News and Notes
*** IMPORTANT NOTICE - CLASS SCHEDULE***
8 May 2025
Current Class Schedule
This schedule supercedes the one in the Schedule link on the left!
- Sunday - 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - Karate
- Monday - 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. - ZOOM Class with Ikeda Sensei - May 19, 2025 (only).
- Tuesday - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Aikido - A Deeper Look at Ukemi
- Tuesday - 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Aiki Youth Program
- Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. - 7:20 p.m. - Karate
- Wednesday - 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Weapons skills
- Wednesday - 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. - Low-impact Aikido
- Thursday - 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Aiki Youth Program
- Thursday - 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - Aikido Open Class
- Friday - 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. - Aikido Open Class
- Friday - 7:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. - Aikido
- Saturday - 10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. - Aikido - Beginner to Advanced. You are welcome to wear a mask. Hand sanitizer is available and should be used regularly by everyone! Mats and surfaces are sanitized regularly.
Remembering O Sensei
26 April 2025
Aikido Founder Morihei Ueshiba died on April 26th, (Japan time) in 1969. Here is his grave at the Omoto compound in Ayabe (top, with inset of Moriteru Ueshiba Doshu visiting the grave in 2017) and his grave at the Shingon temple Kozan-ji in Tanabe, Wakayama (bottom). (Photo from Aikido Sangenkai – Christopher Li.) Here is an interesting history of O Sensei.
Seminar with Don Ellingsworth Sensei and Julie Tollen Sensei
25 February 2025
We are holding a seminar April 11 - 13, 2025 with Don Ellingsworth Sensei and Julie Tollen Sensei. Don Ellingsworth, 6th dan ASU, is a head instructor at Chuseikan Dojo in Tampa Bay, Florida. Julie Tollen Sensei (4 dan, ASU) is also an instructor at Chuseikan Dojo. You can read more about them in the flyer, which you can download a here. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. April should still be reasonably comfortable in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. You can register for the seminar and pay at the dojo (cash or check; sorry, no credit cards): Cost for the full seminar is $100. You can choose to attend individual sessions for $30 each. The session schedule is:
- Friday evening, April 11, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, April 12, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, April 12, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, April 13, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Remembering Jon Takagi Sensei
4 February 2025
Jon Mamoru Takagi Sensei founded Arizona Aikikai in 1968 and served as its Chief Instructor until his death, Feburary 5, 1984. On THIS February 5, 2025, we take a moment to remember Takagi Sensei, 41 years after his death and 57 years after the founding of Arizona Aikido! This photo was taken in the First Street Dojo, just south of Roosevelt St., Phoenix, Arizona. Thanks to Takagi Sensei's son, Koichi Takagi, for this photo.
Arizona Aikido Students - Pay Your Aikido Schools of Ueshiba Dues via PayPal
19 December 2024
We set up a page for you to pay your Aikido Schools of Ueshiba dues via PayPal. Note that you don't need a PayPal account to accomplish this; you may just use your credit or debit card. Go here to pay via PayPal. (Note that we will charge you a little bit extra to cover the Paypal fee!) Of course, you can still pay your ASU dues the old fashioned way - with cash or a check!
Annual Ikeda Shihan Seminar - December 13 - 15, 2024
16 December 2024
We had a GREAT seminar with Ikeda Shihan! He'll be back next year, December 12 - 14, 2025! Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan has been a strong supporter of Arizona Aikido for more than half of our 56 years of existence! He returns to Arizona Agatsu Dojo December 13-15, 2024! Ikeda Shihan is seen in this photo taken at the in-person Ikeda Seminar we had in 2019 (Sorry, we don't seem to have a more recent photo!).Please don't miss this opportunity to train with Ikeda Sensei. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. December should be beautiful in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. Download a flier. You are welcome to wear a mask while training. We highly recommend that you be vaccinated and boosted for COVID! You can register for the seminar and pay online: Cost for the full seminar is $175. You can choose to attend individual sessions for $45 each. The session schedule is:
Party Saturday Evening at the dojo ($20 per person) Authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki will be served! In the boxes below, select the Seminar only or the Seminar including the Saturday Party, and identify the person attending. Once you complete your selections, you can use the View Cart button to complete your registration and payment. Don't forget to use the drop-down to select BOTH the seminar AND the party!
- Friday evening, December 13, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, December 14, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, December 14, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, December 15, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Remembering Tsuneji Sakakibara Sensei
22 July 2024
We remember Sakakibara Sensei fondly on the eleventh anniversary of his death on July 22, 2013. Sakakibara Sensei was very important to Arizona Aikido! After the death of Jon Takagi Sensei in February 1984, Sakakibara Sensei stepped in to fill the role of Chief Instructor. He held the dojo together, brought us back into union with Hombu Dojo, and kept us training. He started the first Fall Mountain Camp in Prescott when he saw the need for us to get away from the Valley, come together as a family, and grieve Takagi Sensei's loss. Eventually, he turned the dojo over to Tom Haines Sensei but continued to teach as Chief Instructor Emeritus. We still miss him immensley and we honor his memory. Read Sensei's biography here.One of the ways we remember him is through the Sakakibara Sensei Memorial Scholarship Fund. If you'd like to donate to the Fund, you may do so using the Donate button below.
Kagami Biraki Promotions of Note
14 January 2024
We are extremely pleased to announce the following Kagami Biraki promotions for dojo members:
- Yoshi Kumagai Sensei - 5th dan
- Amir Moayedpardazi Sensei - 5th dan
Special Seminar with Chetan Prakash Sensei!
4 January 2024
Chetan Prakash, 6 dan ASU, is Chief Instructor of Redlands Aikikai in Redlands, California. He is a founding member of the Executive Board of the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. In 2012, Prakash Sensei was named a member of the Ueshiba Juku by Saotome Shihan. You can read more about Prakash Sensei in the flyer, which you can download a here. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. January should be beautiful in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. You can register for the seminar and pay online: Cost for the full seminar is $100. You can choose to attend individual sessions for $30 each. The session schedule is:
- Friday evening, January 12, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, January 13, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, January 13, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, January 14, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Seminar with Lia Suzuki, 6th dan
23 July 2023
We had a GREAT seminar with Lia Suzuki Sensei September 29, 30, and October 1, 2023 We are looking forward to our next opportunity to train with her!
Annual Ikeda Sensei Seminar - December 9 - 11, 2022
11 December 2022
Party Saturday Evening at the dojo (Suggested donation of $20) Authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki will be served! Can't make it to Phoenix for this seminar? Register for the Zoom sessions. All three days for $75! Register for Zoom HERE:
- Friday evening, December 9, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, December 10, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, December 10, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, December 11, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Arizona Aikido - Matsuri Video
10 March 2021
Arizona Aikido participated in the Virtual Matsuri in Phoenix this year. What you see here is the video presentation we made. If you are interested in learning Aikido, reach us through our Contact Us link.
*** IMPORTANT NOTICE ***
9 November 2020
Here are some guidelines as to how we'll behave in the dojo:
- Wear your gi to the dojo or have only one person in a changing area at a time. We may also use the bathrooms and shower room to change.
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before and after training.
- You are required to wear a mask. This is more to protect others than it is to protect yourself.
- Sanitize weapons before and after use with Lysol.
- Don't trade weapons with another person; continue using the weapons you are using.
- Try to maintain a six-foot separation from others who are training.
- Launder your gi after each use. If you don't have a clean gi to wear, wear street clothes, but launder those afterward, as well.
I know this seems like a bit of a load to put on everyone, but we need to be cautious as we move into this new paradigm.
We will ask you to sign a COVID-19 waiver. We feel this is a necessary precaution on our part.
Also remember, if you don't feel comfortable coming to training at this time, don't! It's OK. You need to do what you need to do. Please do stay in touch!
Training will be a bit different from what it was before this pandemic started, but flexibility is one of the characteristics of the Aikidoka (Aikido practitioner). Let's continue the journey!
Ikeda Sensei Zoom Seminar
1 November 2020
** IMPORTANT NOTICE - UPDATED**
1 May 2020
Aikido is a full-contact art. It is not possible to train in the dojo and maintain social distance. Therefore, Aikido training in the dojo is suspended until at least May 31, 2020! The novel coronavirus global pandemic is upon us. Entire countries are on lockdown and global measures are being taken to slow the spread and impact of what may be the largest public health emergency we’ve faced in our lifetimes. As Aikido practitioners, our very way of life has been upended. The foundation of the art we love so much is human connection, after all. These are challenging times, and the actions we take now will impact our families, friends, communities, and the future of the art of Aikido itself. Aikido teaches us to remain calm in the face of danger, to be adaptive, and to neutralize threats in a way that creates collective benefit. Now is the time for us to make some hard decisions. This is the moment for us to put our training into practice in a real-world crisis. The world is facing a challenge of enormous scale and human impact with the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Based on recent developments, I wanted to reach out to you and provide an update on the actions we are taking to help prevent the spread of the virus and support the health and wellbeing of our student and broader community. After consulting data and recommendations from the WHO, CDC, and the State of Arizona, we have decided to cancel classes through the month of March. Social distancing is an effective way to prevent transmission and the earlier that measures are taken, the larger the positive impact we can have on the spread of the virus. Effective today, group classes at the dojo will be cancelled through Thursday April 30. We will reevaluate this decision on a regular basis and either terminate or extend it, as necessary. The decision to close the dojo during this period has not been made lightly, but the health and safety of our community is our highest priority. This is an opportunity for us to put our training into practice, to adapt to a short term challenge and show our resiliency and ability to collaborate for the greater good. Please monitor your email for updates. Stay safe and healthy.
Donate to Arizona Aikido
30 April 2020
Arizona Aikido is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation. Please consider donating to us to help us through the COVID-19 pandemic. We continue to have normal expenses while not being able to train. Not all members are able to continue paying monthly dues during this time. Thanks for any help you can provide!
Message from Saotome Sensei
31 March 2020
A message form Saotome Sensei! I hope that all Aikidoka everywhere in the world stay safe. Aiki is the ability to recognize circumstances around you and adapt. For example, I hear you are using new technology to keep to keep connected. Very good! I am very proud that my students have put safety first and closed their dojo. Taking care of the community was always in the heart of O’Sensei. If we help each other, we will get through this and return to our usual practice. Please know that Patricia, my wife, and I are safe and taken care of here in Sarasota. I hope to see all of you soon. Mitsugi Saotome, Shihan Aikido Schools of Ueshiba
Special Seminar with William Gleason Sensei - April 24-26, 2020 - ** POSTPONED **
14 March 2020
** NOTICE ** THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED!
We will update this information when we complete the new schedule. William Gleason, Aikido - 7th dan, is the founder and head instructor of Shobu Aikido in Somerville, MA. He is also the author of two books about Aikido, spirituality and kototama. He lived in Japan from 1969 - 80 where he trained in traditional aikido and Japanese sword at Hombu Dojo. Gleason Sensei received his 1st degree black in 1972 from Kisshomaru Ueshiba and in 1998 was given his 6th degree black belt from Mitsugi Saotome. Download a flier here The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. Register and pay here:
Recommendations for Attending Seminars and Camps
10 March 2020
Shared from the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba Website: http://www.asu.org In light of the recent public concern regarding COVID-19/Coronavirus, the following recommendations should be implemented by all Aikido students attending seminars and camps – as well as any regular dojo keiko (training).Attending an Aikido event is your choice, but it is strongly recommended that you follow the above protocols.
- Wash hands thoroughly (20 seconds) with soap and water before and after class. If washing hands is not practical, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after class.
- Avoid touching your face (eyes, ears, mouth, nose) during training – and while in public in general. During training, try to avoid touching your partner’s face with your hands.
- If you have upper respiratory tract symptoms, do not come to class, and do not return until you both a) feel better and b) are free of fever for at least 24 hours (fever = temperature > 38 C or 100 F).
- Do not wear surgical/respiratory masks on the mat.
- On top of this, washing of gis/clothing should be practiced regularly as well as disinfecting vinyl mat surfaces.
Martial Arts To Protect
9 March 2020
Trent Boudreaux Sensei will be conducting a workshop on March 14, 2020, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. Boudreaux Sensei will cover functional and tactical three-dimensional movement, tactical ukemi, self-defense and Aikido techniques, as well as martial art protective techniques and strategies. For complete information, Download a flier here
First-Keiko-of-the-Year 2020!
21 December 2019
First-of-Year Keiko and Potluck! Friday, January 3, 2020, starting at 6:00 p.m. Plan to work out with us at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2020, as the "first keiko of the year!" Sakakibara Sensei always said that, if you worked out the first keiko of the year and the last keiko of the year, you were considered to have tained all year long! This celebration is a tradition in our dojo! After training, we'll have a potluck, so bring something to share! The photo you see here is from last year. Well, it was the last keiko of 2018 (and the first keiko of 2019). You don't want to miss this clebration!
Annual Ikeda Sensei Seminar
9 December 2019
We had a great seminar with Ikeda Sensei! We'll try to have some photos up shortly! Thanks, Ikeda Sensei! Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan has been a strong supporter of Arizona Aikido for more than half of our 50 years of existence! He returns to Arizona Agatsu Dojo December 6-8, 2019! He is seen in this photo taken at the Prescott Camp in September 1991, 28 years ago. Don Crawford Sensei is taking ukemi in the photo. Click on the photo for a flier. Please don't miss this opportunity to train with Ikeda Sensei. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. December should be beautiful in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. You can register for the seminar and pay online: Cost for the full seminar is $175. You can choose to attend individual sessions for $45 each.The session schedule is:
- Friday evening, December 6, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, December 7, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, December 7, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, December 8, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Jim Alvarez, 6th dan, ASU - September 20-22, 2019
28 July 2019
Jim Alvarez, 6th dan, Aikido Schools of Ueshiba will be in Phoenix, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday September 20-22, 2019, for a seminar. Alvarez Sensei has trained not only with Mitsugi Saotome Shihan, founder of Aikido Schools of Ueshiba, but also with Toshishiro Obata Kaiso in the art of Shinkendo. He is a skilled swordsman. Alvarez Sensei is the Chief Instructor at Aikido of Livermore - Shinrei Dojo. You don't want to miss this opportunity to train with Alvarez Sensei! Download a flier here Register and pay here:
Mary Heiny Sensei in Tucson!
7 April 2019
Mary Heiny, 7th dan, was at Aikido at the Center, 3045 N. Stone Ave., Tucson, AZ 85711, April 5-7, 2019. Heiny Sensei recently had surgery on her shoulder, so this seminar was an interesting look at how one does Aikido in a difficult situation! Several of our students were able to attend the seminar and joined Aikidoka from Arizona and beyond!
Jamie Zimron, 6th dan - March 22, 2019
22 March 2019
Jamie Leno Zimron, 6th dan was in Phoenix for a special seminar the evening of March 22, 2019. Thanks, Jamie Sensei! Download the flier here Cost for the evening is $25. You can register and pay online:
Celebrating O Sensei's Birthday - December 14, 1883
14 December 2018
Today, December 14, 2018, we celebrate the birth of O Sensei in 1883. The image on the left is a commissioned drawing that was obtained from Bernie Lau Sensei. It is a typical pose for portraits of O Sensei in his later life. The image on the right is courtesy of Aikido Journal. In honor of his birthday, they've made a collection of O-Sensei videos from Aikido Journal TV available to everyone for free viewing today. Please take a few minutes to watch or listen to (radio interview) Morihei Ueshiba, who's had such a positive impact on so many lives and communities. We also hope you'll share this link with others in the aikido community so more will have the opportunity to be inspired by O-Sensei's words and movement. Follow this link
Annual Winter Seminar with Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan
10 September 2018
Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan has been a strong supporter of Arizona Aikido for more than half of our 50 years of existence! He returns to Arizona Agatsu Dojo December 7-9, 2018, to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary! He is seen in this photo taken at the Asian Arts Center probably sometime in 1987, more than 30 years ago. You may recognize some of the folks in the photo. Click on the photo for a flier. Please don't miss this opportunity to train with Ikeda Sensei. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. December should be beautiful in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. You can register for the seminar and pay online: Cost for the full seminar is $175. You can choose to attend individual sessions for $45 each.The session schedule is:
- Friday evening, December 7, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, December 8, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, December 8, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, December 9, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Aikido of Flagstaff New Dojo Grand Opening
3 September 2018
Aikido of Flagstaff is celebrating the Grand Opening of their new dojo, located at 120 S. Beaver St., on Thursday, September 6, 2018, beginning at 4:30 p.m.! Please help them celebrate this new location. Click on the Aikido of Flagstaff logo for a flier.
Thanks to Andre Cognard Sensei for a Great Seminar!
7 July 2018
Many thanks to André Cognard Hanshi for his visit to Phoenix and his instruction over the two days he was here! We look forward to future opportunities to train with Cognard Hanshi.
Cognard Hanshi in Phoenix June 30 - July 1, 2018
6 June 2018
Arizona Aikido is pleased to welcome Andre Cognard Hanshi, 8th dan, Dai Nippon Butoku Kai to Phoenix for a two-day seminar! Don't miss this opportunity to train with Cognard Hanshi! Register and pay online here:
Both Saturday and Sunday $75.00 One day $40.00:
50th Anniversary Celebration with Saotome Shihan!
15 May 2018
We had a great seminar with Mitsugi Saotome Shihan on May 11-13, 2018, in our new dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013! This was our first opportunity to train in the new dojo (Agatsu Dojo) with Saotome Shihan. We are proud to say that he was impressed with the new space! More 50th anniversary celebration seminars are planned in the dojo this year! Please come help us celebrate 50 years in Arizona!
Mitsugi Saotome Shihan Seminar!
27 April 2018
Mitsugi Saotome Shihan has guided Arizona Aikido for more than half of our 50 years of existence. He returns to Arizona Agatsu Dojo May 11-13, 2018, to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary! He is seen in this photo with Tsuneji Sakakibara Sensei observing a dan test on one of his many visits to Arizona. Please don't miss this opportunity to train with a direct student and uchideshi of O Sensei. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. The light rail is easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via the Sky Train. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. May will be warm in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. You can register for the seminar and pay online: Cost for the full seminar is $175. You can choose to attend individual sessions for $45 each.The session schedule is:
- Friday evening, May 11, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday morning, May 12, 10:00 a.m. to noon
- Saturday afternoon, May 12, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning, May 13, 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Arizona Aikido Local Seminar Dates fo 2018
22 January 2018
Arizona Aikido
Local Seminar DatesThese seminars are all scheduled in the dojo. Information on schedules and costs will be available soon. Dojo Location:
- Annual Winter Seminar – Wendy Whited, Sensei – April 13-15, 2018
- 50th Anniversary Celebration – Mitsugi Saotome, Shihan – May 11-13, 2018
- André Cognard, Sensei – June 30 - July 1, 2018
- George Ledyard Sensei – Randori Intensive – October 5-8, 2018
- Annual Winter Seminar – Hiroshi Ikeda, Sensei – December 7-9, 2018
939 W. Camelback Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Wendy Whited, 7th dan Seminar - April 13 - 15, 2018
1 January 2018
Arizona Aikido Agatsu Dojo is proud to present our
Annual Winter Seminar (pushed this year to April!) featuring Wendy Whited, 7th dan, Aikido Schools of Uenshiba, Inaka Dojo, Beecher, Illinois! Whited Sensei has extensively studied Saotome Shihan's aikido, with its strong emphasis on both martial realism and the nurturing of inner peace. In 2015, Saotome Shihan awarded Whited Sensei her 7th degree black belt in recognition of the skill level achieved in her forty-five years of training. Her supplementary studies in Iaido, Judo, and Shorei Ryu Karate give her a well-rounded appreciation of the martial arts. As a retired teacher by profession, she brings a clarity of presentation to classes at Inaka Dojo, as well as to the seminars she teaches around the country as a senior instructor with Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. The seminar will be held at Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. Access to the dojo is easy via the light rail system. Exit at the 7th Avenue Station and the dojo is just a short walk to the west. There is plenty of parking at the dojo, as well. The dojo is immediately east of the 11th Avenue traffic light and bus stop on the south side of Camelback Road. April is a nice time to be in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. Download the flier here You can register and pay online: Cost for the full seminar is $100.
Special Class with Jamie Leno Zimron Sensei - March 16, 2018
31 December 2017
Please note! We made an error on the flier! The dojo address is 939 WEST Camelback Rd.! Cost for the evening is $25 online ($29 at the door). You can register and pay online:
Aikido in the Japanese Friendship Garden
3 October 2017
Arizona Aikido's Agatsu Dojo will be conducting beginning classes in the weapon arts of jo and bokken in the Japanese Friendship Garden - Ro Ho En - on Sunday, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26, and December 3, 10 and 17, 2017, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Classes are $20 each for non-members of the Japanese Friendship Garden. There is a $5 discount per class for members of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Please see the Japanese Friendship Garden Health and Wellness page for complete information and registration.
Special Class - Atemi and Randori - October 14, 2017
21 September 2017
Moylan Ryan Sensei and Vandell Ventura Sensei will facilitate a special class focusing on atemi and randori on October 14, 2017, starting at 12:00 p.m. Please take this opportunity to train!
Fall Mountain Camp 34 is in the books!
18 September 2017
Arizona Aikido's Fall Mountain Camp 2017 is in the books! Thanks to Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan for a wonderful camp! Thanks, too, to all who attended! We began going to an annual camp in Prescott in 1984 after the death of our dojo founder, Jon Mamoru Takagi Sensei. Our then new Chief Instructor, Tsuneji Sakakibara Sensei, felt it was important for us to get away from the Valley and reconnect with our roots, to begin our recovery from the loss of our previous leader. Through the years, we have had the opportunity to train with many different senior instructors. Our first camp was focused only on local instructors – Sakakibara Sensei, Ralph Pfleger (Rafa Mithuna) Sensei, Tom Haines Sensei, Joel Levert Sensei, Ben Mancini Sensei, and Gene Nelson Sensei. In 1985 we were able to host Fumio Toyoda Sensei from Chicago. He and Takagi Sensei had formed the Aikido Association of America and we were a part of that organization. Over the next year, Sakakibara Sensei decided that, with the consent of the dojo membership, we should return to a connection with Hombu Dojo in Japan. That was accomplished by affiliating with the United States Aikido Federation, headed in the Western Region by Kazuo Chiba Sensei who had also taken the name “Taiwa Kigen” Chiba when he became a Buddhist priest. That year, 1986, we had planned to have Frank McGouirk Sensei as our featured instructor. Because of a bit of poor planning on our part, our sister dojo in Tucson had planned to feature Frank Doran Sensei for a seminar on the same weekend. Realizing that trying to have both seminars would be a disaster for both of us, we asked the two Franks if they would mind doing a joint seminar in Prescott. That was acceptable to them, so that is what we did, held the first “Frank & Frank” Seminar. Over the years we know we’ve had other well-known sensei teach at Fall Mountain Camp – T.K. Chiba Sensei, Bruce Bookman Sensei, Coryl Crane Sensei, JoAnn Veneziano Sensei, Glenn Brooks Sensei. Within a few of years our beginning, we settled at Emmanuel Pines Camp with Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei as our featured instructor. Each year we held a Saturday night banquet at the Hotel St. Michael, with music and dancing. We evolved from Fall Mountain Camp to Fall Bridge Camp and added other instructors – 2009, for example, featured Mary Heiny Sensei, Tsuneji Sakakabara Sensei, Kirk Fowler Sensei, and Judith Robinson Sensei, in addition to Ikeda Sensei. In 2010 Mary Heiny Sensei returned, as did Sakakibara Sensei, along with Lia Suzuki Sensei, and Sifu Roger Fenneman. In 2012 George Ledyard Sensei joined us along with the instructors from 2011. In 2014 we returned to single-instructor format for camp, still featuring Ikeda Sensei. In 2015 we moved our Saturday night banquet from the Hotel St. Michael to a catered dinner in the dojo at Emmanuel Pines Camp. We did the same in 2016, but in 2017 we moved the banquet back into Prescott at the Gurley Street Grill. That brings us to the conclusion of our Fall Mountain Camp. We have decided that this camp no longer works for us in the manner we had envisioned, so 2017 was our last camp! We plan to continue our very long relationship with Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei, who will be back with us in December 2018 in Phoenix. Please watch for details of this seminar. Thanks to everyone who has supported us over the years as we trained each September in Prescott! We hope you’ll continue to support our dojo as we move forward!
Fall Mountain Camp 34!
29 July 2017
Arizona Aikido's annual Fall Mountain Camp will be held at Emmanuel Pines Camp in Prescott, Arizona, the weekend after Labor Day, Thursday evening, September 7 through Sunday noon, September 10, 2017. Our featured instructor is Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan. Some sessions may be taught by local Arizona senior instructors. Information on cost and online registration are available here. Download a flier. Download a map of Emmanuel Pines Camp. Weather information for Prescott. If you need transportation from the airport to Prescott, check with us first. If we can't find a ride for you, check airport shuttle services here. Rental cars are also available at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. If you are staying at Emmanuel Pines Camp, you will need a sleeping bag or sheet, pillow, blanket, towel and your toiletries. We have a limited number of linens available for an extra fee of $10.00. Or you can look for other lodging in Prescott. Please note that Emmanuel Pines Camp is not within walking distance of any lodging in Prescott. Please bring your jo and bokken. We do have a limited number of weapons for those who are unable to bring their own. Information about Emmanuel Pines Camp. The camp does not have information about this seminar, so please do not contact them about it. Directions to Emmanuel Pines Camp. Many people take the opportunity while at camp to check out historic Prescott. Whiskey Row is a popular area that is easily accessible on Friday evening or on Saturday evening after the banquet. Additional information about Prescott is available from the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. The Grand Canyon is about 130 miles from Prescott, a 2.5 hour drive, and is also a popular spot to visit while you are here.
Promotions!
20 March 2017
We are proud to announce the following kyu promotions from from testing last week: Chad - 4th kyu
Tony - 6th kyu
Josh - 6th kyu
Congratulations,everyone!
Death of Stanley Pranin
10 March 2017
We noted this post on Facebook this morning from George Ledyard, 7th dan, Aikido Schools of Ueshiba: I am sad to announce that Stanley Pranin has passed away. Many of you may know him as the publisher of Aikido Journal and the man who hosted the three Aiki Expos in early 2000's. Stan was the preeminent historian of Aikido and its parent art, Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu in the English language. His entire adult life revolved around Aikido. We will miss him greatly.
Happy Birthday Mitsugi Saotome Sensei
7 March 2017
Mitsugi Saotome Sensei's birthday is March 7. He is the founder of the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. We wish him the very best of everything on this auspicious occasion!
4-Day Mind / Body Principles Intensive with George Ledyard Sensei
4 March 2017
October 6th – 9th 2017
George Ledyard Sensei, Aikido 7th Dan and direct student of Mitsugi Saotome Shihan
Arizona Aikido in Phoenix Mind / Body Principles in Aikido - $275 This intensive will offer four full days of instruction on the mind / body principles that function to create aiki. First we will focus on how to develop the “platform”, the integrated body required to do Aikido waza. Explanation and exercises on how to use the “intent” to unify the body will be a focus. Once we have established the basic “platform”. we will look at how to make that platform move-able. By the end of the four days, we will cover how the various principles we have studied apply in basic Aikido kihon waza. The goal is for the students to have the tools to become their own teachers using a principle based way of approaching their training. This seminar is open to students of all levels and affiliations. There is a limit of 40 students to ensure that students get maximum personal attention. Online Registration
Arizona Aikido Annual Winter Seminar
16 January 2017
Arizona Aikido's Annual Winter Seminar took place February 17–19, 2017, and featured Yoshi Shibata Sensei. This was the first time Shibata Sensei had taught in the Phoenix area! We're sorry if you missed this seminar! Watch for future opportunities to train with Shibata Sensei. You'll find the flier here. The seminar was held at Longview Elementary School (map). If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather. You can still pay for the seminar online below:
Full seminar - $100:
Saturday only - $75:
One session (Friday, 1/2 day Saturday, Sunday) - $50: Which session? Friday evening Saturday morning Saturday afternoon Sunday morning
Dojo Update
27 December 2016
This image will let you see the mats in place. They are not yet fully installed, but we can train on them. Keep watching this page for updates on the status of our dojo, located at 939. W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013. We're not quite in a regular schedule, yet. Keep watching this page for updates.
Happy Birthday, Osensei!
14 December 2016
Happy Birthday, Osensei! December 14, 1883! Thanks, Osensei, for the legacy you have left us!
Seminar with Jim Alvarez Sensei
20 October 2016
Jim Alvarez, 6th dan, Aikido of Livermore Shinrei Dojo, will be in Phoenix for a special seminar December 2 - 4, 2016. Download the flier here December is a good time to be in Phoenix! If you'd like to check it, here's the Phoenix weather.
You can register and pay online:
Arizona Aikido Has Moved!
17 October 2016
We have moved to a new dojo located at 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013! October 15, 2016, was our last day at the Asian Arts Center. For what it's worth, we were there for 30 years! It will take us a little bit of time to finish preparing the new space, which we are calling Arizona Agatsu Dojo. Watch this Web site for information on when classes will resume at Arizona Agatsu Dojo. If you need more information, you can always use the Contact form. Thanks for your patience!
Arizona Aikido at the Japanese Friendship Garden
17 September 2016
On January 17, 2016, Arizona Aikido gave a demonstration of Aikido at the Japanese Friendship Garden (Ro Ho En). Check out this video to see images of our preparation, some of the actual demonstration, and some scenes from the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Arizona Aikido Fall Mountain Camp 2016
12 September 2016
Our 2016 Fall Mountain Camp is in the books! Thanks to Hiroshi Ikeda, Shihan for his wonderful instruction! Thanks, too, to all the local Aikido instructors who led sessions at camp. We truly appreciate you presence at FMC! Start planning now for next year's Fall Mountain Camp September 7 - 10, 2017!
Arizona Aikido Fall Mountain Camp 2016
30 August 2016
Arizona Aikido's annual Fall Mountain Camp will be held at Emmanuel Pines Camp in Prescott, Arizona, the weekend after Labor Day, Thursday evening, September 8 through Sunday noon, September 11, 2016. Our featured instructor is Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan. Some sessions will be taught by local Arizona senior instructors. Information on cost and online registration are available here. Download a flier. Download a schedule. Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Download a map of Emmanuel Pines Camp. Weather information for Prescott. If you need transportation from the airport to Prescott, check with us first. If we can't find a ride for you, check airport shuttle services here. Rental cars are also available at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. If you are staying at Emmanuel Pines Camp, you will need a sleeping bag or sheet, pillow, blanket, towel and your toiletries. We have a limited number of linens available for an extra fee of $10.00. Or you can look for other lodging in Prescott. Please note that Emmanuel Pines Camp is not within walking distance of any lodging in Prescott. Please bring your jo and bokken. We do have a limited number of weapons for those who are unable to bring their own. Information about Emmanuel Pines Camp. The camp does not have information about this seminar, so please do not contact them about it. Directions to Emmanuel Pines Camp. Many people take the opportunity while at camp to check out historic Prescott. Whiskey Row is a popular area that is easily accessible on Friday evening or on Saturday evening after the banquet. Additional information about Prescott is available from the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. The Grand Canyon is about 130 miles from Prescott, a 2.5 hour drive, and is also a popular spot to visit while you are here.
Third Anniversary of Sakakibara Sensei's Death
22 July 2016
We remember Sakakibara Sensei fondly on this third anniversary of his death. One of the ways we remember him is through the Sakakibara Sensei Memorial Scholarship Fund. If you'd like to donate to the Fund, you may do so using the Donate button below. Read Sensei's biography here.
Death of Dr. Craig Eddy, 6th dan, Aikido Schools of Ueshiba
10 May 2016
We are saddened to report that Dr. Craig Eddy, 6th dan, Aikido Schools of Ueshiba, and a key member of the ASU Board of Directors died on May 7, 2016. You'll find the announcement on the ASU Web site.
Promotions!
28 March 2015
We are proud to announce the following kyu promotions from from testing this week:Congratulations!
Nancy -2nd kyu Bryan -5th kyu Candace -5th kyu Amy -6th kyu Don -6th kyu Fred -6th kyu
Dan Promotions
8 September 2014
We are proud to announce the following dan promotions from our Fall Mountain Camp:The tests were exceptionally well-done! Congratulations!
Ron -nidan Skip -nidan Stephen -nidan Jeff -nidan
Promotions
29 August 2014
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
Nancy -sankyu Cameron -gokyu Bryan -rokyu Chad -rokyu Dominic -rokyu
Death of Dennis Hooker Shihan
23 May 2014
We were saddened to learn of the death of Aikido Schools of Ueshiba senior instructor Dennis Hooker, 7th dan, Shindai Aikikai, Orlando, FL. The only information we have at this time is the announcement of the arrangements on the Shindai Aikikai Web site. Click the photo of Hooker Shihan for information on his background.
Promotions
29 March 2014
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
Thai -shodan Nancy -yonkyu Aaron -gokyu Laurel -sankyu Helmut -ikkyu Cameron -rokyu
Robert Ross Bugh, Sr. - Soke Bugh
26 March 2014
Funeral services for our friend, Robert Ross Bugh, Sr., will be held at St. Mary Basilica, 231 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, Arizona 85004, on Saturday, March 29, 2014. There will be a viewing at 8:45 a.m. and the funeral Mass will be at 9:45 a.m. You can read his obituary here. Bobby was an early student of Jon Takagi Sensei and a long-time friend of both Takagi Sensei and Tsuneji Sakakibara Sensei. He had gone on to develop his own martial arts school, Shobu-Ryu Aiki-Tori-Te Jujutsu/Kobujutsu, Bugh Ha, and was recognized as 10th dan in 2006.
Photo of Jon Mamoru Takagi Sensei c. 1970
12 March 2014
Annual Ikeda Sensei Seminar 2022
14 November 2013
Please join us for our Annual Ikeda Sensei Seminar that will be held at Arizona Agatsu Dojo, 939 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013, December 9 - 11, 2022. Download a flyer for complete information.link text
Death of Tsuneji (Tony) Sakakibara Sensei
4 August 2013
It is with great sadness that we inform you that Tsuneji Sakakibara Sensei died the afternoon of July 22, 2013. He had gone into the hospital that morning and was being treated in ICU. His abdomen was filling with fluid and they were having difficulty keeping it drained. His blood pressure was out of control. He had septicemia (serious blood disease). Sakakibara Sensei was born February 3, 1937, in Handa (Aichi), Japan. He had succeeded Jon Takagi Sensei as Chief Instructor of Arizona Aikido after Takagi Sensei's death. As his health started to fail, he took on the role of Chief Instructor Emeritus. He continued to teach classes at Arizona Aikido on a fairly regular basis. You can download this flier to post in your dojo. Sakakibara Sensei's funeral will be held on Saturday morning, August 10, 2013, at Resthaven Park West Cemetery, 6450 West Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, at 10:00 a.m. with internment to immediately follow the service. You can read Sakakibara Sensei's obituary here..
Promotions
30 April 2013
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
- Ken - shodan
- Paco - ikkyu
- Kaipo - yonkyu
- Nancy - gokyu
- Candace - rokyu
- Andrew - rokyu
Death of Kevin Choate Sensei
6 December 2012
This information was posted on the Chicago Aikikai Web site: In Mourning
Posted on December 2, 2012 by stephen
Today our dear teacher, mentor and friend Kevin Choate Sensei passed away. I don’t have a lot of details at this moment but here is what I have: Viewing/Services: Arrangements will be
Wednesday December 5th; 3-9
Ahern Funeral Home
6938 W. North Avenue, Chicago. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in Kevin’s name.
Kevin’s Family Dojo Stuff: We will be meeting Monday night to talk, plan, remember and see what the next steps are. A more formal dojo event for training drinking and remembering will be figured out and planned with more notice to allow fuller participation. Thank you everyone for your notes and posts on facebook and via email.
Promotions
29 November 2012
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
- Laurel - gokyu
- Marie - yonkyu
Promotions
7 August 2012
We are proud to announce the following promotion:Congratulations!
- Thai - ikkyu
Promotions
9 April 2012
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
- Paco - nikyu
- Helmut - nikyu
- Kaipo - gokyu
- Laurel - rokyu
- Nancy - rokyu
- Robert - rokyu
Promotions
20 September 2011
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
- Ken - ikkyu
Promotions
17 September 2011
We are proud to announce the following promotions:Congratulations!
- Jerry - nidan
- Ron - shodan
- Stephen - shodan
Promotion
19 November 2010
We are proud to announce the following promotion:Congratulations!
- Dang - 5th kyu
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