Aikido Insights
Conversations With Yamashima Sensei
This interview series explores the martial journey and insights of Yamashima Takeshi Sensei, 8th Dan Aikikai. Over five articles, we will delve into his early years, teachings, reflections on Aikido philosophy, and his connection with Vietnam. This first part provides an overview of his background and lifelong dedication to Aikido.
Special Feature Report
Location: Pandanus Resort, Phan Thiet City, Vietnam
Date: 3rd December 2024
Conducted by: Nhien Le | Yuko Shinzen Dojo
Witnessed by:
- Aigo Ken’ichiro – Senior Advisor, Member of the Advisory Council of Yuko Shinzen Dojo.
- Tsuyoshi Sakai – Advisor, Member of the Advisory Council of Yuko Shinzen Dojo.
- Nobuyuki Osaki and Masahiro Endoh – Members of Chiyoda-ku Aikikai.
- Long Pham – Senior Instructor and other members of Yuko Shinzen Dojo.
Introduction
The interview is organized into five parts:
Part 1 - Yamashima Sensei’s Aikido Journey
This section explores Yamashima Sensei’s beginnings in Aikido, his early influences, and the founding of the Chiyoda Aikido Club. It reflects on his training under Hombu Dojo instructors — including Arikawa Sensei, Yamada Sensei, Saotome Sensei, Osawa Sensei, and Masuda Sensei — his early encounters with Yamaguchi Sensei’s teachings, and his deep respect for the legacy of Ueshiba Kisshomaru Sensei.
Part 2 - Practicing with Yamaguchi Sensei
In this part, Yamashima Sensei shares what it was like to train under Yamaguchi Sensei—his unique approach, the learning process through feeling rather than instruction, and how students struggled and adapted to his style.
Part 3 - O Sensei’s Power and Influence
This section delves into Yamashima Sensei’s thoughts on O Sensei’s mysterious power, how it influenced Yamaguchi Sensei, and the lasting impression it left on those around them.
Part 4 - Swordwork, Body Arts, and Aikido Philosophy
Here, Yamashima Sensei discusses the role of Kenjutsu, the shared principles between sword and body arts, the importance of center and koshi, and what long-term practitioners should focus on to continue evolving.
Part 5 - Timeless Lessons from the Interview
This final part summarizes the key takeaways from the interview and reflects on Yamashima Sensei’s enduring passion, offering timeless inspiration for Aikido practitioners. Among the most memorable impressions from the conversation was Yamashima Sensei’s constant smile and genuine joy when speaking about Aikido. His attitude reminds us of O Sensei’s guidance to “practice with your own joy,” a spirit that can guide us through every stage of training.
Each section is presented in a Q&A format. We invite you to explore the full interview below.
- Read Part 2 – Practicing with Yamaguchi Sensei (Coming Soon)
