Berkeley Aikikai

Chief Instructor: Marianne Shibata, 7th dan, Shihan

Visitor Policy: Visitors are always welcome to observe. Those who have active affiliation with Hombu Dojo are welcome to train as visitors. Yudansha should bring their Aikikai yudansha book. Kyu grades should bring some document from their current Dojo that shows their affiliation, or a letter from their instructor.

Anyone is welcome to become a member. Call or send email for information.

Taking care, planning ahead

In accord with shelter-at-home guidelines, classes continue suspended until the shelter order is modified.

While we do not have a time-line for opening, here are planned guidelines for when we re-open for classes.

Initially, we will be focused on activities than allow for distancing: weapons, Zazen, and Iaido. We will try to make it possible for people to use their hands as little as possible. For example, when the Dojo opens for the day, we will keep the doors open so members do not have to use their hands to open them.

We will ask that people monitor their temperature. If you have a temperature, or any other symptoms, of course stay home.

Masks should be worn while in the Dojo. Gloves will be allowed if you wish. Keep distance at all times (this is basic maai).  Washing hands before and after practice will continue.

As the dressing rooms have limited space, it will be OK to wear your gi to and from the Dojo. Please wear a jacket or sweatshirt over it when outside the Dojo. For those changing at the Dojo, there should be only 4 people maximum in a dressing room at any time.

Mask and distance guidelines will apply during class. Wear masks; gloves are allowed. We will not line up for class, but space ourselves out across the mats.

If you can transport your weapons to and from class, that will be best.

Please do not talk unless you are wearing a mask.

Some additional specific changes related to using the Dojo space will posted in the Dojo.

We believe we will be able to open for classes when the city/county move into stage 3 of the state ‘roadmap’. We will post updates here.

While the Dojo is closed, we can be reached at the email address on this page, and by regular surface mail.

UnEnKai Summer Seminar 

Given the current situation, UnEnKai Summer Seminar, scheduled for June, will not take place.