Important Announcement:
From August 2025 through the end of September 2026, Chiseikan Dojo will temporarily suspend the acceptance of new trial participants and prospective students because our instructors will be overseas during this period.
Chiseikan Aikido Dojo
Think Together, Support Each Other
Grow together.
Chiseikan is an Aikido dojo in Kyoto. Our practice is built upon a foundation of Aikido and integrates techniques and forms from other Japanese martial arts and teaches the underlying philosophy of the Japanese martial arts.
What makes Chiseikan unique?
Learn many martial arts
Nenshin Ryu Budo is built upon a foundation of Aikido and integrates techniques and forms from many different martial arts. From these integrated practices, we also teach a way of thinking based upon Budo philosophy.
Classes limited to 10 people
Because each class is limited to 10 students we provide careful and personalized guidance to each student. Each student can deeply understand their own strengths and challenges, and will receive personalized practice advice through a dedicated smartphone app.
Lifetime Enjoyment
There are no competitive tournaments in Aikido, so you never have to worry about winning or losing . Instead, the purpose of our practices is to improve your own capabilities, so you can enjoy learning at your own pace. Also, since we adjust techniques according to the opponent, it is possible for different body types, genders and ages to practice together. Because of this, you can continue your practice throughout your entire lifetime.
Naturally acquire
language and culture skills
You can naturally acquire Japanese (and English) communication skills and intercultural understanding as we practice in both English and Japanese and our classes enable you to practice with people across a wide range of ages (from elementary school to adults) and nationalities.
MESSAGE
Do you know what real Budo is?
Budo is not just about learning techniques and becoming stronger.
The purpose of Budo is to learn the teachings of Budo through various techniques and to be able to use them for one's own growth and the prosperity of society as a whole.
At Chiseikan, in addition to Budo (martial arts) techniques, you will also learn the five elements of Yamato Kokoro of Budo philosophy.
Budo is a life-long learning experience.
At Chiseikan, under the guidance of our supportive teachers, you will enjoy learning Budo with other
students from different occupations, ages, genders, and nationalities under the guidance of supportive teachers. Within this international environment in the heart of Kyoto, we've confident that your view of Japan and the world will continue to expand and grow.
Blog
Yoshie SugaI
Shihan (Master Teacher)
Born in 1969. Yoshie Sugai is the main teacher (Shihan) of Chiseikan and an 8th degree black belt (Shihan-dai) in Nenshinryu Budo. She has been studying Aikido in Japan and abroad since 1996. Four years after taking a break from practice (for giving birth and childcare for her two sons), she met the Kinefuchi Shihan in 2003 and established the Aikido Club at the International University of Minami Uonuma City. Yoshie-sensei practiced for 10 years in all four dojos where Kinefuchi-sensei taught, and helped create the style of Iyonumaryu Aikido. In 2013, she opened the Iyonumaryu Aikido Kyoto Dojo. In addition to managing two dojos, Yoshie-sensei has created unique workshops and training programs for top executives at large companies that teach how to apply martial arts philosophy to business strategy and everyday life.
In the fall of 2020, Iyonuma Ryu Aikido was renamed Nenshinryu Budo, and in the spring of 2021, the Chiseikan dojo was established in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City.
Philosophy
To Increase "Resilience"
Today both children and adults feel as if they are constantly being chased by something and feel stressed from living in the midst of constant change. These changes include adversities, difficulties and also some things that are fun. In these difficult times, enhancing our "Resilience" will help us thrive in any situation no matter how difficult or challenging.
At Chiseikan, our aim is to train our bodies and minds to become stronger and more flexible in a friendly and collaborative environment.
How to Join our Dojo
STEP 2
After your visit or trial, we will send you a link to the Dojo Class Management System via LINE or e-mail if you decide to join. You will be asked to enter your information and set up a payment type (credit/debit card) through the system. At that time, you will be asked to select which day(s) of the week you will attend practices.
STEP 3
This system allows you to check and update the class calendar regarding your absences, special events, etc., and to communicate with your teacher regarding attendance, transfer requests, and other matters.
STEP 4
Join your first practice and have fun learning Nenshinryu Budo!
Contact Us
Please use this form to ask any questions you have about our dojo or practice.
Please note that practicing at Chiseikan Dojo is only available for those who can practice a minimum of 8 times in our beginner classes during their stay in Kyoto, or are longer-term residents.
