Aikido Institute of San Francisco

Aikido Institute of San Francisco offers Youth Aikido with age-appropriate movement, Aikido fundamentals, teamwork, focus, and safe falling skills. It also offers General Aikido for adults and teens, with all-level classes and advanced training, plus Iaido and Bokken & Jo practice.

Programs

• General Aikido — adults and teens · Partner practice for adults and teens, with all-level classes as well as advanced training.
• Youth Aikido — young people · Age-appropriate movement, Aikido fundamentals, teamwork, focus, and safe falling skills.
• Iaido — Traditional Japanese sword-drawing practice for concentration, awareness, and precise movement.
• Bokken & Jo — Wooden sword and staff practice that develops stance, distance, timing, and alignment.

At a glance

• Ages: 5–18 years old

About the provider

Aikido Institute of San Francisco was founded in 1999 by G. E. Nomura Shihan, the first woman promoted to Shihan in North America and Europe. The program’s mission says it is a place to grow strong, together, and that it builds confidence, focus, and resilience through a martial art rooted in harmony, not competition.

New students should contact us first so we can recommend the most welcoming place to begin. Class times can change for holidays, seminars, and special events. Membership options are available for adults, college students, youth, couples, and families. Experienced visitors are welcome. A flat $20 mat fee applies to eligible classes. Please contact us before advanced Aikido or Iaido classes so the instructor can help coordinate your visit.

What families say

““Our goal is to teach our students to relate to the world with awareness, care, and respect.”” — Meet our instructors

Last updated September 4, 2026.