Our Story.

Founded in 2002 by Haruo Matsuoka and Josh Gold, Ikazuchi Dojo is dedicated to promoting personal transformation through the art of aikido. We seek to preserve the heritage, traditions, and spirit of the art and we use every resource available to innovate, refine, and elevate what it means to be a martial arts dojo in the 21st century. We never stop questioning our assumptions and methods; we embrace how much we have to learn and grow. 

We are relentlessly committed to quality and innovation in our training programs, offering meaningful cultural experiences, and building a strong and supportive community. Our members range in age from 13-80, speak 20 different languages, draw from a variety of professional backgrounds, and include relative newcomers and decades-long practitioners. A truly diverse membership, we are united in our shared desire to cultivate a community that is open and welcoming to anyone who seeks a personal journey of growth and transformation through practice of the martial arts. 

In addition to our aikido programs, we design and operate special events and custom training programs for leading organizations like Blizzard Entertainment and The Thales Group.

We are the home of Aikido Journal, the world’s leading aikido media publication. Founded in 1974 by Stanley Pranin, the journal’s online community reaches enthusiasts across 50 countries, transcending differences in geography, culture, political affiliation, and technical style.

Ikazuchi Dojo is a member of the Aikido Doshinokai Association, affiliated with the Aikikai Foundation in Tokyo, Japan.

-Stanley Pranin, founder of Aikido Journal, thought Ikazuchi Dojo was a special place.

Josh Gold, Haruo Matsuoka, and Setsuko Okumura (Program Director)

Josh Gold, Haruo Matsuoka, and Setsuko Okumura (Program Director)

 
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Our Team

Learn more about our instructors and staff.

 
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Budo Accelerator

Ikazuchi Dojo is a proud partner of Budo Accelerator, an educational nonprofit with a mission to elevate our youth and forge a new generation of leaders through the art of aikido.

 
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Aikido Journal

Ikazuchi Dojo is the home of Aikido Journal. With a 46 year history, the journal is one of the world’s leading authorities and media publications on the art of aikido.

 

Say Hello!

Ask us anything. Schedule a 10-min Zoom or phone call to learn more about aikido or Ikazuchi Dojo.