Tenshin Dojo was founded by Yuriko Fujitani in 1974, mother in law to Sensei Take Shigemichi (a.k.a. Steven Seagal in later years), who was the Chief Instructor at that time. As the first foreigner to open a dojo in Japan, Take Sensei was blessed with great success. His popularity was further enhanced by Oomoto's endorsement. Oomoto, is a religious foundation that promotes universal peace and one of the more well-known followers was the great "O" Sensei, founder of martial art Aikido.
	The name "Tenshin" (in kanji character means Heaven's Heart) was given by the 3rd leader of Oomoto, Naohi Deguchi to the Take family for their dojo in Juso, Osaka. Take Sensei operated the dojo since its opening in 1974 and in the early 80's, he went back to his home country, US with his family to open the very first Tenshin's branch in the States in Taos, New Mexico. The Take family opened another dojo in Los Angeles and during this time, he met super agent Michael Ovitz who made him a big action star in Hollywood.
	The original Tenshin Dojo in Osaka is still standing and running under the wing of Fujitani Sensei. Kentaro Tak?-Seagal is relocating to TORRANCE after 12 years in the entertainment business in Japan/US. Kentaro will be opening a contemporary dojo in TORRANCE to continue his family tradition of sharing his skills and knowledge in martial arts as well as his passion in creative arts.
	The new Tenshin US will provide a platform for the community to exchange cultures, arts and ideas. The Tak? family hopes to promote healthy life-style as well as providing entertainment that will bring the community closer together. With the multi-diversified talents that TORRANCE offers, we hope to tap on these resources and provide them with a stage where they can share their arts / talents with the rest of the community.