Top Ten Reasons to Study Abroad  

Study the Ancient Art of Aikido in Japan!

 June 11-July 1, 2010

  Faculty-led, world-focused

Penn State faculty-led programs offer students the guidance of trusted faculty, with the freedom to explore the world. Our faculty will create the ideal itinerary for you.

History, Culture and Practice of Traditional Aikido in Japan: 3 credits

During this intensive 3-week course you will travel to exotic Japan – the source of the martial art Aikido. You will train up to three times a day and visit cultural historic sites, such as the original Iwama Dojo (training hall) where the Founder of Aikido created this traditional martial art considered a Japanese Cultural Heritage. Here you will train, stand under the waterfall where the Founder meditated daily, and see historic shrines dedicated to Aikido and other martial arts. You will visit the World Headquarters of Aikido in Tokyo – one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world, and watch training with the grandson of the founder of Aikido. Your intensive training will be in traditional countryside Japanese “Dojos” where you will become immersed in the Japanese language, culture and practice of the martial arts. You will visit other martial arts Dojos such as Kendo, Sumo, Judo and Karate, and will have the opportunity to learn calligraphy from a master martial arts instructor of Samurai lineage. Numerous sightseeing opportunities will allow you to see famous shrines, temples, castles, museums, even visit an authentic Samurai village. Your journey will take you to many cities, such as Tokyo, Akita, Honjo, Shiogama, Sendai, Mito and Iwama. This combination of small and large cites will allow you to experience both ancient and modern Japan. This is a lifetime opportunity for anyone interested in Japan and the Japanese martial arts.

Instruction Locations – Students will visit five different Dojos throughout Japan:

• Aikikai World Headquarters, Tokyo.
• Akita Aikishuren Dojo, Akita
• Taidokai Dojo, Honjo
• Shiogama Aikishuren Dojo, Shiogama
• Iwama Dojo, Iwama

Classes will be taught at each Dojo by the Chief Instructors who are all considered to be Master Instructors and hold ranks 6th degree black belt or higher. Classes will be taught in traditional Japanese language and students will be completely immersed in the culture and practice of traditional Japanese martial arts. Dr. Sullivan will be present at all classes as Assistant Instructor and Interpreter. Additional Aikido classes will be taught daily by Dr. Sullivan, who will also organize lectures, cultural tours and sightseeing.

 Assisting Dr. Sullivan will be Mark Larson Sensei, 5th degree black belt Aikido Instructor and professor at North Hennepin Community College in Minnesota.