The word "yanagi" means 'willow' in Japanese. The willow is a common icon in Japanese culture; from stories and legends to paintings and poetry. We have adopted the name "Yanagi Aikido Dojo" as a constant reminder of the aim of our training.

Grounded
The willow tree is firmly rooted to the earth. It is calm, grounded, and steadfast.

Harmonious
The willlow tree is flexible. In severe weather some harder woods may splinter or break, but the willow sways gracefully with its environment, moving in accord with the elements.

Sheltering
The arms of the willow stretch wide offering reprieve from the hot sun and providing a place to rejuvenate and meditate.

Graceful
The willow tree is beautiful despite being large, sturdy and steadfast. It is able to be grounded and harmonious without giving up any of it's inherent beauty.

The Yanagi Aikido Dojo was founded to offer all persons a place to pursue the refinement of their character through the martial discipline of Aikido. Beyond mere self-defense, students of the Yanagi Aikido Dojo train together to achieve the most important victory of all - victory over one's self.

Click here to see the dojo in a 360º panoramic