ABOUT US
AMERICAN BUTOKUKAN
American Butokukan translates as the American “Institute of Martial Virtue;” a modern, comprehensive, integrated program of instruction in traditional East-Asian martial arts. The training is both mental and physical. Mental aspects of training involve the development of self-discipline, self-confidence, tolerance, and understanding. Physical training encompasses aikido, karate, and related weapons.
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Aikido is the Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba. After the Founder's passing in 1969, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba was inaugurated as the second Aikido Doshu (Leader of the Way). At present, Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of the Founder, has succeeded his father as Aikido Doshu.
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​American Butokukan is a member of the Aikido Shimbokukai. Aikido Shimbokukai is an Officially Recognized Organization by the Aikido World Headquarters (Hombu Dojo) and the Aikikai Foundation in Tokyo, Japan. We value our relationship with Aikido World Headquarters (Hombu Dojo) and the Aikikai Foundation, and strive to support them as best as possible, through training and other activities. Our members are committed to the study and training of the teachings of Ueshiba Morihei, the Founder of Aikido, as well as those of Ueshiba Kisshomaru Nidai Doshu, Ueshiba Moriteru Gendai Doshu, and Ueshiba Mitsuteru Hombu Dojo Cho.
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BACKGROUND
The History of the American Butokukan System.
Our eclectic style results from the diverse martial backgrounds of its founder and senior instructors. The Butokukan's more than 50-year history begins with its founder Todd D. Jones, who, in 1971, began his martial arts training under James Rene Diaz in Miami Beach, Florida. James Diaz, who rose to the rank of 4th Dan in MooDukKwan TaeKwonDo before his early death in 1983, was a senior student of Dr. Richard Chun, the first to teach TaeKwonDo in the USA.
Jones Sensei began aikido, iaido, and kendo training shortly thereafter, achieving advanced dan ranks in each. This experience heavily influences his aikido practice.
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THE MISSION
Our mission is to help people improve themselves for the betterment of all.
We consider ourselves an inclusive system, and welcome experienced martial artists from all styles and backgrounds who wish to learn from us and share their knowledge. Of course, we focus most of our efforts on newcomers to the martial arts. Any of our branch schools are always open to visitors seeking to learn more about us.