Aikido was founded in the early 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), known as O-Sensei. Trained in traditional martial arts such as Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, swordsmanship, and spear fighting.

O-Sensei Morihei Ueshiba envisioned a martial art devoted to harmony, compassion, and self-improvement rather than domination.

After World War II, his teachings became known as Aikido, “The way of harmony”

The headquarters dojo, Aikikai Hombu Dojo, was established in Tokyo and remains the center of the art today.

In 1969, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba (1921–1999) became the second Dōshu, the hereditary leader of the art.

He modernized training methods and promoted Aikido internationally.

His leadership helped the art gain worldwide recognition.

In 1999  Kisshomaru's son Moriteru Ueshiba (born 1951) became the third Dōshu.

He carries on  his family’s legacy through the Aikikai Foundation, which oversees dojos across the globe.

The History of Aikido and of the Ueshiba Family

The tradition is now being prepared to pass to Mitsuteru Ueshiba, the future fourth Dōshu, ensuring that Aikido’s spirit of harmony endures for generations to come.

The "Aikido Dojo Association" is fully recognized by Aikikai Hombu Dojo, Tokyo