Experience Authentic Aikido Training in Japan with Lia Suzuki Sensei

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Train in Japan

Participants will train at dojos in the Kamakura and Yokohama area, including Takeda Dojo in Higashi-Totsuka, with opportunities to train with Takeda Shihan and other instructors.

Aikido in Cultural Context

In addition to dojo training, the trip includes time in Kamakura and Yokohama, and participation in the May 10 embukai and special class with Ueshiba Mitsuteru Dojo-Cho at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

Small Group Experience

This trip is limited to eight practitioners in order to keep the experience focused, flexible, and supportive.

Itinerary

The 2026 Japan training trip will take place May 8–18.

* Schedule is subject to change.

** Hakone side trip requires additional fee.

 

Tentative Itinerary

The exact schedule may shift depending on dojo availability, but the trip will include training and cultural experiences in the Kamakura and Yokohama area.

May 8–9

Arrival in Japan and group orientation.

May 10

All-Day Training and Embukai
Training and demonstration at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine with Ueshiba Mitsuteru Aikido Honbu Dojo-cho, Takeda Shihan, and other instructors.
Followed by a celebratory gathering.

Throughout the Trip

Participants will train at:

Takeda Dojo in Higashi-Totsuka
with Takeda Shihan, Daiyu Sensei, Ishii Sensei, and other instructors.

Additional training opportunities may include other AKI-affiliated dojos in the Kamakura / Yokohama area.

Cultural Visits

Time will also be set aside for visiting important locations in the region, including:

  • Kamakura temples and shrines
  • Yokohama shopping

Optional Side Trip

An optional one-day trip to Hakone hot springs may be organized.

Schedule subject to change depending on dojo availability.

Accommodation Recommendations

Participants are welcome to stay at either of the following locations or make their own arrangements. Both locations are convenient for access to the dojos we will be visiting.

Budget-friendly:
Hotel Fresa Inn Yokohama-Totsuka
(Lia Suzuki Sensei will be staying here during the first part of the trip.)

Higher level:
Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura
(Lia Suzuki Sensei will be staying here following the Hakone excursion.)

Additional Costs

Participants should plan for the following expenses:

• International airfare
• Hotel accommodations
• Local transportation
• Meals
• Dojo training fees (if applicable)

An optional Hakone hot springs excursion will require an additional fee.