Currently, the greatest influence on our Aiki-Jujitsu is the teachings of Sensei Iain Abernethy and his Karate-Jutsu. The history of Karate from the annexing of the island of Okinawa in the 19th century until now is detailed and fascinating and closely linked with Jujitsu. Indeed Wadō Ryū Karate-Do (studied by Sensei Iain and by our founder) is an amalgamation of Shotokan Karate and Shindō Yōshin Ryu Jujitsu!

​

It wouldn’t be too far fetched to suggest that the Kajuen Ryu’s interpretation of Aiki-Jujitsu bears a close resemblance to Karate-Jutsu. The main difference being that Karate has set solo forms (kata) of Chinese origin and our Aiki-Jujitsu has set partner forms that have origins in Aikido and its forerunners. Several of the principles that we use, such as correct understanding of stances and angles, come from Karate. On the other hand, many modern Karate practitioners turn to Jujitsu or Judo in order to better train in joint destruction and throwing.