Aikijutsu is, without a doubt, the most fascinating of the martial arts. Incredibly beautiful, it is also almost magical. Watch a well-executed technique and it seems nearly effortless—That is because it is nearly effortless.
This art’s effectiveness does not rely upon speed or power. Instead, sophisticated technique and perfect timing unite with a dynamic spiritual intensity, immediately unbalancing and dominating an opponent. Aikijutsu is arguably the most (subtly) aggressive of all martial arts.
Is it difficult to learn? Of course it is, and that is part of its fascination. Come to the dōjō for the next twenty years and you will learn something new and wonderful every week (the most exciting of which you will discover for yourself). In simple terms, the study of aikijutsu means that you should never, ever, find yourself bored—for the rest of your life.
Kenjutsu, the art of swordsmanship, is the most highly respected of all Japanese martial arts. Though other weapon systems preceded the sword in the military history of Japan, none compare in depth and complexity with kenjutsu. Generations of swordsmen devoted their entire lives to the study of every conceivable variation in the use of the weapon. Not satisfied with mere variations in technique, they explored and developed the strategic and philosophical aspects of swordsmanship—penetrating to the spiritual and physical core of conflict itself.
You will note that students frequently practice with wooden swords. This is not for safety, but to ensure that a valuable antique blade is not damaged.
Due to the high initial costs (yes, you do need a real sword and that alone will cost at least several hundred dollars for the most basic, and thousands for something truly suitable for the art), this art is not for everyone.
