Aikido in Berkeley since 1989
Visitor Policy: Visitors are always welcome to observe. However, because of safety concerns due to COVID-19, we may not be able to allow drop-in observers. Please call in advance.
We hope to continue to welcome those who have active affiliation with Hombu Dojo to train as visitors. However, this policy is still under review, so please call or email for information.
Anyone is welcome to become a member. Call or send email for information.
Getting ready, planning ahead
In accord with shelter-at-home guidelines, adult classes continue suspended until the shelter order is modified.
Since Berkeley has allowed summer camps, daycare, and after-school programs to open, we plan to re-start Kids classes on Saturday, June 27.
We believe we will be able to open for adult classes when the city/county move into stage 3 of the state ‘roadmap’. We will post updates here.
We are trying to maintain email contact with members as we plan. If you are a member and have not been receiving emails, please send us an email address so we can keep you informed directly.
Below are some preliminary guidelines for when we open for classes. We will be adding a page to the web-site with more complete guidelines: please watch for an added link above.
First: anyone entering the Dojo (member or visitor) will be asked screening questions. We will be checking temperatures. We plan to screen everyone before they come in the door, so please be prepared and patient.
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.
There will initially be changes to the schedule:
Noon classes Monday, Wednesday 12:00 Noon-1:00 PM
Morning classes Tuesday, Thursday 6:30-7:30 AM
Evening classes Monday through Friday 6:00-7:00 PM
Saturday morning 10:15-11:15 AM
Kids classes remain the same as before the shelter:
Tuesday 4:15-5:15 PM Saturday 9:00-10:00 AM
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.