Introducing a new series with the first installment:

Master Arikawa Sadateru, an adept of Aikido who inherited invaluable archival footage left behind.

What exactly is Aikido, the essence of Japanese martial arts?
A direct disciple of Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba, Arikawa Sadateru dedicated himself to rigorous training and later supported Aikido discreetly as a senior figure. Renowned not only for his prowess but also as a diligent researcher who amassed numerous documents, he invested personal funds to record extensive footage of his master. Leveraging these inherited voice recordings, photos, and films, he aims to unravel Morihei Ueshiba's martial art.

Included in this release:

Profile
Demonstration 1
Lecture 1 ("What is Aikido?")
Demonstration 2
Lecture 2 ("What is Aikido?")
Demonstration 3

Featuring:

Morihei Ueshiba (December 14, 1883 - April 26, 1969)
Born in Wakayama Prefecture, the founder of Aikido. He originated Aikido, a gem of Japanese martial arts based on Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu learned from Sokaku Takeda. Renowned as an extraordinary martial artist, he left behind numerous legendary episodes and instructed many disciples across various fields. He spread Aikido not only in Japan but also worldwide.

Sadateru Arikawa (January 14, 1930 - October 11, 2003)
Born in Tokyo. Since childhood, he was fascinated by martial arts, studying Shotokan Karate under Yoshitane Funakoshi and Yoshitatsu Funakoshi. In 1947, he joined the Aikikai Hombu Dojo. As a direct disciple of the founder Morihei Ueshiba, he dedicated himself to training, becoming the chief instructor of the Hombu Dojo in 1959 and achieving 8th dan in Aikido in 1970. Known for his exceptional techniques and intense training style during the chaotic post-war period, he was nicknamed "Killer Arikawa," resonating even internationally. Despite his practical approach, he was also a diligent researcher who collected a wealth of materials, preserving numerous photographs and films of Morihei Ueshiba at personal expense. As a senior figure in the Aikikai, he devoted himself to the dissemination and development of Aikido for many years, attaining the rank of 9th dan in 1994.