Founder of Aikido YoshinkanThe Life and Legacy of Gozo Shioda
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- Aikido Yoshinkan
- Master Gozo Shioda
The Philosophy of Gozo Shioda
対すれば相和す
taisureba aiwasu
What is the ultimate technique in Aikido?
It is the ability to dissolve hostility in your opponent and form a bond of friendship instead.
The Philosophy of Gozo Shioda
対すれば、相和す
Taisureba AiwasuWhat is the ultimate technique in Aikido?
It is the ability to dissolve hostility in your opponent and form a bond of friendship instead.
Master Gozo Shioda (1915–1994) was a martial artist of unparalleled skill, revered as a once-in-a-lifetime master despite his small stature of 154 cm and 45 kg. In 1954, he received the highest honor at the All Japan Martial Arts Demonstration, and the following year, he founded Yoshinkan Aikido. His extraordinary technique and indomitable spirit left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations. He also served as the model for Shibukawa Gōki in Baki the Grappler, further solidifying his place in martial arts history.
Early Years(Birth – 1920s)
Foundations of a Martial Journey
Born on September 9, 1915, in Tokyo, Gozo Shioda was a frail child. However, his natural talent for martial arts became evident when he began dedicating himself to kendo and judo. By his fifth year at Tokyo Municipal Sixth Junior High School, he had already earned a third-degree black belt in Kodokan Judo. His exceptional abilities caught the attention of the school principal, who encouraged him to visit the dojo of Master Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. On May 23, 1932, at the age of 17, Shioda stepped into Master Ueshiba’s dojo—an encounter that would shape the course of his life.
The Path of Mastery(1930s – 1950s)
Discovering and Mastering Aikido
Shioda’s first impression of Master Ueshiba’s techniques was one of skepticism—he suspected trickery. However, the moment he was effortlessly thrown across the room, his doubts vanished. Awed by Master Ueshiba’s profound technique, he entered the dojo without hesitation, dedicating himself to absorbing the essence of Aikido. His training extended beyond the dojo; he meticulously observed the movements of goldfish to refine his footwork and body dynamics. From 1941 onward, Shioda traveled through Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Borneo, gaining invaluable real-world experience that further deepened his understanding of martial principles. Upon returning to Japan, he was awarded the ninth dan by Master Ueshiba himself, marking his readiness to forge his own way as a leader in Aikido.
Establishment of Yoshinkan(1955–1960s)
Bringing the Spirit of Harmony to the World
In 1954, Master Shioda demonstrated his exceptional skill, winning the highest honor at the All Japan Martial Arts Demonstration and earning widespread recognition in the martial arts world. The following year, with strong support from business leaders, he established the Aikido Yoshinkai and its headquarters dojo. In 1962, Robert and Ethel Kennedy visited the dojo, where Master Shioda stunned audiences with his ability to subdue a towering bodyguard effortlessly. The demonstration, televised nationwide, left an indelible mark on viewers and cemented Yoshinkan Aikido’s reputation on the global stage.
The Philosophy of Gozo Shioda
歩く姿が武である
Aruku Sugata ga Bu de Aru
Budo must not be something detached from daily life. Even in the simple act of walking, one’s state of mind, posture, and awareness of timing all reflect the essence of technique. Striving to embody these principles at all times is itself a form of training.
Demonstration for Robert and Ethel Kennedy at Yoshinkan Headquarters Dojo
A Lasting Legacy(1980s–1994)
Aikido Yoshinkan: Illuminating the Future
Master Shioda continued to achieve remarkable milestones throughout his career. In 1983, he was awarded the prestigious title of Hanshi by the International Martial Arts Federation, and in 1985, he was granted the tenth dan in Aikido. In 1990, boxing world champion Mike Tyson visited the dojo and was deeply impressed by Master Shioda’s impeccable timing and precise footwork. Master Shioda passed away on July 17, 1994, at the age of 78. Yet his extraordinary techniques and profound philosophy continue to endure, offering timeless value that transcends generations. The spirit and legacy of Master Gozo Shioda live on, continuing to inspire practitioners worldwide to this day.
The Philosophy of Gozo Shioda
合気道は和合の実践
Aikido ha Wagou no Jissenn
Through the practice of Aikido, we aim to expand the spirit of harmony. I dream of a world where people from all nations and backgrounds learn Aikido and understand its principles—where through this practice, the world’s conflicts might be resolved.
23rd All-Japan Aikido Demonstration (1978)
Yoshinkan Aikido World Championships (1990, Canada)
From the Film Aikido (1962) – Basic Techniques and More
From the Film Aikido (1962) – Multiple Attack Demonstration
Heritage Archive
Records Preserving the Legacy of Master Gozo Shioda
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Visit by His Majesty the Emperor (then Crown Prince) – May 14, 1987
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Visit by Prince and Princess Hitachi – September 18, 1965
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Commemorative Photo from the Ueshiba Dojo Period (Front row, center: Master Morihei Ueshiba; to his right: Master Gozo Shioda) – Early Shōwa Era
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Gozo Shioda Instantly Subdues a Bodyguard During the Kennedys' Visit to the Dojo – February 10, 1962
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U.S. & Canada Demonstration Tour – October 6–19, 1980
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Visit by Princess Alexandra of the United Kingdom and Her Husband – September 29, 1965