Aikido at the       Aikibudokan

a koryu ("old tradition") martial arts school offering instruction in aikido, self defense, and classical Japanese Samurai weapons

Most Recent Web Site Update September 2008

The Aikibudokan has offered instruction in the martial arts since 1998 and has come to be considered one of the most respected dojo in Houston based on the background and experience of the instructors and the diverse range of classical martial arts offered.

The instructional staff is one of the largest and most experienced in the area.  The Kancho (Chief Instructor & Training Hall President) has over 40 years of experience in the martial arts and is 7th Degree Black Belt in Aikido, 6th Degree Black Belt in Japanese Samurai weapons and 1st Degree Black Belt in Kodokan Judo.  He is assisted by the Dojo Cho (Dojo Manager) who holds a 6th Degree Black Belt in Aikido and 4th Degree Black Belt in weapons.

Other senior instructors include 4th, 5th and 6th Degree Black Belts in Aikido and weapons arts.  All senior instructions had extensive backgrounds in other martial art forms prior to beginning their study of Aikido and this broad background provides the new student an extensive database of instructors expertise from which they can draw as they begin  their study of martial arts and self-defense.

The martial arts offered at the Aikibudokan are taught from the classical perspective. They do not include a sports component since we consider the concept of koryu ("old tradition or flow") as being more important than competition, trophies and the trend of teaching to the popular "fad of the moment".  We believe that the traditional approach results in a more rounded, better qualified, and more confident martial artist.

This koryu philosophy is somewhat unique and difficult to find in over-commercialized martial arts studios.  It would immediately be recognized by the Samurai or Zen Warrior Monks of ages past as the means by which the best of the past is preserved for future generations, and by which today's "modern samurai" learns self-defense and develops a life philosophy by which he or she can cope with the demands oftoday's fast paced world while learning an art form that enables one to improve their body, mind and spirit