About Tenzan Aikido
Tenzan Aikido was founded in Seattle by Bruce Bookman Sensei in 1981. At our dojo, you will find a community dedicated to aikido practice for a variety of reasons. Some practice as a form of artistic expression, others are looking for a physical way to embody the deep philosophical underpinning of aikido while others strive towards a non-violent form of self-defense and empowerment. Many practice at Tenzan Aikido to improve their physical fitness and to experience that unique bond of joining a dojo community.
Bookman Sensei has created a program that draws on his 53+ years of aikido including an apprenticeship in Japan with some of the greatest masters in the world. He is committed to helping each member benefit from his years of experience as well as training the dojo black-belts to teach. Because of this, Tenzan Aikido is able to offer outstanding training in both the Adults' and Children's Programs.
The caliber of instruction, our beautiful facility and convenient location help to make Tenzan Aikido a great place to train.
Tenzan Aikido is a martial arts center that welcomes your entire family. We are proud members of the United States Aikido Federation (Code of Conduct) and are affiliated with Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo.
What Is Aikido 合気道?
Aikido is a Japanese martial art emphasizing personal growth and empowerment. While aikido improves one's physical self-defense ability, the main focus is to bring balance to any situation. The founder of aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, said that the practice of aikido helps a person reach their true, compassionate and sincere nature.
Aikido is an art of throwing and pinning techniques. There is no competition in aikido. People practice together in mutual cooperation to learn the movements. Over time, practitioners experience health, martial ability and an overall sense of wellbeing.
The principles of aikido bring clarity and purpose to one's life. More than a way to defeat others, aikido is a process of expanding consciousness with far-reaching applications to approach the challenges of daily life.
"The Art of Peace begins with you. Work on yourself and your appointed task in the Art of Peace. Everyone has a spirit that can be refined, a body that can be trained in some manner, a suitable path to follow."
Tip of the Month
May, 2026 — Bookman sensei demonstrates a take down from behind emphasizing complete relaxation. Tsuki ushiro ate.
Tenzan Photo Gallery
What Our Members Say
"We love the teaching methods and modalities that are used by Tenzan Aikido. The sense of discipline, trust, camaraderie and fairness that is employed by all the teachers at the dojo is really very impressive and our 6 year old son has benefited significantly from participating in the classes."
"My kids have been training here for the last 3 years, and I've just joined myself with the adult program. First of all, I love the community — made some of our best friends here. The level of instruction at this dojo is top-notch. I hear this is one of the top aikido schools in the US."
"Started with our oldest son, 3 and a half years ago for a summer camp, now he is 8 and got his brown belt. We really appreciate the entire team and have great respect for Bookman Sensei and Melissa in regards to their beliefs and what they are teaching our children."
"I have been an active practitioner at the dojo for almost a decade, and also a very proud parent of two children that participate at the dojo. I can attest to the great quality of adult and child teaching that occurs on a daily basis."
"I have known Bookman Sensei for over 20 years. If one judges a teacher by the character and proficiency of his students, Bookman Sensei has already created an exceptional legacy that includes thousands of students and a multitude of advanced practitioners."
Ready to begin your aikido journey?
Getting Started