Instructors
Instructors
Our experienced instructors provide personalized guidance to every student.
Shota Sugawara
Dojo Head / Aikido 4th Dan
After experience launching businesses at IT companies and working with overseas NGOs, Shota discovered the appeal of Aikido and founded the dojo. His core philosophy is “applying Aikido to daily life.” Alongside the pursuit of technical excellence, he strives to create a welcoming environment where beginners, women, and seniors can take their first step with ease.
Drawing on his teaching experience in the United States, Malaysia, Germany, Switzerland, Poland, and other countries, he is also pioneering new approaches to learning through apps and video content.
His hobbies include surfing. He also applies his experience in Krav Maga (an Israeli close-combat system) to teach practical self-defense in collaboration with local police departments.
Message from the Dojo Head
Aikido is a martial art that anyone can start, regardless of age or fitness level. I myself discovered Aikido as a working adult and was captivated by its depth.
Mugenjuku is not a “strict and intimidating dojo.” Families train together, people start martial arts for the first time at 60, and busy professionals come to refresh after work. We aim to provide a fulfilling experience through Aikido, tailored to each person’s goals and pace.
Please feel free to drop by and visit the dojo. We look forward to seeing you.
Satoshi Ishikawa
Instructor / Aikido 5th Dan
He began training at the Yoshinkan Nakanobu Dojo in 2002 and later transferred to the Oji Dojo, where he earned his 5th Dan and instructor certification. While still at the Oji branch, he participated in several guest training sessions at Mugenjuku Kyoto, and officially joined Mugenjuku Tokyo in July 2022. His motto is “Martial arts begin with movement from the hips.”
After retiring from a career in banking, he has been actively involved in teaching Aikido to people with disabilities. His hobbies include web browsing and jazz appreciation, and he can occasionally be found at jazz cafes around Tokyo. His favorite musician is pianist Keith Jarrett.
Yuma Mizuno
Assistant Instructor / Yoshinkan Aikido 3rd Dan
Born in 2000, he started Aikido at age 2 at the Yoshinkan Aikido Shizuoka Branch, training under Branch Chief Keisuke Mizuno.
In February 2022, he began teaching the international school class at Mugenjuku Tokyo. He currently also teaches the children’s class.
He is pursuing research in relativity theory at graduate school. His hobbies include playing violin in chamber music ensembles and singing with guitar accompaniment.