Master Biographies
Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba - Second Aikido Doshu
Kisshomaru Ueshiba was born on June 27, 1921 in Ayabe, Kyoto Prefecture, as the third son of the Founder of Aikido - Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei). He died on January 4, 1999 in Tokyo.
Legacy and Mission
After his father's death in 1969, Kisshomaru Ueshiba assumed the role of Doshu (Master of the Way) - the highest authority in the world of Aikido. His life mission was to systematize and spread Aikido throughout the world.
Thanks to his tireless efforts, Aikido transformed from an esoteric martial art practiced by a handful of chosen students into a discipline accessible to all, practiced today by millions of people around the world.
Contribution to Aikido Development
Kisshomaru Ueshiba:
- Expanded the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo to become the world headquarters of Aikido
- Created a unified teaching system accessible to all practitioners
- Wrote numerous books about Aikido, including fundamental works on technique and philosophy
- Developed an international network of Aikido federations on all continents
- Trained generations of instructors who spread Aikido throughout the world
Books and Publications
Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba is the author of many important publications, including:
- "Aikido" (1957) - the first comprehensive book about Aikido
- "The Spirit of Aikido" (1984)
- "Aikido: The Way of Harmony" (1985)
- "The Art of Aikido" (2004, published posthumously)
Family and Succession
Kisshomaru Ueshiba had a son Moriteru, who after his death in 1999 took over the title of Doshu as the third in the history of Aikido. Thanks to this, the transmission line remains unbroken in the Ueshiba family.
"Aikido is not about defeating an opponent with force. It is an art of harmony, in which we connect with the energy of the attacker and direct it in a peaceful way." Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba