Aikido in English (weekly)

AIKIDO
Aikido is a Japanese martial art now practiced internationally. Aikido literally means "the Way" (do) of "harmony" (ai) with "energy or nature (Ki)." It's not primarily a system of combat, but rather a means of self-cultivation and improvement. Aikido has no tournaments, competitions, contests, or "sparring." Instead, all aikido techniques are learned cooperatively at a pace commensurate with the abilities of each trainee.

SEIDOKAN AIKIDO
Founded in the U.S. by Roderick Kobayashi Sensei, the objectives of Seidokan Aikido are to study the philosophy and the arts of aikido and further develop them to best suit the modern way of life. Seidokan follows the line of tradition which encourages ongoing refinement of the art to accommodate a modern way of life. Technique tends to utilize movements which are very small and economical. Manifesting the principles of oneness and "loving protection of all things" is the goal of Seidokan practice. This style of aikido is very safe and low-impact.

SEIDOKAN AIKIDO OF TOKYO
Seidokan Aikido of Tokyo was founded in 1995 as an official dojo of Seidokan Aikido. Our aim is to promote the understanding and application of aikido principles through regular practice in the dojo. Students can learn a modern style of aikido in an international environment.

SENSEI
The class is taught in English and led by Chris Koprowski, 5th dan. He hails from Duluth, MN (USA) and has been living and working in Tokyo since 1993. He has been teaching Seidokan Aikido since 1994 and is a certified "shidoin" (instructor) in Seidokan Aikido. Chris is also a shodan (black belt) in Kodokan judo.

PRACTICE
Our dojo welcomes students of all levels—both men and women, Japanese and non-Japanese. Currently, new students are welcome to join in anytime.
The first month of instruction is FREE. Afterwards, dojo membership fees are ¥1,000/month. This covers instruction, exams, and dojo administration. In addition, the sports center charges a ¥320 facility fee each visit (including your first month). Our classes are not officially registered with the sports center and take place in a publicly shared dojo, not a private rental. This means sharing the space with other groups.

Please wear loose fitting clothing that you can move around in. Later, a dogi (practice uniform) is recommended.

Promotional tests are conducted periodically and eligibility depends largely upon regularity of attendance, understanding of technique and aikido principles.

Basic art classes are currently held Saturdays from 1:00 - 2:30pm at Kami Itabashi Sports Center. 11-minute walk from Kamiitabashi Station on the Tobu Tojo Line
20 minutes walk from Hikawadai Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and Fukutoshin Line.

Map: https://www.google.com/maps?ll=35.757071,139.675591&z=15&t=m&hl=en-US&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=11017808789716220239

HOW TO ENTER
1. Walking in the main entrance, go to the ticket machine near the front desk. Buy a ticket for 第一武道場 (大人, ¥320). The ticket machines will not function before 1:00pm.
2. Proceed downstairs where you will find locker rooms, showers, and bathrooms.
3. From 1:00pm you can give the staff your ticket and enter the tatami room dojo on the right. Look for Chris or other members.

NOTE: We require at least TWO students to RSVP by the night before to hold class. If you RSVP and then decide you cannot attend class please inform the instructor before Saturday morning. Thanks!

For more information, please contact Chris at tokyoseidokan@gmail.com