Shinjitsu Dojo

Shinjitsu Dojo is a traditional dojo located in the Chicago suburbs, created for the study of the Japanese martial arts of Aikido and Kenjutsu. Our dojo is located inside of Gymkhana Gymnasium in Hanover Park, Illinois, close to I-90 and the O’Hare-Elgin Expressway.

Shinjitsu Dojo was founded in March of 2004, with encouragement to offer opportunity for those interested to train in practical forms of Aikido and Kenjutsu. Additionally it is an opportunity for Shinjitsu Dojo to give back to the community, and to anyone interested in learning the martial arts in a positive environment. It is said that training this way, in this form may promote improved health, and create a reduction of stress. While training, we are also polishing our spirits and working on becoming better human beings.

Shinjitsu in Japanese represents “truthfulness“. It is paramount that Shinjitsu Dojo adheres to the teachings of what O-Sensei was disseminating throughout the years of his training, and to what the Aikikai Foundation, and all the great Shihan have also continued.  “O” Sensei’s pre-war Aikido also know as Aiki-budo was extremely practical and may be unrecognizable to some.  ”O” Sensei’s post war Aikido continued to evolve through-out his lifetime. Shinjitsu dojo trains in such a manner to emulate these different time periods.   It is our mission to keep ourselves honest, and to train as realistically as we can, without being hurtful to anyone. When we hurt our opponent we hurt ourselves.  Our training is important to us, and as important to you as well.  Whatever path we choose to follow we must always keep it as real as possible, while maintaining a professional, fun and safe environment. One will feel better about oneself.

Masakatsu Agatsu…. True Victory is victory over oneself!