| After a period of study of traditional karate, John Thomas Read Sensei began formal Aikido study in 1969 as a way to broaden and deepen his study of Zen meditation. In 1974, Read Sensei moved to Japan where he studied under Masters Michio Hikitsuchi (Aikido 10th dan), Yasushi Tojima, and other senior teachers of the Aiki Kumano Juku Dojo. After returning from Japan, Read Sensei opened Northcoast Aikido in 1977 with formal written sanction from Master Michio Hikitsuchi. He continues to teach Aikido and Aikibojitsu at Northcoast Aikido and in seminars in the USA and internationally. |
| John Thomas Read - Aikibojitsu Founder |



| Aikibojitsu - The Art of the Staff |