Tim Detmer

Tim Detmer was first introduced to Aikido in 1979, and four years later, at the age of 23, he journeyed to Shingu, Japan, to study under Michio Hikitsuchi at the Aiki Kumano Juku Dojo. He has continued to live there for the last 40 years.

As a senior foreign practitioner there, he has often served as translator for regular practices, ceremonies, and seminars for various senseis. This has led to a lifelong exploration of the messages of Aikido and O-Sensei’s words.

Tim has studied the history, legends, and culture of the Kumano region, writing guide manuals, training other guides, and acting as a guide himself throughout Kumano's pilgrimage routes of rebirth. He believes O-Sensei crystallized Kumano’s ancient culture of hospitality and expressed it in the form of – thus he says, “Know Kumano and you can better understand O-Sensei’s heart.”

Currently a member of both Kumano Juku Dojo and Funada Dojo in Shingu, Japan, Tim has received 6th dan in Aikido and 4th dan in Aiki-bojutsu.