The Japanese martial art of Aikido is a comprehensive system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in traditional Japanese weapons such as the sword, staff and knife. Founded by Morihei Ueshiba early in the twentieth century following his own extensive study of various armed and unarmed martial systems, Aikido represents a potent distillation of centuries of Japanese martial knowledge.
It is one of the most widely practiced budo, or martial way, in the world. However, Ueshiba (commonly called O-Sensei, or “venerable teacher”) was determined that his Aikido be practiced as more than simply a method of fighting. The Japanese martial arts, influenced by the internal and meditative disciplines inherited from India and China, have often carried with them an emphasis on the development of internal, as well as physical, integrity. Wielding the life-taking sword with compassion and insight, the ideal warrior in Japanese thought is more than a simple killing machine; he is a model of uprightness, courage and loyalty, gladly sacrificing life (but never honor) in the name of principle and duty.
Steeped in these traditions, O-Sensei conceived of Aikido as not only a means of vanquishing a foe, but as a means of promoting the positive character of the ideal warrior and ultimately of transcending dualistic conflict. For O-Sensei, Aikido was a path of self-development. He believed that it could be a means for anyone, of any nation, to follow the same path. Aikido is shugyo: an intense physical and spiritual training to perfect human character and develop true wisdom.
The Japanese Culture Center has been offering Traditional Aikido Classes in Chicago since 1978.
The Aikido program at the Chicago Japanese Culture Center was founded by Fumio Toyoda Shihan (teacher of teachers), who was accepted as an uchideshi (live-in apprentice) of O-Sensei. Toyoda Shihan was a 6th degree blackbelt (rokudan) and was the youngest person to receive that rank. Toyoda Shihan would also form the Aikido Association of America and Aikido Association International. The Aikido dojo housed within the Center is Tenshinkan Dojo (place of the divine mind/body/spirit) as is the headquarters for both those organizations.
Schedule and Cost
Monday & Wednesday & Friday
6:30- 8:00 pm
Family Classes on Tuesday
4:30 – 5:30 pm
Tuesday
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Family Classes on Saturday
12:00 – 1:00 pm
Saturday
1:00 – 2:30 pm
*for information about virtual Meditation and Breathing Classes for Aikido, as well as, the Toyoda Shihan Seminar Watch Party links, please contact the JCC Office.
- $110 per month for all classes.
- $70 per month for 1 class a week per month.
- $175 per month to sign up for BOTH Aikido and JKA Karate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Aikido differ from other martial arts?
Is Aikido good for self defense?
Aikido Shihan Fumio Toyoda
6-Week Introductory Course
Aikido for children & teens
Ongoing Training - Classes Offered Seven Days a Week