Nihon Goshin Aikido

Nihon Goshin Aikido was founded by Master Shondo Morita. He was trained in Judo, Kobudo (weapons), Karate, and esoteric arts. After mastering these arts, he realized that though they were highly effective, no single style was complete. Each focused on a separate element of Self-Defense: Karate focused on striking, Judo on throwing, and JuJitsu on joint locks. Morita incorporated them into the art of Nihon Goshin Aikido. It is significant to note that he did not merely choose the best techniques form each system, but a variety of techniques. Because people vary in height, some techniques work well for one but not the other. Nihon Goshin Aikido is a highly effective form of Martial Arts because of its variety of principles.

Nihon Goshin Aikido was brought to the United States by Mr. Richard A. Bowe. While in the military, Mr. Bowe was stationed on the island of Hokkaido, where he studied a variety of Martial Arts. No of them contained what he was searching for in a Martial Art. Eventually, he met Morita and was impressed with the ease with which his students were able to throw him. He studied with Morita and his adopted son, Tominosuke Nara, and was awarded a black belt. He returned to the United States in 1962, and began teaching Nihon Goshin Aikido at a local karate school. On September 12, 1963, he opened his own dojo in Gutenberg, New Jersey. He was promoted to 5th degree black belt by Master Nara. His students and their students continue to teach Nihon Goshin Aikido in numerous dojos throughout the United States.

Sensei Robert B. MacEwen, Jr., holds a Fifth Degree Black Belt in Nihon Goshin Aikido, second highest in the world.  He has been in the martial arts since 1972. Sensei MacEwen studied directly under Richard A. Bowe and John Lehman. Today, Sensei MacEwen is one of the top-rated practitioners of Aikido in America. His explosive style has been recognized by Martial Arts publications and organizations all over the world. His dedicated approach to teaching and his outstanding skill have earned him a place in the National Martial Arts Hall of Fame four times. Mr MacEwen promoted Mr. Decker, Mr. DePaolo and Mr. Sgombick to the ranks they hold today.