Martial Arts in Calgary
Aikido & Kobudō

Calgary Rakushinkan offers traditional Japanese martial arts training for adults, teens, and kids.
Whether you are new to martial arts or have experience in karate, judo, or other systems, our training develops balance, coordination, awareness, practical body movement, and real martial skills.

With classes in Mount Pleasant and Winston Heights, we serve students in surrounding communities and across North Calgary. Our program combines modern Aikidō with classical Japanese weapon traditions and older jujutsu, giving students a rare opportunity to study both empty-hand and sword-based martial principles together in one dojo. This makes our dojo a unique option for those searching for martial arts in Calgary that go beyond sport-based training.

Traditional Martial Arts in North Calgary

Calgary Rakushinkan is a North Calgary martial arts dojo where we teach authentic Aikido and classical Japanese traditions, including sword arts, since 2011.

We offer training for adults and a dedicated Kids Aikidō program, introducing young practitioners to budō etiquette, posture, movement, and character development in a respectful and encouraging environment.

We continue the teachings of Sensei Ishikawa Tomohiro and the Rakushinkan in Japan, preserving methods passed down through generations.

Adult and teen training includes Aikidō, Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, and Japanese sword arts such as Kenjutsu and Iaijutsu, along with related weapon traditions — offering students both practical skills and a direct connection to authentic Japanese martial heritage.

Why Choose Our Martial Arts School in Calgary?

Calgary Rakushinkan is one of the few places in Canada to study both modern Aikidō and classical kobudō — including kenjutsu (sword arts) and iaijutsu. We welcome children and adults to explore authentic Japanese martial traditions that go beyond sport or self-defense. Training connects you to the roots of Aikidō and the heritage of the samurai, offering a path of discovery and growth that is rare in Calgary.

At Calgary Rakushinkan, we offer more than what most people imagine when they think of karate classes in Calgary. If you’re curious about alternatives that emphasize tradition, you can learn more about alternatives to karate in Calgary.

Martial Arts We Teach

At Calgary Rakushinkan we practice both modern and classical Japanese martial arts. Our training includes Aikidō, the art of blending with an opponent’s force; Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, the classical system at the root of Aikidō; kenjutsu, the traditional study of Japanese sword fighting; and iaijutsu, the art of drawing the sword. Together, these arts form a rare integrated curriculum that connects students with Japan’s martial heritage while offering a living practice for today.

Kids Aikido in North Calgary

We believe martial arts training should build more than technique.
Our Kids Aikidō program focuses on posture, balance, awareness, and respect — introducing young students to the foundations of Japanese budō in a positive and structured environment.

Children learn rolling and falling safely (ukemi), coordination, focus, and cooperation — skills that support confidence on and off the mats.

→ Learn more out our Kids Martial Arts classes

What Martial Art is Best for Kids?

Not all martial arts are the same.
Some emphasize competition and striking; our approach develops balance, calm focus, and responsibility through classical budō principles.

Read: What is the best martial art for kids? →

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The Essence of Budo - Our Philosophy

At Rakushinkan, budō is studied as a living tradition — a way to cultivate harmony through the body, not merely to learn techniques. Guided by onko chishin — “to seek the old and understand the new” — our Aikidō and classical weapon arts preserve the spirit of Japan’s old schools while adapting practice for modern students. Through breath, posture, and awareness, training becomes a study of balance in both body and mind.

[Read more about our philosophy →]