When we walked up to the third floor where the dojo is located, the cheerful voices of children filled the air. Mr. I was teaching with an even warmer smile than usual, guiding the kids with gentle care.

Since it was our first visit, there weren’t many places to observe from, so we quietly took a seat at the very back of the dojo, where the bags were placed.I was truly glad we arrived on time—coming too early might have disrupted the class.

The dojo has a dome-shaped ceiling and wooden interior throughout, giving it a warm, embracing atmosphere. I fell in love with it immediately.

In New Zealand’s children’s classes, it’s not unusual to see kids running around or doing their own thing instead of listening to the instructor. But here, the children enjoyed themselves freely while still paying close attention to Mr. I’s instructions.

Although the 10-Day Winter Training Program has ended at Hombu Dojo, the chilly days continue.

We are pleased to share the latest updates on seminars led by Hombu Dojo Shihan, covering the newly added events from February to April, as well as those scheduled for May.

■ February 28 – March 1

2025 Tokyo (Adachi Ward) Community Aikido Instructor Training Seminar

Location: Tokyo Budokan

Instructors: Shoji Seki Shihan, Hayato Arima Instructor, Etsuko Kinoshita Sensei, Yuichi Isaka Sensei

Organizer: Tokyo Aikido Federation

https://aikidotravel.com/seminar/2129/7

This annual training seminar, hosted by the Tokyo Aikido Federation, is designed for instructors ranked shodan and above.

Participants have the opportunity not only to train but also to deepen their understanding of essential teaching principles.

I managed to board the Shinkansen bound for Shin-Kobe without any trouble, more and more passengers got on at each stop, and before long every row in the car was completely full. There was no denying that we were right in the middle of a long holiday weekend.

I enjoyed a light lunch I had brought with me while watching the scenery pass by outside the window.

Whenever Mount Fuji comes into view, my spirits naturally lift. Its dignified presence always fills me with a quiet sense of pride.

We arrived at Shin-Kobe Station around 3:30 p.m., and from there I planned to head to Shinkaichi Station, the closest stop to my hotel.

Happy New Year 2026.

With training at Hombu Dojo resuming on January 6, I can truly feel the beginning of a fresh new year.

Following the previous update, I am pleased to share information on the upcoming seminars led by Hombu Dojo instructors, scheduled for March and April.

〇 March 13–15 — Aikido Seminar

Location: Barcelona, Spain