In Japan, the months of April and May are quite busy in celebrations. Within the Aikido world, there are also a few events that are worth noting such as the anniversary of the founder's passing on April 26th 1969, the Aiki Shrine Festival and the 29th of April and the massive annual All Japan Aikido Demonstration on May 22nd.
The first event of this series of commemorations is the Shinobukai. It is a special evening that takes place at the Aikido World Headquarters in Tokyo on the exact date of the founder Morihei Ueshiba's passing (April 26th 1969).
Every year, several archive videos featuring O Sensei Morihei Ueshiba and his son the second Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba are played on a big screen in the main dojo at the third floor. Although this footage has been around for a while, it is always a pleasure to watch it for its historical and inspirational values.
Video of O Sensei's 1935 demonstration at the Asahi Journal
For the occasion, a few people who have personally known the founder are invited to give speeches after the projection. Finally, sake and rice crackers are offered by the Aikikai to the people present. It is a very nice occasion to get together in the dojo and to talk to fellow students and teachers.
Doshu making a speech
Enjoying sake and crackers between friends
Photos by Jordy Delage, Eriko Hoshi
