Aikido-Zen Berlin

Aikido-Zen Berlin is a martial arts and meditation school based in Kreuzberg, Berlin, offering Aikido classes and seminars for adults and children. Its dojo is located at Mehringdamm 55, and beginners can join at any time; a trial class is held on Fridays at 6:00 p.m. The school is led by Gerhard Walter, Shihan, 8th Dan, and Zen teacher, whose practice brings together the physical discipline of Aikido and the contemplative approach of Zen.

Aikido-Zen Berlin presents Aikido as more than self-defence: its teaching emphasizes harmony, presence, personal integrity, and the development of physical and spiritual abilities rather than competition or aggression. Training explores flowing, circular movement and practical techniques, with the aim of integrating attentive action into everyday life. The organization also offers dedicated projects, including a Ki project and a Zen project for therapists, alongside its regular classes and seminars. Walter’s background includes study with Aikido teachers in Japan and France and ongoing practice at the Hosshinji Zen monastery in Japan.