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About Us

The roots of Shinjinkai go back to the early 1980's, when the original Shinjinkan dojo (our headquarters) was established by the famous Aikido and Zen master, Tenzan (Fumio) Toyoda Sensei. In 1991, Toyoda Sensei appointed his principal student Meido Moore Sensei as the chief instructor. Moore Sensei founded Shinjinkai as a community in 2002, and today he continues to direct it along with a cadre of teachers and senior students.

Modern World. Ancient Path.

Shinjinkai is a community united by a common purpose: intensive study of Japanese warrior arts. You'll find our culture to be one of camaraderie, hard work, and the joy of practice. Our association of dojos is known worldwide for traditional, rigorous training. Today, society judges individuals by what they do or own. In the dojo, however, our only interest is what you use your life to become. This is the spirit of shugyo: deep mind-body training to live fully and benefit others. New members are welcome at all of our locations. Read within to learn about our group classes and how to get started. We also offer private instruction, and conduct special training events worldwide.

Chicago Area Classes

AIKIDO

YOUTH AIKIDO

IAIDO

Aikido (合気道) is a powerful, graceful art founded early in the 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba. Its decisive techniques include throws, joint locks, strikes and immobilizations, practiced within

a context in which weapons (knife, sword, staff and others) are assumed to be present. Aikido philosophy is to avoid harming others whenever possible.

For more information or to book a class please click here.

SHINBUKAN KURODA RYUGI

The Shinbukan Kuroda Dojo
was founded by Yahei Masayoshi Kuroda in 1848 to transmit four styles of martial arts inherited

by the Kuroda family.

Together, these comprise

the Shinbukan Kuroda Ryu-gi,

or style, today led by Headmaster Tetsuzan Kuroda Sensei.

Shinjinkai hosts one of only four study groups outside

of Japan authorized by

Kuroda Sensei.

For more information or to book a class please click here.

Shinjinkai’s Youth Aikido program is ideal for children
6-15 years of age. Classes are
energetic, disciplined, and focused on three core principles: focus, compassion, and effort. Through cooperative games, exercises, and basic Aikido techniques, children learn to develop not just their bodies but also their minds.

For more information or to book a class please click here.

TAIJUTSU

Literally meaning "skill with the body," Taijutsu is no less than a modern resurgence of old-school thought, akin to Bushi no michi - "the warrior path" - self-reliance that studies a range of tactics and strategies from nine ancient lineages; aimed at protecting,
and defending, the lives of self and others. This includes training in: Taihenjutsu (tumbling and breaking falls), Taisabaki (tactical positioning), Dakentaijutsu (striking), Jutaijutsu (grappling), Buki (weapons and tools), and Junan Taiso (conditioning and health).

For more information or to book a class please click here.

Meishi-ha Mugai Ryu Iaihyodo

is a koryu (feudal era) school
of swordsmanship founded in 1693. Emphasis in Mugai Ryu

is placed on practical,

close-quarters techniques

of drawing and cutting against single or multiple opponents.

For more information or to book a class please click here.