08/06/2026
DATA: Sensei Javier Vázquez began practicing aikido at the end of 1992 and was part of a small, but dedicated, group of students who began their journey through this martial art under the supervision and tutelage of sensei Yoshimitsu Yamada, Chairman of the United States Aikido Federation, President of Sansuikai Latin America and one of the most influential martial arts teachers in the world. In the early 1990s, aikido was virtually unknown in Puerto Rico, and it was from this small group of diligent aikidokas, many of whom are still active, that its practice began to spread in Puerto Rico. In September 1994, he was part of the founding members of the San Juan Aikikai dojo. Sensei Javier Vazquez became the Chief Instructor of the San Juan Aikikai dojo in 2000 and regularly teaches aikido and iaido there. He holds a 6th Degree Black Belt in Aikido and also holds the the title of Shihan (Master Instructor). He is also an ordained Buddhist Priest in the lineage of the White Plum Asangha which was founded by Hakuyu Taizan Maezumi Roshi (February 24, 1931—May 15, 1995). He is a direct student of Eran Junryu Vardi Roshi. Eran Junryu Vardi is a Zen Master-Teacher, he holds a 6th Degree Black Belt in Aikido and also holds the title of Shihan. Sensei Vardi is the Chief Priest of Eiryu-ji Zen Center and Chief Instructor of Aikido of Ramapo Valley, in Wyckoff, New Jersey. Sensei Vazquez is also a licensed Attorney.
23/04/2026
28/03/2026