After a period of study of traditional karate, Tom 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 underwent a particularly rigorous tutelage under Masters Michio Hikitsuchi (Aikido 10th dan), Yasushi
Tojima, and other senior instructors of the Aiki Kumano Juku Dojo. After returning from Japan, Read
Sensei opened Northcoast Aikido in 1977 with formal sanction from Master Michio Hikitsuchi. He
continues to teach Aikido and Aikibojitsu both at Northcoast Aikido and in seminars across the United
States and Canada.
way to broaden and deepen his study of Zen meditation. In 1974, Read Sensei moved to Japan where
he underwent a particularly rigorous tutelage under Masters Michio Hikitsuchi (Aikido 10th dan), Yasushi
Tojima, and other senior instructors of the Aiki Kumano Juku Dojo. After returning from Japan, Read
Sensei opened Northcoast Aikido in 1977 with formal sanction from Master Michio Hikitsuchi. He
continues to teach Aikido and Aikibojitsu both at Northcoast Aikido and in seminars across the United
States and Canada.
| John Thomas Read, Aikibojitsu Founder |