Membership Guide
- TOP
- Membership Guide
General Class
A Path Open to All – Experience the Depth of Traditional Aikido
At Aikido Yoshinkan, training emphasizes both highly effective techniques and profound spiritual cultivation under the guiding principle of Tai Sureba Ai Wasu (Harmony through Encounter). This union of exceptional effectiveness and harmonious spirit led Yoshinkan techniques to be adopted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.
Whether you seek physical conditioning, mental fortitude, or practical self-defense, you can develop your skills at your own pace, cultivating your practice in accordance with your personal aspirations.
The Headquarters Dojo stands as one of Japan’s most distinguished centers for Aikido, with a legacy of excellence spanning decades. Welcoming practitioners of all levels, regardless of age, gender, or background, it offers a path to discovering both the depth and the essence of Aikido. Step onto the tatami, and begin your journey.
Course Overview
The General Class consists of two courses.
Basic Course
EnrollmentTraining Content
Designed for beginners, this course provides a structured introduction to Aikido, systematically guiding students through fundamental stances, basic movements, and essential techniques in a progressive manner.
Eligibility
Middle school students and adults (unranked to 5th Kyu)
General Course
EnrollmentTraining Content
Tailored for intermediate and advanced practitioners, this course builds upon foundational skills, refining proficiency and technical depth through applied techniques, weapons training, and advanced skill development.
Eligibility
Middle school students and adults (4th Kyu and above)
Monthly Tuition
| Membership type | Daily membership | Twice a week membership |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 13,200 yen | 12,100 yen |
| Student | 12,100 yen | 11,000 yen |
- Daily Membership: Unlimited access to classes on training days.
- Twice-a-Week Membership: Attend classes on two fixed days per week. (Days can be adjusted each month.)
- Family Discount: Families receive a 10% discount on the total monthly fee for two family members and a 15% discount for three or more family members. For more details, please contact us via the inquiry form or by phone.
Visiting Training for Yoshinkan Branch MembersMembers registered with a Yoshinkan-affiliated branch organization are welcome to participate in the "Basic Course" and "General Course" at the Headquarters dojo for 2,200 yen per session.
On the day of training, please present your membership card at the reception desk.
Voices from Our Students
A Lifelong Dream Fulfilled—Starting Aikido at 60
Female, 60s, Entrepreneur
I have always been interested in martial arts, but for many years, I never had the opportunity to begin. As I grew older, I wondered if Aikido might be something I could do, and a friend recommended Yoshinkan, saying, "At Yoshinkan, the structured practice of basic movements provides a solid foundation, allowing even beginners to progress with confidence." That encouragement led me to take my first step.
The instructors have been incredibly patient, teaching with great care, and my senior classmates have also offered words of encouragement, reassuring me that "Athletic ability doesn't matter—if you keep going, you will surely gain something." Those words kept me going. At first, I never imagined earning a black belt, thinking, "It would be wonderful if I could achieve it in my lifetime." But after four years of steady practice, I finally reached that milestone.
A Philosophy for Life
Male, 40s, Teacher
I was drawn to Aikido by its philosophy of "Tai Sureba Ai Wasu"—harmony through encounter. This concept has become a guiding principle not only in my training but also in my work and personal life. I often find myself wondering, "Is there a way to communicate without confrontation, just as in Aikido techniques?"
Thanks to my training, I have learned to relax in critical moments, and I feel that my thoughts and intentions now reach others more effectively. Japanese culture is filled with wisdom, traditions, and knowledge worth exploring. Training in Aikido has not only enriched my life but even relieved my chronic shoulder stiffness. If you are even slightly interested, I encourage you to give it a try—you may discover something truly valuable.
Welcomed Like Family
Female, 20s, Student
Aikido was appealing because it required no special equipment and didn’t rely on physical strength—it seemed like the most approachable martial art. When I first came for a trial class, I was amazed by how warmly I was welcomed. I even wondered, "Wait, is this a dojo or a relative’s home?"
The instructors and senior students don’t just say, "Watch and learn." They take the time to explain things thoroughly. Since starting Aikido, my posture has improved so much that my sister recently asked, "Did you get taller?" Saturday morning training sets the tone for a productive and refreshing weekend—I get my exercise in, and I don’t end up lazing around for the rest of the day.
Don’t feel intimidated by the word "dojo." It’s a friendly and welcoming space—come and give it a try!
Practical Self-Defense with a Higher Purpose
Male, 40s, Entrepreneur
After being harassed by a drunk person on a train, I decided to learn self-defense. I was looking for a martial art that would allow me to protect myself without harming others, which led me to Yoshinkan Aikido. I wanted to start with a solid foundation, so I chose the headquarters dojo.
As I continued training, I noticed a significant change—not only physically but also mentally. I stopped clashing with people, both in movement and in mindset. The dojo offers extensive training hours, numerous experienced instructors, and even opportunities to practice with members of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police.
It’s an ideal environment to explore Aikido in your own way. If you're even slightly interested, why not come for a visit?
FAQs
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact us via the inquiry form, telephone or fax.
Aikido Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo
2F Toyo Building, 4-17-15 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075
Phone: 03-3368-5556
FAX：03-3368-5578
Children & Family Class
Cultivating Respect and Confidence
– The Way of Japanese Traditional Martial Arts –
In the Children’s Class, young practitioners immerse themselves in the spirit of traditional Japanese Budo through Aikido. Aikido follows "kata" keiko, a structured and systematic form of training where children refine their movements in harmony with their partners while cultivating social skills. Training is also designed to be engaging and enjoyable while naturally instilling manners, proper posture, and respectful communication.
Aikido is not about competition; there are no winners or losers. Instead, it fosters cooperation and mutual growth, guided by the philosophy of "Tai Sureba Ai Wasu" (Harmony Through Encounter), passed down by Master Gozo Shioda.
Through rank examinations, children develop resilience, a sense of achievement, and the confidence that their dedication leads to growth.
Aikido provides a nurturing environment where children not only build physical strength but also cultivate character—learning discipline, perseverance, and the spirit of harmony in their journey of self-discovery. We invite you to experience this path of growth together.
EnrollmentCourse Overview
The Children & Family Class consists of two courses.
Children's Class
EnrollmentTraining Content
Children learn etiquette, fundamental movements, basic techniques, and breakfall techniques, which form the foundation of both Aikido and self-defense.
Eligibility
Elementary school students
Training Schedule
Available every day training is held.
Family Class
EnrollmentTraining Content
In the Family Class, parents can join their children in Children's Class training sessions, creating a shared experience of learning and growth.
Eligibility
Elementary school students and their parents
Training Schedule
Up to 2 sessions per week
※ choose your days upon enrollment
※ days can be changed monthly
Monthly Tuition
| Children's Class | Family Class |
|---|---|
| Child 6,600 yen |
Parent + 1 Child
14,300 yen Parent + 2 Children
15,400 yen Parent + 3 Children
16,500 yen |
- Family Discount: Families receive a 10% discount on the total monthly fee for two family members and a 15% discount for three or more family members. For more details, please contact us via the inquiry form or by phone.
Voices from Our Students
Stronger Legs and a Stronger Spirit
Parent of Children's Class Student; Student: Female, 6th Grade
My child became interested in Aikido after watching a practice session through the dojo’s glass window, and that’s how we started at the Yoshinkan Headquarters Dojo. Since beginning Aikido, my child’s legs have grown much stronger—now they can climb steep hills without stopping!
They’ve also said, "It’s fun to have so many different instructors." Aikido not only builds physical strength but also teaches manners and focus, making it a meaningful way to spend time after school. I’m especially hopeful that it will serve as a valuable self-defense skill for my daughter.
Learning Respect and Gaining Confidence
Parent of Children's Class Student; Male, 50s, Office Worker; Student: Female, 6th Grade
I wanted my children to develop both physically and mentally, while learning the importance of respect, so I encouraged them to start Aikido. My son and daughter began attending together—my son enjoyed it from the start, and my daughter has gradually grown attached to Aikido as well.
At this year’s demonstration tournament, my daughter initially said, "Don’t come and watch!" But afterward, she proudly told me, "I did my best." Seeing how much they adore their instructors is heartwarming. As they advance in rank, they’ve gained confidence and a strong desire to continue training. I truly appreciate how Aikido teaches them respect and discipline.
FAQs
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact us via the inquiry form, telephone or fax.
Aikido Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo
2F Toyo Building, 4-17-15 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075
Phone: 03-3368-5556
FAX：03-3368-5578
International Senshusei Course
The 35th International Senshusei Course (Reiwa 7)
The International Senshusei Course is a rigorous and immersive program dedicated to the profound study of Yoshinkan Aikido, founded by Master Gozo Shioda. This course transcends intensive physical training alone, instilling the essence of Aikido through disciplined perseverance, rigorous training, and the cultivation of both physical resilience and an indomitable spirit. Moreover, it seeks to develop the character and leadership required of a true instructor.
Distinct from ordinary training, the Senshusei Course follows a highly structured and demanding curriculum. Over the course of approximately one year, participants devote themselves entirely to Aikido, surpassing their limits and forging both body and mind to their utmost potential.
The course aims to prepare participants for Shodan (first-degree black belt), as well as an instructor certification (qualified to recommend up to 4th kyu). It is an ideal path for those who seek to transcend their own boundaries, discipline themselves to the highest degree, and ultimately assume the role of a leader in Aikido. Applications are open to both international and domestic candidates who seek to dedicate themselves to this unparalleled journey of self-cultivation.
We invite dedicated individuals to apply for the 35th International Senshusei Course. Please review the guidelines below with care and submit the required documents via email.
Application Deadline: January 14, 2025 Applications Closed
Results Announcement: January 17, 2025
Information regarding recruitment for the 36th International Senshusei Course (2026) will be announced in autumn of 2025. For the latest updates, please contact us via the inquiry form.
Testimonials from International Senshusei
Beyond Limits: A Journey That Becomes a Lifetime Treasure
30s, Male, USA
Usually when we hear or read something new, we just compare it to our own ideas. If it is the same, we accept it and say that it is correct. If it is not, we say it is incorrect.
In either case, we learn nothing.
- Thich Nhat Hanh
On February 28th, 2017, I graduated from the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo's International Senshusei Course, and in doing so joined a very small community that can claim the same. I arrived in Tokyo in February of 2016 having never practiced Aikido before. I had come specifically for the Senshusei course, which I'd learned about from Robert Twigger's book on the subject some years earlier. Fascinated with the idea of experiencing Japan and taking on the Senshusei course, I saved up for a time, and then packed my bags and took the plunge. The year that followed would prove to be a journey of a lifetime.
For Senshusei, the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo is a laboratory for the testing of one's spirit. For 11 months international participants are subjected to a steady stream of tasks intended to harden the body and hone the mind, with opportunities to explore the limits of personal resolve abundant throughout.
For someone considering the Senshusei course, it's important to understand that learning the physical mechanics of Yoshinkan-style Aikido is only one aspect of this highly demanding, full-time budo bootcamp. Self-discipline and mental acuity are weighted equally alongside technique. Heightened awareness and self-control under duress are seen as paramount qualities to attain and continuously sharpen. Refined over half a century, the Senshusei curriculum aims to cultivate the entirety of the individual.
The Senshusei course progresses through distinct phases, each one building on the previous, each one offering unique adversities to overcome. And while Senshusei encounter these difficulties together, no two individuals will have precisely the same experience. This is in large part thanks to the cadre of instructors involved with the Senshusei course, and the tailored attention they give to each trainee. If at any given moment you're under the impression that you're doing your very best, it won't be long before an attentive sensei will challenge that premise, pushing you to dig deeper, try harder, and give more of yourself than you thought you had to give. As a result, each Senshusei travels a path of self-improvement that will not entirely mirror that of those around them. Moreover, the attitude, motivation, and determination of each Senshusei will play an enormous role in shaping their overall experience. Simply put, what one gets out of the course will ultimately be decided by what one puts into the course.
If you're reading this and you or someone you know is considering giving the International Senshusei Course a try, allow me to assure you that the course is alive and well, still commencing each year on April 1st, and still welcoming committed persons from around the globe, just as it has since 1991. So, if you're curious, inquire. If, however, you already know that you've got what it takes, apply, and then come on over - the journey of a lifetime awaits.
Surpass Yourself, Discover Yourself
30s, Female, UK
As well as get you into the best shape of your life, and give you excellent foundations for a most fulfilling art, the Senshusei course above all allows you to know yourself better. On one hand, the course pushes you past what you think are your physical limits, and you discover new ones for yourself, realise that you are capable of more than you thought. On a spiritual level, and through the weekly essays, the course allows you to reflect deeply on yourself, on your behaviour, reactions, and perceptions, and gives you a platform to change the things about yourself that you don't like.
It is also a rare opportunity to just do Aikido. Every day, week after week, discovering a better way to move your body, you knees, hips, or arms, to breathe, as you become, slowly, step by step, a little more effective. If you love Aikido now, you will learn to love it more, marveling at its seemingly endless layers and complexities, and the feeling of it, its flow.
The course is not comfortable, it is hard work. But as they say when you get there: "you will get from it what you put into it". Its rewards are truly great if you embrace the challenge.
From Clueless Beginner to Role Model
20s, Male, USA
Doing the senshusei course means 11 months in an authentic and grueling training environment with some of the top teachers in the world. The course took me from being someone who didn't even know how to tie his own belt to the point where I can now serve as a model for others. Looking back it's still amazing to see that this transformation happened in less than a year. I'd recommend it for anyone who knows what they're getting into.
An Enjoyable Hell—Beyond It, a New You
20s, Male, Norway
Initially, I signed up for the course to build strong basics and experience budo in Aikido, I found both and I could have never imagined I would find so much more. Not only at the dojo, but also surrounded by such a totally different culture - one of modesty, mutual respect, kindness and unbelievable dedication. Same on the mats, I was pushed beyond what I thought were my limits and slowly begun to push myself even further - it takes some time to realise that any limit is where one decides it is. Before I noticed it the "Senshusei attitude" was there even beyond the dojo - "go forward and do your best" - a simple philosophy which often seems to be forgotten.
Training under the best people there are makes one realise how long the chosen path is and no matter how much is behind there is also much more still ahead. It leaves an important image to aspire to, passion and devotion certainly worth spreading further. A difficult year, definitely an "enjoyable hell" and I know I would have never traded it off for anything else! It was simply great!
Beyond Limits: A Journey That Becomes a Lifetime Treasure
30s, Male, USA
Usually when we hear or read something new, we just compare it to our own ideas. If it is the same, we accept it and say that it is correct. If it is not, we say it is incorrect.
In either case, we learn nothing.
- Thich Nhat Hanh
On February 28th, 2017, I graduated from the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo's International Senshusei Course, and in doing so joined a very small community that can claim the same. I arrived in Tokyo in February of 2016 having never practiced Aikido before. I had come specifically for the Senshusei course, which I'd learned about from Robert Twigger's book on the subject some years earlier. Fascinated with the idea of experiencing Japan and taking on the Senshusei course, I saved up for a time, and then packed my bags and took the plunge. The year that followed would prove to be a journey of a lifetime.
For Senshusei, the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo is a laboratory for the testing of one's spirit. For 11 months international participants are subjected to a steady stream of tasks intended to harden the body and hone the mind, with opportunities to explore the limits of personal resolve abundant throughout.
For someone considering the Senshusei course, it's important to understand that learning the physical mechanics of Yoshinkan-style Aikido is only one aspect of this highly demanding, full-time budo bootcamp. Self-discipline and mental acuity are weighted equally alongside technique. Heightened awareness and self-control under duress are seen as paramount qualities to attain and continuously sharpen. Refined over half a century, the Senshusei curriculum aims to cultivate the entirety of the individual.
The Senshusei course progresses through distinct phases, each one building on the previous, each one offering unique adversities to overcome. And while Senshusei encounter these difficulties together, no two individuals will have precisely the same experience. This is in large part thanks to the cadre of instructors involved with the Senshusei course, and the tailored attention they give to each trainee. If at any given moment you're under the impression that you're doing your very best, it won't be long before an attentive sensei will challenge that premise, pushing you to dig deeper, try harder, and give more of yourself than you thought you had to give. As a result, each Senshusei travels a path of self-improvement that will not entirely mirror that of those around them. Moreover, the attitude, motivation, and determination of each Senshusei will play an enormous role in shaping their overall experience. Simply put, what one gets out of the course will ultimately be decided by what one puts into the course.
If you're reading this and you or someone you know is considering giving the International Senshusei Course a try, allow me to assure you that the course is alive and well, still commencing each year on April 1st, and still welcoming committed persons from around the globe, just as it has since 1991. So, if you're curious, inquire. If, however, you already know that you've got what it takes, apply, and then come on over - the journey of a lifetime awaits.
Surpass Yourself, Discover Yourself
30s, Female, UK
As well as get you into the best shape of your life, and give you excellent foundations for a most fulfilling art, the Senshusei course above all allows you to know yourself better. On one hand, the course pushes you past what you think are your physical limits, and you discover new ones for yourself, realise that you are capable of more than you thought. On a spiritual level, and through the weekly essays, the course allows you to reflect deeply on yourself, on your behaviour, reactions, and perceptions, and gives you a platform to change the things about yourself that you don't like.
It is also a rare opportunity to just do Aikido. Every day, week after week, discovering a better way to move your body, you knees, hips, or arms, to breathe, as you become, slowly, step by step, a little more effective. If you love Aikido now, you will learn to love it more, marveling at its seemingly endless layers and complexities, and the feeling of it, its flow.
The course is not comfortable, it is hard work. But as they say when you get there: "you will get from it what you put into it". Its rewards are truly great if you embrace the challenge.
From Clueless Beginner to Role Model
20s, Male, USA
Doing the senshusei course means 11 months in an authentic and grueling training environment with some of the top teachers in the world. The course took me from being someone who didn't even know how to tie his own belt to the point where I can now serve as a model for others. Looking back it's still amazing to see that this transformation happened in less than a year. I'd recommend it for anyone who knows what they're getting into.
An Enjoyable Hell—Beyond It, a New You
20s, Male, Norway
Initially, I signed up for the course to build strong basics and experience budo in Aikido, I found both and I could have never imagined I would find so much more. Not only at the dojo, but also surrounded by such a totally different culture - one of modesty, mutual respect, kindness and unbelievable dedication. Same on the mats, I was pushed beyond what I thought were my limits and slowly begun to push myself even further - it takes some time to realise that any limit is where one decides it is. Before I noticed it the "Senshusei attitude" was there even beyond the dojo - "go forward and do your best" - a simple philosophy which often seems to be forgotten.
Training under the best people there are makes one realise how long the chosen path is and no matter how much is behind there is also much more still ahead. It leaves an important image to aspire to, passion and devotion certainly worth spreading further. A difficult year, definitely an "enjoyable hell" and I know I would have never traded it off for anything else! It was simply great!
FAQs
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact us via the inquiry form, telephone or fax.
Aikido Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo
2F Toyo Building, 4-17-15 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075
Phone: 03-3368-5556
FAX：03-3368-5578
Dojo Information
Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0075, Japan
Fax: +81-3-3368-5578
Seibu Shinjuku Line: 5-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station (Waseda Exit)
Tokyo Metro Tozai Line: 5-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station (Exit 1)
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:15 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:15 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:15 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:15 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Beyond Limits: A Journey That Becomes a Lifetime Treasure
30s, Male, USA
Usually when we hear or read something new, we just compare it to our own ideas. If it is the same, we accept it and say that it is correct. If it is not, we say it is incorrect.
In either case, we learn nothing.
- Thich Nhat Hanh
On February 28th, 2017, I graduated from the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo's International Senshusei Course, and in doing so joined a very small community that can claim the same. I arrived in Tokyo in February of 2016 having never practiced Aikido before. I had come specifically for the Senshusei course, which I'd learned about from Robert Twigger's book on the subject some years earlier. Fascinated with the idea of experiencing Japan and taking on the Senshusei course, I saved up for a time, and then packed my bags and took the plunge. The year that followed would prove to be a journey of a lifetime.
For Senshusei, the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo is a laboratory for the testing of one's spirit. For 11 months international participants are subjected to a steady stream of tasks intended to harden the body and hone the mind, with opportunities to explore the limits of personal resolve abundant throughout.
For someone considering the Senshusei course, it's important to understand that learning the physical mechanics of Yoshinkan-style Aikido is only one aspect of this highly demanding, full-time budo bootcamp. Self-discipline and mental acuity are weighted equally alongside technique. Heightened awareness and self-control under duress are seen as paramount qualities to attain and continuously sharpen. Refined over half a century, the Senshusei curriculum aims to cultivate the entirety of the individual.
The Senshusei course progresses through distinct phases, each one building on the previous, each one offering unique adversities to overcome. And while Senshusei encounter these difficulties together, no two individuals will have precisely the same experience. This is in large part thanks to the cadre of instructors involved with the Senshusei course, and the tailored attention they give to each trainee. If at any given moment you're under the impression that you're doing your very best, it won't be long before an attentive sensei will challenge that premise, pushing you to dig deeper, try harder, and give more of yourself than you thought you had to give. As a result, each Senshusei travels a path of self-improvement that will not entirely mirror that of those around them. Moreover, the attitude, motivation, and determination of each Senshusei will play an enormous role in shaping their overall experience. Simply put, what one gets out of the course will ultimately be decided by what one puts into the course.
If you're reading this and you or someone you know is considering giving the International Senshusei Course a try, allow me to assure you that the course is alive and well, still commencing each year on April 1st, and still welcoming committed persons from around the globe, just as it has since 1991. So, if you're curious, inquire. If, however, you already know that you've got what it takes, apply, and then come on over - the journey of a lifetime awaits.
Surpass Yourself, Discover Yourself
30s, Female, UK
As well as get you into the best shape of your life, and give you excellent foundations for a most fulfilling art, the Senshusei course above all allows you to know yourself better. On one hand, the course pushes you past what you think are your physical limits, and you discover new ones for yourself, realise that you are capable of more than you thought. On a spiritual level, and through the weekly essays, the course allows you to reflect deeply on yourself, on your behaviour, reactions, and perceptions, and gives you a platform to change the things about yourself that you don't like.
It is also a rare opportunity to just do Aikido. Every day, week after week, discovering a better way to move your body, you knees, hips, or arms, to breathe, as you become, slowly, step by step, a little more effective. If you love Aikido now, you will learn to love it more, marveling at its seemingly endless layers and complexities, and the feeling of it, its flow.
The course is not comfortable, it is hard work. But as they say when you get there: "you will get from it what you put into it". Its rewards are truly great if you embrace the challenge.
From Clueless Beginner to Role Model
20s, Male, USA
Doing the senshusei course means 11 months in an authentic and grueling training environment with some of the top teachers in the world. The course took me from being someone who didn't even know how to tie his own belt to the point where I can now serve as a model for others. Looking back it's still amazing to see that this transformation happened in less than a year. I'd recommend it for anyone who knows what they're getting into.
An Enjoyable Hell—Beyond It, a New You
20s, Male, Norway
Initially, I signed up for the course to build strong basics and experience budo in Aikido, I found both and I could have never imagined I would find so much more. Not only at the dojo, but also surrounded by such a totally different culture - one of modesty, mutual respect, kindness and unbelievable dedication. Same on the mats, I was pushed beyond what I thought were my limits and slowly begun to push myself even further - it takes some time to realise that any limit is where one decides it is. Before I noticed it the "Senshusei attitude" was there even beyond the dojo - "go forward and do your best" - a simple philosophy which often seems to be forgotten.
Training under the best people there are makes one realise how long the chosen path is and no matter how much is behind there is also much more still ahead. It leaves an important image to aspire to, passion and devotion certainly worth spreading further. A difficult year, definitely an "enjoyable hell" and I know I would have never traded it off for anything else! It was simply great!