Morihiro Saito Sensei: Guardian of Iwama’s Aikido Legacy
Early Life & Path to Aikido
Morihiro Saito was born on March 31, 1928, in a modest farming village in Japan’s Ibaraki Prefecture. As a schoolboy, he cultivated an interest in martial disciplines like kendo and later added karate and judo to his training repertoire senseiaikido.com+11Wikipedia+11Pinterest+11.
After World War II, amid restrictions on weapons and martial arts, Saito sought out unarmed self‑defence training. His work with the Japanese National Railways gave him an alternating-day schedule—24 hours on, 24 off—providing him the rare opportunity to train intensively Wikipedia+1.
At age 18, in 1946, Saito met Morihei Ueshiba (Ōsensei) and began training at the Iwama Dojo, quickly becoming one of the founder’s most devoted students senseiaikido.com+12Wikipedia+12Aikido Italia Network+12.
Years of Devotion under the Founder
Saito remained closely associated with Ueshiba for over two decades. The unique work schedule allowed him to train before dawn, joining Ōsensei in morning drills, ritual practice at the Aiki Shrine, and daily weapons training with the wooden sword (bokken) and staff (jo).
In 1969, after Ueshiba’s passing, Saito was entrusted with the leadership of Iwama Dojo and the care of the Aiki Shrine — a role he held for over 30 years, safeguarding both the technical and spiritual heritage of Iwama-style Aikido
Teaching Philosophy & Influence
Saito devoted his life to preserving Ōsensei’s teachings, prioritising clear structure and rigor. He emphasized the importance of foundational elements—posture (hanmi), breath (kokyu), and the relationship between armed and unarmed techniques (bukiwaza versus taijutsu).
His reputation for technical clarity and stamina drew students worldwide, inspiring many to travel to Iwama or inviting Saito to teach abroad. He also documented his methods through numerous books and instructional films, leaving behind a rich archive for future practitioners.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Saito’s legacy endures through numerous instructors who carry forward the Iwama tradition of Aikido.
Following his passing in May 2002, leadership at the Iwama Dojo transitioned to Hitohiro Saito (his son) and the Aikikai headquarters. A branch of students remained aligned with Aikikai, while others formed independent lineages, illustrating Saito’s expansive and enduring impact
Morihiro Saito Sensei remains celebrated not only for his technical mastery but for his devotion to preserving the spiritual and martial teachings of Aikido’s founder. His precision, discipline, and scholarly approach continue to inspire dojos worldwide.