Aikido Shudokan History
Honoring the Masters, Embracing the Legacy of It's Origins
It could be argued that Aikido is one of the earliest mixed martial arts. Developed by Morihei Ueshiba, it combines traditional Japanese martial arts with a focus on mind and body unity, by blending harmonious movement and powerful techniques.
Sokaku Takeda
Founder of Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu
Seminal Influences of the Samurai
1859-1943
Sokaku Takeda, born in 1859 into a samurai family in Aizu-Wakamatsu, Japan. He was the founder of Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu, a martial art that influenced the development of Aikido.
Renowned for his skills, Takeda travelled across Japan teaching techniques that used an opponent’s energy against them, enabling smaller practitioners to defeat stronger foes. He taught a select group of students, including Morihei Ueshiba, who later founded Aikido. Takeda continued teaching until his death in 1943, and his art remains practiced by dedicated students today
Morihei Ueshiba
Aikido's Founding Father
O' Sensei
1883-1969
O Sensei, or “Great Teacher,” refers to Ueshiba Morihei, the founder of Aikido and a leading student of Sokaku Takeda, who taught the art of Daito-Ryu Aikijujutsu.
Ueshiba refined this martial art and, in 1936, renamed it “Aiki Budo” to distinguish his teachings from Daito-Ryu. By 1942, as Japan embraced the concept of “The Way” (Do), Ueshiba further evolved his art into what is now known as “Aikido.”
Revered for his teachings, O Sensei’s influence is seen in the various Aikido styles still practiced today, developed by his master pupils such as Minoru Mochizuki, Kenji Tomiki, and Gozo Shioda.
Shioda Gozo Soke
Founder of Yoshinkan Aikido
1915-1994
Shioda Gozo Soke, born in Tokyo in 1915, was a top student of Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba and the founder of Yoshinkan Aikido, one of the major styles of Aikido. In 1955,
Shioda developed Yoshinkan Aikido, focusing on practical self-defense techniques and precise, strong movements. His style gained popularity both in Japan and internationally, with Shioda training law enforcement agencies, including the Tokyo Riot Police.
Until his death in 1994, Shioda Kancho continued to promote Yoshinkan Aikido, which remains widely practiced today for its effectiveness in real-world self-defense.
Thamby Rajah Sensei
A Pioneer of Martial Arts in South East Asia
1926-2022
Thamby Rajah Sensei, born in Seremban, Malaysia, on December 23, 1926, is revered as the Father of Aikido in Malaysia. He began his martial arts journey studying Jujitsu and later earned his Black Belt in Judo at the Kodokan in Tokyo, becoming the first Malaysian to achieve this honor. While in Japan, he trained under Shioda Gozo Kancho at the Yoshinkan, where he fell in love with Aikido and earned his Shodan rank.
Upon returning to Malaysia, Thamby Sensei introduced Aikido and established a full-time dojo in 1961, which continues to thrive today. His dedication to teaching and promoting Aikido has inspired many students and dojos worldwide. Thamby Rajah Sensei is remembered for his simplicity, devotion, and the lasting legacy he created, influencing generations of martial artists and spreading the values of discipline and respect throughout the community.
To name a few awards he has been given:
- Malaysia Book of Records (2006)
- Oldest practicing Aikido Instructor
- First to receive a 1st Dan in Judo
- First Aikido School
- Ahli Setia Negeri Sembilan (A.N.S) (2007)
- Honorary Doctorate from Asia Pacific Open University (2012)
Inoue Kyoichi Hanshi
Founder of Aikido Shinwakan
Bridging Tradition and Modern Mastery in Aikido
1935-2017
Inoue Kyoichi Hanshi, born on August 24, 1935, in Tokyo, Japan, was a highly respected martial artist celebrated for his mastery of Aikido. Achieving the esteemed rank of 10th Dan, he is recognized as one of the most accomplished Aikido practitioners of his time. Inoue began his martial arts journey at age 15 under Gozo Shioda, the founder of Yoshinkan Aikido, and dedicated 19 years to rigorous training, becoming an instructor at the Yoshinkan Honbu Dojo in 1969.
Inoue Kyoichi Hanshis influence extended beyond Japan when he became the Chief Instructor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department in 1972 and earned the title of Shihan (master instructor) in 1974. His exceptional teaching led him to travel internationally, teaching Aikido in countries like Australia, the United States, and Canada. In 1991, he was awarded the rare rank of 10th Dan, further solidifying his status as a leading authority in Yoshinkan Aikido. His passion for the art and dedication to sharing its principles continue to inspire generations of students and instructors worldwide.
Inoue Aiko Kaicho
Head of Aikido Nisshinkan - Japan
Inoue Aiko Kaicho, 6th Dan, is the head of Aikido Nisshinkan. This organisation, with its headquarters in Japan, was created by Inoue Kyoichi Hanshi to promote the art of Aikido according to his beliefs. Inoue Aiko Kaicho accepted the Aikido Shudokan International’s invitation to become president of the organisation and we value the wealth of knowledge and experience that she brings to Aikido Shudokan International.
