What is AIKIDO?

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art founded by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), who is often referred to as O-Sensei, meaning “Great Teacher.” Unlike many martial arts that focus primarily on strikes or competition, Aikido was created as a discipline that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit while emphasizing peace and non-violence. O-Sensei’s vision was to develop a martial art that transforms conflict into harmony, allowing practitioners not only to defend themselves but also to protect their opponent from injury.
After the passing of the Founder, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba became the second Doshu (hereditary head of Aikido). Today, the leadership continues with Moriteru Ueshiba, the Founder’s grandson and the current Doshu, ensuring that the philosophy and practice of Aikido remain true to its origins while continuing to evolve with the modern world. The central institution of Aikido is the Aikikai Foundation, which was established to preserve and promote the Founder’s legacy. Its mission includes supporting the inheritance of Aikido, fostering the training of both body and mind, and encouraging the global spread of the art. Aikido is now practiced in more than 140 countries, uniting people of diverse cultures under the shared values of respect, discipline, and harmony. At the heart of the Aikikai Foundation is the Aikido Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, Japan, which was built in 1931. This dojo serves as the global headquarters of Aikido, where Doshu, along with numerous Shihan (master instructors) and Shidoin (certified teachers), dedicate themselves to the growth and refinement of Aikido practice. As the central hub, Hombu Dojo continues to inspire countless practitioners worldwide to embrace Aikido not only as a martial art but also as a lifelong path of self-cultivation, peace, and harmony.