidolink, Aikikohai, Allstarecho, Altenmann, AmonZ, AnakngAraw, Anaxial, Andr3w Ng, Andre
Engels, Andrewmanby, Angelo De La Paz, Antidemon, Antidrugue, Apostrophe, Ark2120, Artemka, ArthurWeasley, Artiyom, AuburnPilot, BD2412, BWatkins, BadNightmare 5, Badagnani,
Bedges McClaverty, Beeblebrox, Beemer69, Ben-Zin, Bender235, Bento00, Berean Hunter, BhaiSaab, Bidabadi, Black 011, Blueice 77, Bobblewik, Bobo12345, Bobo192, Bomac, Bongwarrior,
Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Brat32, Bryan Derksen, Buffs, CaNNoNFoDDa, Calcwatch, Can't sleep, clown will eat me, Canterbury Tail, Cdang, Certes, Cesiumfrog, Chameleons84,
Chang5673, Charles Nguyen, Charley white, CharlotteWebb, Chensiyuan, Chris Capoccia, Chris Roy, Chris the speller, Chrkl, Cliff smith, Cmdrjameson, Coalhada, Cobbler123, Cometstyles,
CommonsDelinker, Conversion script, CookiesNMilk, Corax, Cronholm144, Ctozer, Curps, Cuvtixo, Cviggian, DaemonNZ, Daniel Quinlan, DanieleProcida, Danspalding, Dark Mage,
Datteravzion, Dave Foley, Dave3141592, David from Downunder, Dbev69, De sidhar, Dekimasu, Delldot, DenisePro, Dennis Valeev, Deor, DerHexer, Dictyosiphonaceae, Diderot, Dilish1987,
Diotti, Dkcolts95, DocWatson42, DoctorW, Donhilskier6, Dr. Blofeld, DrKiernan, Duckorama, EastTN, Ebikeguy, Ed Halter, Ed Poor, Edededed, Edwinstearns, Egg19, Elwikipedista,
Emperorbma, Epbr123, Ephert, Fafnirdreams, Farcaster, Fightindaman, Filmil, Fireboy789, FiveColourMap, Fluppy, Focomoso, Foolip, Formitastisch, Fountains of Bryn Mawr, Frap, Fred26,
Freelance Intellectual, Freestylefrappe, Funymoose, Fusionmix, Fussy2007, Fvdham, Fxer, Gabriel, Garion96, GenkiNeko, Geoave, George Ponderevo, Ghetteaux, Ghimboueils, Gilliam,
Gimboid13, Go for it!, GoktimusPrime, Goleb, Goolbenjin, Gotyaa, Graham87, Grammarmonger, Gregchapman, Gurch, GuruJason7, Gwalla, Gwen-chan, Gwern, Habj, Haiduc, Haleyga, Hall
Monitor, Halloween jack, Halmstad, Hariscupina, Harryboyles, Hawkaris, Hazmat2, Hcheney, Hephaestos, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Hippietrail, Hqb, Hungrywolf41, Hut 8.5,
Indon, InferKNOX, InwardOutward, Isaac Elijah Tabor, Isegrim2009, J-Guy, JForget, JHFTC, JJL, JO, JSH-alive, Jackattack14, Jackbauer114, Jacobst, JanDeFietser, Janto, Jasonwemyss,
JayJasper, Jdcollins13, Jeffree, Jennylen, Jennylithauer, Jes37226, Jessicakoh, Jevs, Jfliu, Jgreenberg, Jimregan, Jisso, Jmcw37, Jni, Jnorris91, JoXn, JoeSmack, Joel7687, John Doe or Jane Doe,
John Smith's, Johnor, Jonathan Drain, Jondel, Jrtayloriv, Juanvillalobos, Judex5414, JustinHall, Jna runn, KHPatton, Kamihiko, Kasper2006, Katatetori, Kdmurray, Kevinhksouth, Kgf0,
Kierun, Koavf, Kontoreg, Kookyunii, Kooo, Kukini, Kurykh, Kydsyd, LAX, LDHan, Lacrimosus, Laddiebuck, Lcs35, Leonard Vertighel, Librarian2, Lifespan100, Lightmouse, Liko81,
LilHelpa, Ling.Nut, Little Flower Eagle, Lod Fishmeat, LordAmeth, M m hawk, MCTales, Macslacker, Madhero88, Magioladitis, Manop, MarB4, MarceloGhelman, Markdole, Martialarm,
Marty Rockatansky, Master of the Orchalcos, Mateo2006, Maverick Hunter, Mboverload, Mdy66, Mets501, Mexcellent, Michaelkvance, Michcar, Midnightbrewer, Mike Dillon, Mike Peel,
Mike Rosoft, Mike Searson, Miloskorac, Mindthegap, MisfitToys, Mogtheforgetfulcat, Morpheis, Morren, Morrislevy, Mrand, Ms2ger, Munkymunky1337, Museclio, Mushroom, Mvemkr, Nat
Krause, Nate1481, Natl1, NawlinWiki, Nbarth, Neep, Neilc, Neilshu, Nekura, Nickj, Notacynic, NuclearWarfare, Nzhamstar, OSFTactical, Obsoletekid, Oda Mari, Onlinedojo ca, Onthegogo,
Ornil, Osaya, Oxymoron83, PRehse, Pablo X, Pamar, Paul E Ester, PauloColacino, PavelCurtis, Pb30, Pdn, Perspicacite, Petersam, Pgan002, Philip ea, Pjimenez, Poindexter Propellerhead,
Possum, PrimeCupEevee, Prof Dr Quang Luong Dang, Protonk, Pulu, Quazgaa, Qurqa, R'n'B, RBM 72, RDF, RJHall, Radon210, RamsesSMR, Rbreen, RealBigFlipsbrain, Reaze, Reddi,
Regulov, Reikon, Renaissancee, Rgephart, Riazat, Rich Farmbrough, Rjwilmsi, Rmky87, Rmspencer, RobertG, Rocastelo, RockMFR, Romanm, Room218, RoyBoy, Rrburke, Rtkyamf, Ryan
Paddy, S02dpgz, Sakes, Sam Hocevar, SanJoseRobert, SandyGeorgia, Sarosh92, Sasuke Sarutobi, Scott Ritchie, Scottalter, Sean.ridgeley, Seibun, Sensationweb, Sensei1952, ShaneCavanaugh,
Shawnc, Simon-in-sagamihara (usurped), SimonW11, Simonb420, Siskopedia, Sitamurlas, Skarebo, Skomorokh, SladjanStosic, Sonicology, Sonjaaa, Spasemunki, Spearhead, Splarn crixpen,
Squids and Chips, Srd2005, Sreyan, Starygrl, Stephen Gilbert, Stfg, Stvfetterly, SudoGhost, Suruena, Susfele, Suttony, SvGeloven, Svp07, Swiftshark, SympatheticResonance, Syrthiss, Sysy,
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Wikivandal12345, WillowW, Womble bee, Wuzur, Wwilson 1, Xenoglossophobe, Xestox, Xoder, Yappakoredesho, Yas, Yomangani, Yooden, Youandme, Your Lord and Master, Yunshui,
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Morihei Ueshiba Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=532452855 Contributors: -js-, 14skywalker, 200.191.188.xxx, 63.192.137.xxx, Aaron Brenneman, Aikibum, Aikido
Philippines, ArglebargleIV, ArthurWeasley, Artiyom, Bdrake96, Bgwhite, Bilrand, Blueice 77, Bmackenty, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Bubamara (usurped), CableWarrior, Cacuija, Chien fu,
Chris Poe, Clawed, Conversion script, D6, DNewhall, Daniel Mietchen, DannaShinsho, Dapsv, Davidiad, Dbenbenn, Dcirovic, Dekimasu, Dennis Bratland, Dkcolts95, DocWatson42,
Doomer4life, Dreadstar, Ds1nt3k, Duckorama, EastTN, Edwinstearns, Elwikipedista, Emperorbma, Evil Monkey, Focomoso, Frochtrup, Fuzlogic, GenkiNeko, Gimbo, Gonholio, Good Olfactory,
Gptlynch, Graham87, GuiTaoist, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Inframan, Inoel131081, Ioda006, JForget, JSLR, JaGa, Jajwyatt, Janggeom, JayJasper, Jes37226, Jisso, Jni, Jondel,
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Woohookitty, Yas, Zazaban, Zeno Gantner, 6 anonymous edits

Oomoto Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=509595541 Contributors: Andycjp, ArkinAardvark, Ashley Y, Astynax, BW52, Babbage, Beornas, CALR, CableWarrior,
Cesiumfrog, Colonies Chris, Cybercobra, DAJF, Davidcannon, Editor2020, Everyking, Fear based teachings, Gaius Cornelius, Garik, Goldfritha, Gwalla, Habj, Haham hanuka, Halthomas,
Heroeswithmetaphors, Hypnosadist, Jbadger, Jennylen, Johnpacklambert, Jonathan Williams, Jondel, Jpatokal, Kadzuwo, Kintetsubuffalo, Koppany, Kricxjo, Leandrod, Lir, LordAmeth,
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anonymous edits

Aikido concepts Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=532359781 Contributors: Aikijen, DAJF, Heroeswithmetaphors, Master Yoddha, Nbarth, PRehse, Rufe, ZippoLag, 1
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Tori Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524586778 Contributors: Bradford44, Breese4289, Brianherman, JHunterJ, Kevin.cohen, Leolaursen, Martarius, Mild Bill Hiccup,
MinorContributor, Nate1481, PRehse, Spoxjox, Techman224, The Other Saluton, WDM27, Waacstats, Xanzzibar, 5 anonymous edits

Uke Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=510076919 Contributors: Aiki Patrick Parker, Bradford44, Calair, Chuunen Baka, Curb Chain, Deadcandy, Delldot, Edwinstearns,
Elwikipedista, Fayedizard, Fearphobic, Friday, Giftiger wunsch, Gwern, Heroeswithmetaphors, IRP, Iridescent, Janggeom, Jdcollins13, Jeremybornstein, Kallol.iitb, Karada, Kevin.cohen, Kewp,
Kingturtle, Kri, Kwamikagami, LittleDan, MinorContributor, Montrealais, Nate1481, Nbarth, Nikai, Nwhit, Overlordofthepies, PRehse, Polaroidist, Rikoshi, Robofish, Rossen4, Sasuke Sarutobi,
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Aiki Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=521400689 Contributors: Ardicius Greenknight, Bradford44, Chris the speller, Ciphers, David from Downunder, Dekimasu, Duckorama,
Epolk, Graham87, Heroeswithmetaphors, J.delanoy, Janggeom, Kayakerodie, Kbarends, Kookyunii, Kusunose, Leolaursen, LilHelpa, Mateo2006, Mild Bill Hiccup, Mrand, Nate1481, Oda Mari,
PRehse, Pschemp, R'n'B, Sakazuki3, Sensei1952, ShhDragon, Vonvin, Womble bee, 22 anonymous edits

Irimi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=511443585 Contributors: Aeusoes1, Bradford44, Ciphers, Habj, Jtpickering, Leolaursen, PRehse, Petersam, Roleplayer, Soegoe,
Ukexpat, Waacstats, 1 anonymous edits

Tenkan Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=506747092 Contributors: Bradford44, Dekimasu, Fram, Heroeswithmetaphors, Jdcollins13, Jmcw37, Jtpickering, Kungfufyr,
Leolaursen, PRehse, Pereza, Robdurbar, Soegoe, Waacstats, 2 anonymous edits
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Atemi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524406582 Contributors: -Marcus-, Bradford44, Bugei1202, DarkFalls, Darklilac, Dbachmann, Edwinstearns, Farine, GenkiNeko,
JHFTC, Janggeom, Jni, Kjkolb, Leolaursen, Miguelmz, Nono64, OS2Warp, Omnipaedista, PRehse, Rama, Rossen4, Shawnc, Waacstats, Womble bee, Yas, Zeno Gantner, 15 anonymous edits

Tai sabaki Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=487817473 Contributors: Ashihara, Catfish Jim and the soapdish, Ciphers, Dekimasu, Haruth, Janggeom, Jpgordon, Kbarends,
Leolaursen, Martarius, Nate1481, Oneworld25, PRehse, Scottalter, Waacstats, Womble bee, Xiawi, , 9 anonymous edits

Maai Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=496053619 Contributors: Aikidude, Bradford44, Brookie, Ciphers, Elagatis, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, JanDeFietser, Jklak,
Kosigrim, Leolaursen, Luxdormiens, Nbarth, PRehse, Rwiedeman, Snigbrook, 9 anonymous edits

Randori Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=496053172 Contributors: Aiki Patrick Parker, Aikido Philippines, Azukimonaka, Barootch, Blonkm, Bradford44, Brion VIBBER,
Bumm13, Catfish Jim and the soapdish, Dbachmann, DoctorW, Emperorbma, Flyingbird, Focomoso, Fram, GenkiNeko, Gwalla, Haruth, Hermgenes Teixeira Pinto Filho, Heroeswithmetaphors,
Jaksmata, Jdcollins13, Maximumlobster, Miciah, Nate1481, PRehse, Shawnc, Silvonen, Thewetdogproject, Tsujigiri, UsagiM, Waacstats, Yas, Zeno Gantner, 24 anonymous edits

Zanshin Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=503319135 Contributors: Aikidoshi, Alansohn, Bendono, Cap j, Ciphers, Fleet Pete, Gzhanstong, Haemogoblin, Haruth,
Ian.thomson, Jeepday, Jklak, MacRusgail, Marcoscata, Mushin, PRehse, REALH2H, Rjwilmsi, RogueNinja, Sam Hocevar, Sborsody, Sputnikcccp, SvGeloven, TomorrowTime, WBardwin,
Waacstats, Whiskers, 39 anonymous edits

Kuzushi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524310812 Contributors: A-cai, Bradford44, Catfish Jim and the soapdish, Colonel Marksman, DCTEN, Dekimasu, Dphrag,
Echsos, Heroeswithmetaphors, Janggeom, Jonathan Drain, Kozushi, Kusunose, Leolaursen, LilHelpa, Lzur, Mangojuice, Mazzid, Mrand, Nekohakase, PRehse, Pjoef, Rjwilmsi, Rossen4, WAS
4.250, Waacstats, Womble bee, Xaosflux, 14 anonymous edits

Qi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=532278085 Contributors: (aeropagitica), 200.191.188.xxx, 241, 24630, 2over0, 4twenty42o, 63.192.137.xxx, AaronLK, Accurizer,
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Yoongkheong, Yst, Yuje, Zachorious, Zak.l, ZenMormon, 423 anonymous edits

Dojo Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524317209 Contributors: -js-, Alanbly, Alexo Andros, Angie Y., Askdfvbladsfgvbldsfigb, Badagnani, Bald Zebra, Barootch, Bfischi,
Bokken, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Brianglass, Brion VIBBER, Ciphers, Copyeditor42, DairyKnight, Damatte keiko, Dekimasu, DivineLady, DocWatson42, Downwiz2, Dr Greg, Dragon24,
Dreadstar, Durova, Elwikipedista, Emperorbma, Euchiasmus, Ewa5050, Expmartialarts, Ffbond, Fuhghettaboutit, Gaius Cornelius, Gilbergg, Glane23, Grahamwild, GregorB, Gseguin, Gwern,
Gwib, Habj, Hemanshu, Heroeswithmetaphors, Hippietrail, Hockeyman41092, IP69.226.103.13, Iamzander777, Irnie, JaGa, Jarble, Jennylen, Jjskarate, Jmcw37, Jni, John Vandenberg, Joriki,
Jspitsen, KAB-J, Kayla.Cooper, Kenchoweb, Kokiri, Kontoreg, Kusunose, Leolaursen, Leonard G., Light current, Lilac Soul, Little Savage, Lowellian, Master of the Orchalcos, Mind meal,
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Reporter shrimpy, Reytan, SchnitzelMannGreek, SchuminWeb, Sewing, Shawnc, Slashme, Squeegie, Surge79uwf, THEN WHO WAS PHONE?, Tcncv, TheCursed, TheJJJunk,
Thedowggydowg, Tide rolls, Tom Morris, TomPhil, Tonyhansen, UnknownPubes, Urashimataro, Walor, Wang Ming, Whiskers, WhisperToMe, Yworo, Zeno Gantner, , ,
, 109 anonymous edits

Kamiza Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=529962899 Contributors: Andycjp, Berek, Cesiumfrog, Confuzion, Heroeswithmetaphors, Instinct, Jncraton, Jrtayloriv, Kusunose,
LouisAlain, Nihonjoe, Ozaru, Rufe, Urashimataro

Tatami Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=517102437 Contributors: -js-, 663highland, Aiman abmajid, Aldenofcarme, Alfio, Alton, Andycjp, Bamse, Beland, Bfinn,
Blanchardb, ColinMcMillen, DAJF, Daderot, DannyWilde, DarwinPeacock, Dave6, Deb, Decltype, Dforest, Dreamingclouds, Dwane E Anderson, Ed Poor, El Raki, Elvenscout742, Error,
Exploding Boy, Fenice, Fg2, Flyingbird, Frecklefoot, Gaijin (renamed), Gaius Cornelius, Gilgamesh, Gracefool, Gyuhi, Hasanisawi, Hippietrail, Hoary, Hokanomono, Humanist Geek, Isnow,
JHP, JQF, Jagged 85, Jonathan Drain, Jpatokal, Just plain Bill, Jyril, Kmikkola, Kokorox, Koman90, LNCP, Lotje, Magnus Manske, Mavwreck, Mewcenary, Mintleaf, Mkill, Mona, Naniwako,
Nayuki, Nbarth, Numbo3, Olivier, Philavert, Pmann79, Prime Entelechy, Qe2eqe, Reg porter, Schneelocke, Seralt, Sgt science, Sjschen, Slawojarek, SoWhy, Stannered, Storkk, Tb, The
Bushranger, Tksb, Urashimataro, Utcursch, Wereon, WhisperToMe, Xanzzibar, Yas, ZZZZZZZZZZOOOOOOOOOO, Zginder, , 81 anonymous edits

Seiza Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=515631066 Contributors: Altenmann, Andres rojas22, Andycjp, Aranel, Bandurr, Bcxfu75k, Behemoth, Bobblehead,
CommonsDelinker, Ds13, Elwikipedista, Evilweevil, Exploding Boy, Fg2, Furrykef, Ghetteaux, Gzornenplatz, Helpspoke, Heroeswithmetaphors, Hundovir, Jmrowland, Jni, Kintetsubuffalo,
Luke.osullivan, Maqs, Mauror, Mitsukai, Nbarth, Orcano, Ospalh, Patrick, Patrick0Moran, Perducci, Peter Isotalo, Pitke, Quasirandom, Quazgaa, Sabbut, Shinkansen Fan, Storkk, Tksb, Traal,
Tyciol, Uruiamme, WhisperToMe, WickedKnightAlbel, Woohookitty, Xiglofre, Yutwong, Zscout370, 34 anonymous edits

Uchi-deshi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=520288895 Contributors: Aotake, AxelBoldt, Blu Aardvark, Bradford44, Caerwine, Da uchideshi, DavidWBrooks, Gurch, Habj,
Heroeswithmetaphors, Judcosta, LOL, Melaen, Moonrat506, Ncc1701zzz, PRehse, Saga City, Sasuke Sarutobi, Seibun, Sorensan, Stvfetterly, Swisspaths, Waacstats, Wikielwikingo, Zeno
Gantner, Zhen Lin, 11 anonymous edits

Ky Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=527164289 Contributors: 9258fahsflkh917fas, AvicAWB, Ben Ben, Bradford44, Caknuck, Charles Matthews, Chuunen Baka, Crais459,
Creol, DocWatson42, Drmies, Ed Poor, Edwinstearns, ElCuervitoAzul, Emurphy42, Estemi, Eugene-elgato, Everyking, Ferroin, FlieGerFaUstMe262, Fractalign, Fulup, GenkiNeko,
GlancingChaos, Glennimoss, Happy B., Hermgenes Teixeira Pinto Filho, Janggeom, Jklak, Jmcw37, Jni, Jogar2, Jonin420, Kendo 66, Klemen Kocjancic, Kwamikagami, Lightdarkness,
LordAmeth, Macho, Martynas Patasius, Mitsukai, Mr. ATOZ, Nate1481, Nbarth, Nigej, Nutiketaiel, Omnipedian, Onemanbucket, Ootek, PRehse, Poisonotter, Quantum Jim, Rannphirt
anaithnid, Rednaxela, Richman271, Saccharomyces, Sasuke Sarutobi, Sensei Sekai, Shashwat986, Shawnc, Shinji nishizono, Smjg, Sonjaaa, Spencer, Tanner Swett, Tenteisai, Trafford09,
Waacstats, Yappakoredesho, Yunshui, ZarlanTheGreen, , 61 anonymous edits

Dan Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=528927808 Contributors: -Marcus-, Agent Smith teh Uber Pr0, Aggie80, Aikidoshi, Alansohn, Altar, Amagase, Battoubro,
BenBildstein, BillC, Bradford44, Brianglass, Buddy23Lee, Butko, Cesiumfrog, Cgtdk, ChrisGualtieri, Coalhada, Commander Keane, CommonsDelinker, Crywalt, DanieleProcida, DannyWilde,
Dbachmann, Deebster, Dffgd, DocWatson42, Duffman, Edward Z. Yang, Ekwos, ElCuervitoAzul, Emurphy42, Endroit, Fayerman, Feour, Ffbond, Florinbaiduc, Foreverprovence,
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Janggeom, Jean.sebastien.bressy, Jengelh, Jklak, Jmcw37, Joaquin008, Josiahpugh, Kakofonous, Kbarends, Kendo 66, Ketiltrout, Komap, Kontoreg, Kwamikagami, Le Anh-Huy, Leolaursen,
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Wavelength, Wellian, Wragge, Xenoglossophobe, Yappakoredesho, Yunshui, 120 anonymous edits

Black belt Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=532519658 Contributors: 100110100, A3RO, Aiki Patrick Parker, Alex.llapitan, Arakunem, Badagnani, Belchman, Billyonetwo3,
Blackbearisbest, Blarrrgy, Blitzer Van Susterwolf, Blugularis, Bradeos Graphon, Bubamara (usurped), Calabe1992, Canadian Ninja, Charlesdrakew, Choster, Colonel Cow, CommonsDelinker,
David from Downunder, Dharokowns, DocWatson42, Dwanyewest, Dystopos, ElfMage, EoGuy, ErinHowarth, Esrever, Evercat, Finngall, Flare13, Forestgarden, FrankNave, Fredrik, Gary King,
Garyms1963, Gcwinnie, Geni, GenkiNeko, Ghetteaux, Goolbenjin, GreenReaper, GregorB, Habj, Hadal, Haida19, Hmoul, Iceberg3k, Inquisitus, J.delanoy, Janggeom, Jh51681, JimHardy, Jni,
JohnInDC, Jonas Viper, KENPOJOE, Kakathegreat, Kim99, Kingpin13, Kungfujoe, Kusunose, LFaraone, LOL, Lenoxus, Magioladitis, Marjoriesmith, Martarius, Mbrutus, Michaelm,
MikeJ9919, Mrand, Mthomp1998, Muad, N2e, NOLA504ever, Nate1481, Neutrality, Nw68868, Obi-Wannabe Kenobi, Omer88f, Onore Baka Sama, Otsoga, Owen, PRehse, Papenfuss, Peripitus,
Prashanthns, RGeisenheimer, Radiant!, Rdancer, Rich Farmbrough, RoodyAlien, Ryker-Smith, Sam 1123, SchuminWeb, Seektabit, Senseineu, Sj, Slashme, Smaug123, Spooky, Surajt88, Svick,
THEN WHO WAS PHONE?, Thingg, Tlesher, Tobias382, Toytoy, Vranak, Well, girl, look at you!, Yellowute, Yunshui, , , 207 anonymous edits

Aikidogi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=510790868 Contributors: Angie Y., Anicholo, AykutBilkay, EastTN, Elmindreda, Gabriel, Guanaco, Gwalla, Habj, Janggeom,
Mitsukai, Museclio, Pulu, Shawnc, Todd Lyons, WestJet, Yomangani, Yunshui, Zeno Gantner, 6 anonymous edits

Hakama Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=523191454 Contributors: Akako, Albert.white, Anupam, Artemis-Arethusa, AykutBilkay, Azukimonaka, Bardsandwarriors,
Bendono, Bogolov, Boneyard90, Bradford44, Bueller 007, Cdang, Ceridwen, Cesiumfrog, Chocolatecat, Ciphers, Claireislovely, Colincbn, CommonsDelinker, DocWatson42, Dogogin,
EarthPerson, Edwinstearns, Emersoni, Emperorbma, Eric hack, Exploding Boy, Fuji 151a, GateKeeper, Genghiskhanviet, George Ponderevo, Gilliam, Habj, Hakamas, JLD, Jamesootas,
JohnOwens, Jonas Mur, Katiemur, Kendo 66, Kintetsubuffalo, Kyoww, Latrippi, LauraOrganaSolo, LonerXL, LordAmeth, Middayexpress, Midori, Mitsukai, Mnd, Myr, Nanshu, Nashikawa,
Nbarth, Nick Number, PRehse, Peterquay, Petersam, Piercetp, Pilum, Pulu, Rama, Raul654, Rich Farmbrough, Rolgiati, Samuraiantiqueworld, Sderose, SirRastus, Slady, Sleepsong, Sreyan,
Sullivan.t.j, Tabletop, TheEditrix, TheEditrix2, Tom-b, Urashimataro, Veski, Wegesrand, WildKard84, Wombatcat, Yooden, Zahakiel, 68 anonymous edits

Obi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=525232880 Contributors: Akako, Amcaja, Andycjp, Arisofalaska, Artemis-Arethusa, Awp4evr, Azukimonaka, Bardsandwarriors,
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Numbo3, Nv8200p, Oda Mari, Onebluebutterfly, PL290, Paj, Pitke, PoccilScript, Randall Brackett, Redlioness, Repku, Rjwilmsi, Robofish, Rotemdanzig, SarahStierch, Sigma0 1, Slightsmile,
Suisaruko, The Omnipotence, TheEditrix2, Theopenprof, Tungsten, Vervin, Whats up skip, 55 anonymous edits

J Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=526238475 Contributors: Aseld, Auntof6, AvicAWB, Badagnani, Bokken, Bongwarrior, Bradford44, Cacycle, Cameron Nedland,
ChrisCork, Davewho2, Dekimasu, Edwinstearns, Eequor, Egg, Emperorbma, Fred26, Frietjes, FunPika, FunkyCanute, Gail, Gcwinnie, GenkiNeko, GreyCat, Guety, Harryboyles, Hephaestos,
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Menchi, Metricmike, Mike Dillon, Monedula, Oda Mari, PRehse, Paulburnett, Pcbene, Pearle, PersOnLine, Physchim62, Pol430, Pretty Green, Rama, Ranveig, Rjwilmsi, Salamurai,
Samuraiantiqueworld, Securiger, Sharolaidbartle, SvGeloven, Tony Jonick, TonyTheTiger, Urashimataro, User5802, Vanduhlipreventionson, Xeno, Yerpo, Zeratul2k, 63 anonymous edits

Aiki-j Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=506398955 Contributors: Alexav8, Bradford44, Egg, Heroeswithmetaphors, Janggeom, PRehse, Rich Farmbrough, WBardwin,
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Aikikai Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=523027231 Contributors: Aikido Philippines, Andrewmanby, Bearcat, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Cesiumfrog, Chester Markel,
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Iwama ryu Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=486040285 Contributors: ArthurWeasley, Azukimonaka, Bearcat, Biofuel, Bradford44, Budoka99, Cesiumfrog, Champagne82,
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Iwama dojo Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=532460111 Contributors: ACSE, Andy14and16, Azukimonaka, Badbilltucker, Cesiumfrog, Chris the speller, ChrisGualtieri,
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TexasAndroid, Torsodog, Tristao, Umebo, Wser, 39 anonymous edits

Morihiro Saito Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=528440382 Contributors: Aikido Philippines, Bcorr, Ben Ben, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Bsar170, Cesiumfrog,
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Ki-Aikido Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=527461037 Contributors: Allens, Azukimonaka, Bradford44, Can't sleep, clown will eat me, Chris the speller, Chrisdel,
ChristianEdwardGruber, Dangray, Danzas, Dronnoc, Duckorama, Ebyabe, Edededed, Eichikiyama, Emersoni, Everyking, Formitastisch, Fred26, Habj, Hmains, JHFTC, Janggeom, Jni, Mattisse,
Oewall, PRehse, Reaze, Rheinallt.morgan, Salix alba, Seibun, Soi558, Spamcleaner, Tegatana, Themfromspace, Waterchan, Wwilson 1, Zeno Gantner, 37 anonymous edits

Ki Society Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=440613250 Contributors: ArthurWeasley, Azukimonaka, Barootch, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Budoka99, Dangray,
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Oewall, Olivier, Ospalh, PRehse, Predator29, Reaze, Sasuke Sarutobi, Sdshaver, Wintran, Womble bee, Woohookitty, Wwilson 1, Zeno Gantner, 25 anonymous edits

Koichi Tohei Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=530478869 Contributors: Abe2008, Ahoerstemeier, AikiHawkeye, Aikido Philippines, ArthurWeasley, Budoka99, Chowbok,
Cmdrjameson, CyWyss, D6, Dangray, David Gerard, Davin, Delirium, Duckorama, EastTN, Edededed, Edwinstearns, Elmindreda, Emersoni, Fdssdf, Filibustered, Fred26, Gaius Cornelius,
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Grafen, Habj, Hede2000, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Hwoarang5, Irimi, Island Monkey, Jeffriwelsh, Jni, Kahen12, Kleinav, Klemen Kocjancic, Kovrov, Lenihanlover, Leolaursen,
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Shodokan Aikido Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=527544112 Contributors: ArthurWeasley, BoBrandt, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Budoka99, Chris the speller,
ChristianEdwardGruber, Chuunen Baka, Digipoet, DoctorW, EastTN, Ebyabe, Ewolput, Freelance Intellectual, Gedanate, Guiwiz, Gwalla, Habj, Hendric Stattmann, Heroeswithmetaphors,
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Gantner, 44 anonymous edits

Kenji Tomiki Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=523337784 Contributors: After Midnight, Baumfreund-FFM, Bilrand, Fred26, Gwalla, Habj, Janggeom, Jimius,
Kintetsubuffalo, Mike Selinker, PRehse, Phatcat68, Rich Farmbrough, Shukalo83, Sjones23, Waacstats, Yms, 20 anonymous edits

Kobayashi aikido Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=507686504 Contributors: Aga24, Chuunen Baka, EastTN, Fafnirdreams, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, PRehse,
Seanturner, 7 anonymous edits

Hirokazu Kobayashi Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=531472575 Contributors: Aga24, Aikilawyer, Awartha, Bilrand, Chuunen Baka, Download, Eichikiyama,
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Rjwilmsi, Seanturner, Takabeg, 14 anonymous edits

Yoseikan Aikido Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=526129641 Contributors: Arjayay, Bendono, Beru7, BigrTex, Bradford44, Brenont, ChristianEdwardGruber,
Codename:Iceman, DazRHyde2007, EastTN, Ebyabe, EoGuy, Grahamwild, Habj, Harryboyles, John of Reading, LilHelpa, Mephistophelian, Mrand, Noveltyghost, PRehse, Phucquoc101,
Rjwilmsi, Tabletop, Woohookitty, Wragge, Yunshui, 159 anonymous edits

Minoru Mochizuki Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=511446939 Contributors: AikiHawkeye, Clausewitz01, Common Good, Fredrik, Grahamwild, Habj,
Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Iriseyes, Leolaursen, Magioladitis, Materialscientist, Noveltyghost, PRehse, Petersam, Pigman, Sofeshue, Tiyoringo, WhItE Boiizzzz, Woohookitty, Zeno
Gantner, 19 anonymous edits

Yoshinkan Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=517409859 Contributors: Aikidoshi, Aikikohai, ArthurWeasley, Budoka99, ChristianEdwardGruber, Chrumps, Daggyd13,
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Gozo Shioda Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=522014587 Contributors: AikiHawkeye, Aikidoshi, ArthurWeasley, Bradford44, Budoka99, ChristianEdwardGruber, D6,
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Kenshiro Abbe Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=496266484 Contributors: Auntof6, Bender21435, Bendono, Bill william compton, Bradford44, Catfish Jim and the soapdish,
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Seiseki Abe Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=517446114 Contributors: ArthurWeasley, Crystallina, Delirium, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Himayat-Anjuman-i,
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Tadashi Abe Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=511529597 Contributors: Aikido Philippines, Alai, Fram, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Hmains, Janggeom,
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Kazuo Chiba Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=525696127 Contributors: Alai, Andycjp, ArthurWeasley, Caerwine, Carabinieri, Corrible, D6, Davinderbath, EllF, Fred26,
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Terry Dobson Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=517097961 Contributors: Blonkm, E-Kartoffel, Focomoso, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Moleskiner, Oculi,
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Toshikazu Ichimura Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=516384314 Contributors: D6, Egeltal, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, JHunterJ, Jklak, PRehse, Rjwilmsi,
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Hitohiro Saito Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=527844713 Contributors: Alai, Bender235, Betacommand, Bilrand, Bradford44, Budouka, Cesiumfrog, ContactAIcom, D6,
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Rrburke, Rror, Rsm99833, Rudyh01, RyJones, Ryan Axelson, RyanGerbil10, Ryulong, S2000magician, SFilip, SIbuff, SQGibbon, Sagaciousuk, Saltygoodness, Salvio giuliano, Sam, Sam
Hocevar, Sam Spade, Sangrito, Sannse, Sarah, Savolya, Scott10990, Seagal24, Sean D Martin, Senseitaco, Sephiroth BCR, Ser Amantio di Nicolao, Serijvip, Sfajrat, Sgeureka, ShadowKiller198,
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Wspock50, WlffReik, Xezbeth, Xp54321, XxXDylanWillard, Xxxpaatxxx, Y, Y2kcrazyjoker4, YDZ, Yamamoto Ichiro, YellowMonkey, Yeng-Wang-Yeh, Yoko santoso, Yworo, Yytsy, Z10x,
Zafiroblue05, Zeno Gantner, Zieman23, Ziul Leirbag, Zoicon5, Zomno, Zteller, Zweiunt, Zzuuzz, dipus sic, 2613 anonymous edits

Kenji Shimizu Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524308989 Contributors: Alai, BokicaK, Budoka99, Craigy144, Edwinstearns, Elwikipedista, Fg2, Gwalla, Habj,
Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Hupaleju, InterwikiLinksRule, Janggeom, Jni, Joe Decker, Mike Selinker, Mrand, Nat Krause, PRehse, Papaursa, Phatcat68, RickK, Ruslik0, SimonP,
Ukemi, Woohookitty, Yas, Yooden, Zeno Gantner, 17 anonymous edits

Yasuhisa Shioda Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=516753939 Contributors: Aboutmovies, Afasmit, Aikidoshi, ChrisGualtieri, GoodDay, Heroeswithmetaphors, Janggeom,
Papaursa, Rich Farmbrough, Stmiranda, Waacstats, YOUSEFY, 2 anonymous edits

Seiichi Sugano Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=511030715 Contributors: Alai, Booyabazooka, Cesiumfrog, Cuchullain, D6, DannyWilde, Edwinstearns, Epbr123,
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Vanished user svinet8j3ogifm98wjfgoi3tjosfg, Waacstats, 29 anonymous edits

Stefan Stenudd Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=530054741 Contributors: D6, GregorB, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Hmains, JHunterJ, MZMcBride, Ser Amantio di
Nicolao, Severo, Waacstats, 3 anonymous edits

Isamu Takeshita Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=522842299 Contributors: ArthurWeasley, Auntof6, Bradford44, CommonsDelinker, Frochtrup, Gdr, Janggeom, Joseph
Svinth, Kaiketsu, Kintetsubuffalo, Koavf, Kusunose, MChew, Nihonjoe, PRehse, Raul654, Takabeg, Tenmei, WOSlinker, Waacstats, Zeno Gantner, 2 anonymous edits

Nobuyoshi Tamura Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=530763137 Contributors: Allmightyduck, Anklesocks, ArthurWeasley, BorgQueen, Calvin08, Cdang, Cnaeus, Corrible,
CrackerJack7891, D6, DaB., Diaomonmon, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, In2thats12, JamesAM, Kintetsubuffalo, LOL, Martarius, Masterknighted, Mattgirling, Mike Selinker, Msmall,
Musounoken, PRehse, Pamar, Pierregil83, Rjwilmsi, Roberto hung, Universimmedia, Waacstats, 61 anonymous edits

Christian Tissier Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=521877032 Contributors: Bradeos Graphon, D6, Dennis Bratland, Edwinstearns, Fred26, Gagel, Genegun, GenkiNeko,
Guanaco, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Janggeom, Jmcw37, Jni, Kewp, Mike Selinker, PRehse, Pamar, Papaursa, Phatcat68, Phil Bridger, Ppntori, Sam Hocevar, Tieno, Tsthanos, Waacstats, 15
anonymous edits

Fumio Toyoda Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524423323 Contributors: ArthurWeasley, Bartekchwalisz, D0g3n, Epolk, Formitastisch, Good Olfactory,
Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, J Di, Janggeom, Jmcw37, Kushin059, Kusunose, Meido Moore, Mind meal, PRehse, Robth, Speciate, Stoyoda, ToyodaCenter, Waacstats, 45 anonymous
edits

Mitsuteru Ueshiba Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=501871187 Contributors: Epbr123, Heroeswithmetaphors, Janggeom, Jason Quinn, Jcmeredith, Rjwilmsi, Waacstats,
Xic667, 3 anonymous edits

Moriteru Ueshiba Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?oldid=524082953 Contributors: Aikido Philippines, Alai, Bender235, Bradeos Graphon, Bradford44, Brockert, D6, Dvulture,
Edwinstearns, Elwikipedista, Ericrch, Habj, Heroeswithmetaphors, Himatsu Bushi, Janggeom, Jni, Joergens.mi, Juanvillalobos, KANM, Kjlewis, Martial arts, Mike Selinker, Nat Krause,
Nihonjoe, PRehse, Phatcat68, Quazgaa, Reconsider the static, SvGeloven, Svengoody, Taw, Tim1357, Wizardman, Yas, Zeno Gantner, , 14 anonymous edits
Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors 208

Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors

Image:Shihonage.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Shihonage.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 3.0 Contributors: Magyar Balzs
File: .svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File: .svg License: Public Domain Contributors: Hazmat2
File:Morihei-Ueshiba.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Morihei-Ueshiba.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Morihei Ueshiba
File:Takeda Sokaku.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Takeda_Sokaku.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Original uploader was Mateo2006 at en.wikipedia
File:Onisaburo Deguchi 2.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Onisaburo_Deguchi_2.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors:
File:Akido-shihoo nage.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Akido-shihoo_nage.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported Contributors:
My father
File:aikido ikkyo.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Aikido_ikkyo.png License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: User:SreeBot
File:Aikido ikkyo omote ura.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Aikido_ikkyo_omote_ura.png License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: User:SreeBot
File:PRehse002-cropped.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:PRehse002-cropped.jpg License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: GenkiNeko
File:Embukai01.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Embukai01.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Juanvillalobos, 3 anonymous edits
File:ki obsolete.svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Ki_obsolete.svg License: Public Domain Contributors: chris
File:Folding hakama.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Folding_hakama.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 Contributors:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dokiai/ dokiai
File:Ceinture blanche.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Ceinture_blanche.png License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.5 Contributors:
User:Liquid_2003
File:Ceinture noire.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Ceinture_noire.png License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.5 Contributors: User:Liquid_2003
file:Morihei-Ueshiba.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Morihei-Ueshiba.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Morihei Ueshiba
File:Flag of Japan.svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Flag_of_Japan.svg License: Public Domain Contributors: Anomie
Image:Takeda Sokaku.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Takeda_Sokaku.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Original uploader was Mateo2006 at en.wikipedia
Image:Onisaburo Deguchi 2.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Onisaburo_Deguchi_2.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors:
file:Takeda Sokaku.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Takeda_Sokaku.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Original uploader was Mateo2006 at en.wikipedia
File:Takeda family.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Takeda_family.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Ichiro Kage
Image:Takeda_mon.svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Takeda_mon.svg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported Contributors: -Strogoff-,
Ash Crow, Los688, Maxima m, WTCA
Image:SeiwaGenjiTree.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:SeiwaGenjiTree.png License: Public Domain Contributors: Papinot, Edmond
Image:Osaka Asahi Shimbun Bldgs 20120429-001.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Osaka_Asahi_Shimbun_Bldgs_20120429-001.jpg License: Creative Commons
Attribution-Sharealike 3.0,2.5,2.0,1.0 Contributors: J o
Image:University of Tsukuba 1.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:University_of_Tsukuba_1.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported
Contributors: D.328 2007/06/28 16:52 (UTC)
Image:Morihei-Ueshiba.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Morihei-Ueshiba.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Morihei Ueshiba
file:G Blaize Kokiu Nague 2.JPG Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:G_Blaize_Kokiu_Nague_2.JPG License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors:
AndreasPraefcke, Joan, Mu, Nojhan, Thuresson, Yappakoredesho
file:aiki.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Aiki.png License: Public Domain Contributors: Womble bee
Image:G Blaize Kokiu Nague 2.JPG Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:G_Blaize_Kokiu_Nague_2.JPG License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors:
AndreasPraefcke, Joan, Mu, Nojhan, Thuresson, Yappakoredesho
File:Irimi tenkan.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Irimi_tenkan.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 Contributors: Tobias Steinhoff
Image:Taisabaki.svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Taisabaki.svg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported Contributors: chris
file:EigaKamae-wiki.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:EigaKamae-wiki.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Original uploader was Kosigrim at en.wikipedia.
Later version(s) were uploaded by SchuminWeb at en.wikipedia.
file:Embukai01.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Embukai01.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Juanvillalobos, 3 anonymous edits
file:Qi 3 forms.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Qi_3_forms.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: AnonMoos, Aotake, AtonX, Flappiefh, Patrick Edwin Moran
File:Ki-hanja.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Ki-hanja.png License: Public Domain Contributors: Original uploader was Kbarends at nl.wikipedia
file:Noma Dojo, 2006.JPG Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Noma_Dojo,_2006.JPG License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: Wang Ming
Image:JJS Dojo.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:JJS_Dojo.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 3.0 Contributors: Jjskarate
File:Takagike Kashihara JPN 001.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Takagike_Kashihara_JPN_001.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0
Unported Contributors: Ignis, Reggaeman, Toto-tarou
Image:Youkoukan06n4592.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Youkoukan06n4592.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported Contributors:
663highland
Image:Men Making Tatami Mats, 1860 - ca. 1900.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Men_Making_Tatami_Mats,_1860_-_ca._1900.jpg License: Public Domain
Contributors: Original uploader was Daderot at en.wikipedia
Image:Tatami layout 1.svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Tatami_layout_1.svg License: Public domain Contributors: en:User:Exploding Boy, User:Stannered
Image:Tearoom layout.svg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Tearoom_layout.svg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike Contributors: Bamse
File:Seiza woman tea.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Seiza_woman_tea.jpg License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: Original uploader was Ds13
at en.wikipedia
Image:JimmyWales wearing Kimono.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:JimmyWales_wearing_Kimono.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0
Unported Contributors: Azuncha
File:Judo03.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Judo03.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Cpl. Jeff Sisto
File:Sakakibara Yasumasa.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Sakakibara_Yasumasa.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors:
File:Iaidovyuka2.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Iaidovyuka2.jpg License: Copyrighted free use Contributors: Original uploader was Birch321 at cs.wikipedia
(Patrik Orth - www.tenshin.cz)
file:Obi-goky.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Obi-goky.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported Contributors: chris
File:Diploma of 8th Kyu in Kyokushin Karate.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Diploma_of_8th_Kyu_in_Kyokushin_Karate.jpg License: Public Domain
Contributors: User:Yappakoredesho
File:The Certificate of Pre 2nd Kyu in Japanese Kanji Examination.jpg Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:The_Certificate_of_Pre_2nd_Kyu_in_Japanese_Kanji_Examination.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: User:Yappakoredesho
file:1gB.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:1gB.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Original uploader was Xste35 at cs.wikipedia
Image:Go-Equipment-Narrow-Black.png Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Go-Equipment-Narrow-Black.png License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors:
Stefan4, TcfkaPanairjdde, Torsch
File:Diploma of 7th Dan in Japanese Kendo.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Diploma_of_7th_Dan_in_Japanese_Kendo.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors:
User:Yappakoredesho
Image Sources, Licenses and Contributors 209

Image:Rhee TKD Black Belts.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Rhee_TKD_Black_Belts.jpg License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: Original
uploader was User:Janggeom at en.wikipedia.org 15:04, 16 October 2007 (UTC)
File:kata.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Kata.jpg License: Public Domain Contributors: Lance Cpl. Patrick J. Floto
File:Rhee_TKD_Black_Belts.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Rhee_TKD_Black_Belts.jpg License: GNU Free Documentation License Contributors: Original
uploader was User:Janggeom at en.wikipedia.org 15:04, 16 October 2007 (UTC)
File:Hihakama.JPG Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Hihakama.JPG License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported Contributors: Aotake, Carpkazu,
Mikomaid, Suguri F,
Image:Kimono-hakama-p1000698.jpg Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Kimono-hakama-p1000698.jpg License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0
Contributors: Rama
Image:Mikohakamaback.JPG Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Mikohakamaback.JPG License: Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 3.0 Contributors: carpkazu
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