Aikido and Kenjutsu in Berlin Kreuzberg

At the Dojo am Gleisdreieck, we practice Aikido and Kenjutsu — two Japanese martial arts that work with presence, body awareness, and movement rather than strength or speed. Ulrike Serak (7th Dan Aikikai) and Max Eriksson Ohlwein (6th Dan Aikikai) teach in the lineage of Christian Tissier Shihan. Training takes place in German. Teachers switch to English when needed, and all instructors are fluent in English. The dojo includes members from many countries, among them expats with limited German — most students speak English as well.

Aikido works with the principle of redirecting force rather than opposing it. Training involves joint locks, throws, and breakfalls — and the focus throughout is on breathing, timing, and maintaining your center while moving. Through conscious breathing, flowing movement, and attentive partner work, you develop the capacity to stay composed under pressure. Progress comes from training together, not from competition. New to martial arts or returning after a break: beginners train alongside experienced students from the first session.

Kenjutsu is the art of Japanese swordsmanship. Training includes cutting exercises and partner forms — referred to as Suburi and Kumi Tachi. Each movement requires precision and full attention. This way, we develop body mechanics and centerline work and sharpen focus. We mainly practice with Bokken (wooden swords) and Shinai (bamboo swords). Kenjutsu is taught as a discipline in its own right — no Aikido background needed. Come as you are and start exploring.

We train Monday to Saturday, with morning and evening classes. All levels practice together; beginners receive individual guidance as needed. Dedicated introductory classes run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays for Aikido, and on Thursdays for Kenjutsu. The Dojo is located at Gleisdreieck, accessible via U1/U2, S-Bahn, and bus M29, five minutes’ walk from Potsdamer Platz. Classes are held in German; teachers switch to English as needed. Full schedule available under Training Times.

Children from 4 to 12 learn Aikido through movement and partner work — no competitions, no pressure to keep up. Depending on their age, they practice basic techniques, rolls, and simple throws at their own pace. From age 12, the youth program transitions toward adult training, preparing teenagers for the full curriculum. Your child is welcome to try a class before committing. Get in touch to arrange a free trial session.

Our dojo is part of a wide international network. Ulrike Serak and Max Eriksson Ohlwein train and teach regularly abroad, and many of our members attend seminars across Germany, Europe, and beyond. Guest teachers visit us regularly. Through the German Aikido Federation, we are connected to the Aikikai in Japan — all grades awarded here are recognized internationally. Both Ulrike and Max serve on the federation’s Grading Committee; Max is also its president.

If you’d like to try Aikido or Kenjutsu, you’re welcome to join one of our introductory sessions — no experience necessary. Aikido beginners’ classes run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays; Kenjutsu on Thursdays. The Dojo is located in Kreuzberg, directly at Gleisdreieckpark, a short walk from the U-Bahn station Gleisdreieck. For your first session, comfortable sportswear with long trousers is all you need. Changing rooms and showers are available. Just send us a short message via the contact form. If you already practice Aikido or Kenjutsu and are looking to join, get in touch the same way — we’ll find the right point of entry together.