ABOUT AIKIDO KAASHIKOI

OUR DOJO

Aikido Kaashikoi was founded in 2016 by Chye Lim sensei. Kaashikoi can be translated as 'wise' and we aim to embody this idea in our practice, training thoughfully with each other. We teach traditional Aikido using teaching methods that are easy to understand for students of all ages and abilities. Our dojo is located in the Bedminster Methodist Church in Bedminster, Bristol. We pride ourselves on having a safe, welcoming environment with friendly students.

We are affiliated to Sansuikai International and all our Dan grades are issued directly from the Aikikai Hombu dojo - the main dojo of Aikido's governing body in Japan.

JOINING

Becoming part of Aikido Kaashikoi is simple - just get in touch and arrange to come and try out a class. Your first session is free with no comittment.

If you decide you would like to join, mat fees are £10 per class, payable as a monthly subscription.

Get started

OUR INSTRUCTORS AND LINEAGE

Chye Lim Sensei is the chief instructor and Dojo Cho of Aikido Kaashikoi. Chye Sensei has a clear lineage from which Aikido Kaashikoi members can benefit. We are fortunate to receive instruction and guidance from highly experienced Aikido masters thanks to our affiliation to Aikido Sansuikai International.

CHYE LIM SENSEI

4TH DAN AIKIKAI

DOJO CHO & CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

Chye Lim sensei has been practicing Aikido for over 20 years and continues to learn from some of the Aikido world's best teachers. He has trained in Japan at Kobayashi dojos where he entered their uchi deshi program. Here he received his 1st and 2nd Dan grades under Yasuo Kobayashi Shihan.

In 2016, Chye sensei joined Sansuikai International, founded by Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan. He received his 3rd and 4th Dan grades and was awarded the title of Fukushidoin from Yamada Shihan. He also holds an MA in martial arts and is a qualified BAB level 1 coach.

Chye sensei travels extensively, training at international seminars and teaching at our affiliated dojos.

YOSHIMITSU YAMADA SHIHAN

8TH DAN AIKIKAI

FOUNDER OF SANSUIKAI INTERNATIONAL

In memoriam, Feb 17th 1938 - Jan 15th 2023

Born in Tokyo, Yamada’s father, Ichiro, was a professor, and his mother, Michio, cared for the home. During World War II, the family fled to Chinju, Korea, remaining there until the war’s end.

His cousin, Tadashi Abe, began practising Aikido in 1942. At seven, Yoshimitsu met Aikido’s founder, O-Sensei, during a demonstration at Abe’s home — an encounter that left a lasting impression.

In 1955, at 18 and with no martial arts experience, Yamada joined the Hombu Dojo as an uchi-deshi (live-in student), training under O-Sensei and masters Kisshomaru Ueshiba, Koichi Tohei, and Kisaburo Osawa.

Invited to demonstrate Aikido at the 1964 World’s Fair, he moved to New York City, becoming chief instructor of the New York Aikikai and introducing Aikido to the U.S. East Coast. By 1972, he was a global ambassador, known for his dynamic, joyful teaching that inspired thousands worldwide.

Until his passing on January 15, 2023, Yamada Sensei upheld the spirit of Aikido, emphasizing strong fundamentals, positivity, and continuous growth. His legacy endures deeply within the Aikido community.

Portrait of Yoshimitsu Yamada, founder of Sansuikai international

ABOUT SANSUIKAI INTERNATIONAL

Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan founded Sansuikai International to help and support other organisations or any individual Aikido school which needs instruction, help or advice concerning their Aikido activity.

All the members of Sansuikai are under the Aikikai Hombu through Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan and are affiliated with USAF (United States Aikido Federation).