Introductory Profile

About Hatenkai Aikido

Hatenkai Aikido is a modern school of Aikido founded in Japan with a clear vision: to preserve the soul of Aikido while bringing it into the reality of contemporary martial practice. Its technical foundation lies in standing joint locks, flowing transitions, and the use of strikes such as the Aikido shuto (hand-blade). Unlike some traditional approaches that risk becoming overly abstract, Hatenkai emphasizes both technical refinement and adaptability—the ability to face the unpredictable nature of real conflict.

About Tenkei Fujisaki

The founder, Shihan Tenkei Fujisaki, is known in Japan as the “Advancing Aikido-ka” (Shingeki no Aiki). A three-time champion in full-contact Aikido competition (under strike-allowed rules), he has earned respect as a martial artist who puts philosophy to the test under pressure. Fujisaki’s teaching centers on achieving the State of Mastery (Shōaku no Kyōchi)—a level of attainment that combines technical precision with the ability to adapt dynamically to chaos. His vision is to forge an Aikido that can stand proudly as both a martial art and a living path of self-cultivation.

The Soul of the Art, The Chaos of the Fight: The Path of Hatenkai Aikido — A Balance Between Refinement and Reality — By Tenkei Fujisaki Technical refinement.

This is the most fundamental and profound quest in Aikido, its unwavering core value. To elevate the precision of a technique to its absolute limit, to strip away all that is superfluous, and to embody movement that is one with universal principle (Ri).

This relentless pursuit is the very soul of Aikido as a martial art. At Hatenkai, we place the utmost importance on perfecting each individual technique, dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to this discipline. However, when this refinement becomes too complete within its own closed system, it risks losing its effectiveness against different technical frameworks, raw physical power, or the unpredictable chaos of a real confrontation. This is what some might call the "Galapagos effect" of technique—a specialization so extreme that it becomes fragile outside its native environment. In the arena of actual combat, what is required is not only the perfection of a single form, but also a certain "breadth," a diversity of response, and the adaptability to face the unexpected.

A highly polished blade is a thing of beauty, yet there are times when it may be thwarted by a crude, heavy axe. The reality that a master of sublime skill can be challenged by an opponent of raw, untamed power speaks to this truth. Hatenkai Aikido is built upon clear philosophical and technical pillars: a focus on standing joint locks, an emphasis on the seamless connection and flow of techniques, a preference for safe and complete control over knockouts, and the strategic use of the Aikido shuto (hand-blade) as a striking weapon. These pillars define our school's identity and integrity. At the same time, our practitioners are a diverse assembly of individuals. Some excel at powerful throws, others at sharp, precise strikes.

As long as this diversity does not deviate from the core principles of Hatenkai, it is not only tolerated but encouraged. It is a vital element in cultivating our "adaptive capacity"—the very quality that allows us to respond flexibly to the chaotic and unrefined nature of a real fight. Yet, let it be understood: to be a member of Hatenkai is to carry a responsibility. It requires a profound understanding of and a sincere desire to master our core tenets—shoaku (掌握), the state of true command over the encounter, and the flowing transitions of our standing joint locks. It is upon this shared foundation that each individual's unique strengths can be honed into a formidable adaptive force. To preserve technical integrity while embracing a reality-tested flexibility. This is the path of Hatenkai Aikido, envisioned by its founder and carried on by its followers. It is the razor's edge we walk together. We believe that by continuing to seek this delicate balance—cherishing the core of technical refinement while integrating the diversity that fuels our adaptive strength—we will forge the future of Hatenkai Aikido. The Ten Precepts of Hatenkai Aikido

I. Forge the Technique. The path of Aikido is the pursuit of flawless precision.

II. Embody the Principle. Conquer not with strength, but with movement born of universal law.

III. Seize the Flow. Technique is born from the current; in the current, it finds life.

IV. Await the Myriad Changes. In daily practice, cultivate the mind that is ready for anything.

V. Command the Chaos. Possess the flexibility not only to create beauty, but to master violence.

VI. Unleash the Self. With confidence and creativity, let your unique talents flourish.

VII. Know the Core. Diversity must never stray from the unshakeable axis of our principles.

VIII. Inherit the Soul. Master the art of control and flow, the legacy of our founder.

IX. Transcend Together. In crossing hands with your brothers and sisters, polish your spirit as you polish your art.

X. Live in the Technique. Take pride in the Hatenkai path, and let the technique be your life's companion.