Chief Instructor of New England Aikikai from 1966-2004, Mitsunari Kanai Shihan was one of the last uchi deshi (live-in apprentice) of the founder of Aikido, Professor Morihei Ueshiba, or O-Sensei, with whom he studied intensively for over ten years.  An 8th degree black belt in Aikido, Kanai Sensei was also a master of other martial arts of Japan and expert in the use of the sword and staff.  He was assigned to New England Aikikai in 1966 by Aikido World Headquarters in Tokyo.

Kanai Sensei was instrumental in the founding of the United States Aikido Federation and was Technical Director for the Eastern United States.  He taught widely in Japan, Europe, and throughout the United States and Canada.  He passed away on March 28, 2004.