About Us

Sawada Toshiharu shihan, 7th dan, began his Aikido training in 1965 after entering university.  He trained under the guidance of Kazuo Chiba shihan, Norihiko Ichihashi shihan and Norihiko Watanabe shihan.  Aikido Kimori Dojo was established on the 20th of January 2002 in Nagoya Japan.

Hiroshi Matsuoka sensei, 5th dan, began training Aikido in 1975 in Japan.  Matsuoka sensei moved to America in 1987.  He began his association and study with Sawada shihan in 2002, opening a branch dojo of Kimori Dojo in the bay area.

Neil Hamilton sensei, 4th dan, began training in martial arts in 1979.  He has trained in a variety of martial arts.  He began his association and study with Kimori Dojo in 2002.

Tony Lam sensei, 3rd dan.  He was introduced to Aikido in the late 1990's at San Jose State University. Lam sensei began his association and study with Kimori Dojo in 2003.

Eric "Rick" A. Roberts sensei, 3rd dan.  Rick began his training in Aikido in 2000, and began his association with Kimori Dojo in 2002.  Rick also holds the rank of 4th dan, yondan, in Shotokan Karate through Pacific Coast Karate-Do.

Eric Norige sensei, 2nd dan.  Eric started training Aikido in 2002 under Freeman Sensei and has trained in a variety of Aikikai styles including Tenshin and Birankai.  He was honored to have recieved his 2nd dan from Sawada Shihan. He most Enjoys being upside down (midflight) and sharing this joy with others.