Hama Rikyu Aikido: New Year Photography in Tokyo

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Two practitioners in hakama perform a dynamic Hama Rikyu aikido demonstration outdoors during a cultural event.

Many people do not associate Aikido with the New Year. However, many residents in Tokyo do. A group of practitioners gave their annual display at Hama Rikyu Gardens on January 2 and 3. It is a traditional part of the holiday celebrations. Here is what I saw in 2023 when I attended for the first time.

Crowds gather to watch a traditional Hama Rikyu aikido demonstration on a green mat in a sunlit park setting.

What is aikido?

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba. He blended martial studies, philosophy, and religious beliefs to create a fighting style that limits injury to both practitioner and attacker. With many different styles, it is practiced in about 140 countries.

An aikido master in a traditional hakama speaks into a microphone at an outdoor Hama Rikyu aikido event.

Hama Rikyu aikido performance

Taking place at the gardens every January 2nd and 3rd, this Hama Rikyu Aikido display serves as the prelude to the popular falconry demonstration. The crowd is substantial; I estimate at least 1,000 people gathered to watch.

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After a host guided the audience through the history and development of Aikido, the masters took to the mat, sending opponents down with deft throws.

Practitioners in traditional hakama perform a dynamic technique at an outdoor Hama Rikyu aikido demonstration.

The demonstration also showcased brutally effective holds. Powerful wrist locks caused opponents’ faces to contort in pain, and I’m sure I would last less than two seconds before tapping out. While Aikido may not be used in MMA, it is clearly sufficient for most people’s self-defense needs.

Aikido practitioners bow to each other during a Hama Rikyu aikido demonstration in a sunlit outdoor park.

Sword-fighting displays using bokken, traditional Japanese wooden swords were also a part of the performances. If one of those weapons hit, I bet they’d hurt. But it was fascinating to watch.

Aikido practitioners spar with wooden bokken during a Hama Rikyu aikido demonstration for a seated crowd.

Hama Rikyu aikido photography tips

A telephoto lens of at least 300mm is essential, as you’ll be shooting from a distance of about fifty meters. This allows you to fill the frame and capture the intensity on the aikidokas’ faces. The Fujifilm 100-400mm lens I used for these photos performed perfectly, a purchase I definitely don’t regret.
For camera settings, I recommend using a fast shutter speed (above 1/1000s) to freeze the fast-paced action of the throws.

Aikido practitioners in traditional hakama kneel in seiza during a Hama Rikyu aikido demonstration in a sunny park.

Event information

What: Aikido martial arts demonstration.
Where: Hama Rikyu Gardens, Chuo City, Tokyo.
When: Annually on January 2nd and 3rd, usually late morning and afternoon.
Cost: The standard garden entrance fee is required.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to get a seat if you don’t want to stand for the length of the demonstration.
For complete details on getting to the gardens, current entrance fees, and opening hours, please see our Guide to Hama Rikyu Gardens.

Is the aikido demonstration worth it?

The Hama Rikyu Gardens Aikido display is more than just a martial arts demonstration; it’s one part of Tokyo’s New Year traditions. From the precise throws to the intensity of the swordwork, it’s a captivating spectacle. If you find yourself in the city on January 2nd or 3rd, add this unique event to your itinerary. But for the photographers, don’t forget your long lens.