The Aikido Hombu Dojo in Tokyo once again opened its doors to host one of the most cherished traditions in the aikido calendar — the Kagamibiraki Ceremony. This annual gathering not only marks the symbolic beginning of the New Year within the martial arts community but also serves as a moment of renewal, reflection, and recognition for Aikidoka across the globe.
The Kagamibiraki, meaning “opening the mirror,” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and spiritual significance. Under the guidance of Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba, the ceremony remains a powerful celebration of aikido’s living tradition, honoring its philosophy while embracing its continued evolution.
This year’s ceremony witnessed a remarkable demonstration of growth and achievement within the global aikido community, with 1,152 practitioners promoted to higher dan ranks – a testament to the discipline, dedication, and perseverance that define the art.
Promotions by recommendation in the 2025 Kagamibiraki Ceremony included:
- Shodan (1st dan): 5
- Nidan (2nd dan): 7
- Sandan (3rd dan): 9
- Yondan (4th dan): 30
- Godan (5th dan): 656
- Rokudan (6th dan): 345
- Nanadan (7th dan): 90
- Hachidan (8th dan): 10
Each promotion, until 4th dan normally by examination, and after 4th dan only by recommendation, reflects years, often decades of rigorous training, humility, and unwavering commitment to the aikido path. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all those promoted and honor their journey as a source of inspiration to practitioners worldwide.
As part of the weekend’s events, the Liaison Conference of Dojos and Organizations from across Japan was held on the third floor of the Hombu Dojo. This important gathering provided a platform to reflect on the achievements of 2024 and to align on future plans for 2025 and beyond.
Key reports and presentations were delivered by:
- The Aikikai Foundation
- The All-Japan Aikido Embukai Planning Committee
- The Japan Aikido Federation
- The International Aikido Federation (IAF)
- The All Japan University Aikido Federation
- The All Japan High School Aikido Federation
- The Ibaraki Branch Dojo
The conference reinforced a unified vision—preserving aikido’s traditional values while embracing modern development, education, and international cooperation.
The International Aikido Federation (IAF), the sole globally recognised aikido federation, continues to play a pivotal role in the international sports landscape. As a proud member of the AIMS and SportAccord family, the IAF champions aikido’s presence at major global events.
Since becoming a full member of GAISF and the International World Games Association (IWGA) in 1984, the IAF has regularly participated in both the World Games and the World Combat Games as a demonstration sport. The IAF is also one of the founding members of AIMS, and currently holds key positions on its Executive Board.
Through its affiliation with AIMS, the IAF actively supports the United Through Sports (UTS) movement, promoting inclusion, education, and empowerment for youth around the world. Following the dissolution of GAISF in 2023, the IAF’s integration within SportAccord continues through its AIMS membership, ensuring aikido remains visible and valued on the global stage.
