Aikido New England Aikikai

Specialties

Classes in the Japanese martial art of Aikido 7 days a week for adults and children takes place in a friendly atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect. The New England Aikikai dojo is steeped in the rich tradition of Japanese culture as was brought to the Boston area by Mitsunari Kanai Shihan in 1966. The physical conditioning benefits of Aikido training are increased stamina, flexibility, balance, coordination, muscle development, as well as mental conditioning: self confidence, concentration, alertness, intuitiveness, and concern for others. Men, women, and children of all ages can practice Aikido. Feel free to stop by during class hours to observe.

History

Established in 1966.

Mitsunari Kanai Shihan, founder of New England Aikikai, was one of the last uchi-​deshi or live-​in apprentices of Professor Morihei Ueshiba, a Sacred National Treasure of Japan, with whom he studied intensively for over 10 years. An 8^th degree black belt in Aikido and master of other martial arts including sword and staff, Kanai Sensei was a technical director of the United States Aikido Federation. He was assigned to New England Aikikai in 1966 by Hombu Dojo, Aikido World Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan. He passed away on March 28, 2004.

Meet the Business Owner

Sharon K.

Business Owner

Sharon Kanai began training intensively at New England Aikikai in 1980 and for 25 years had been a student of Mitsunari Kanai Shihan until his passing in 2004. They were also married with two children.

Ms. Kanai, now owner and Director of New England Aikikai, is ranked 5^th dan Shidoin, a certified Instructor under the United States Aikido Federation.