Hotel Accommodations

Working with Marriott Hotels we have arranged special rates for our attendees at the Westin, Delta Downtown, and Marriot Downtown. All conveniently located less than 15-minutes walk from our venue at the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre.

Original historical booking deadline: Book by July 29, 2025 to secure your accommodations.

• The Westin Calgary — From $179 CAD. A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, centrally located, just 6 minutes from the seminar location.
• Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown — From $189 CAD. Located in downtown Calgary, this modern hotel offers an 8 minute walk to the seminar venue and access to local attractions.
• Calgary Marriott — From $209 CAD. Located in downtown Calgary, this hotel features a fitness center and restaurant, with a 14-minute walk to the seminar venue.

Join Us for Our 45th Anniversary Banquet

In the spirit of the seminar’s location, we’ve reserved a private room at Calgary’s foremost Chinese restaurant, Silver Dragon. Come taste the iconic Ginger Beef, a Calgary original, at one of Calgary’s best.

Established in 1966, Silver Dragon is located in the heart of Chinatown and is just a short walk from the seminar hotels.

Your ticket includes a full multi-course meal with wine, beer, non-alcoholic options, and dessert. This is the main event of our celebration. It wouldn’t be the same without you. Guests are warmly welcome.

• Original historical price: $85 CAD per ticket.
• Original historical date and time: Saturday, August 30 at 6:00 PM.
• Location: Silver Dragon Restaurant, 106 3 Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta.
• Original historical ticket deadline: August 23, 2025.
• Dress code: Business casual to semi-formal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the airport from the seminar and what would be the best way (and reasonable price) to travel from the airport?

Calgary’s airport is relatively close to downtown. Public Transit includes the #300 rapid transit bus, which costs $3.80, takes about 45 minutes, and will take you within easy walking distance of our partner hotels. You can catch this bus at both the domestic and international terminals. See yyc.com for more details.

Another option is a ride-share (Uber, Lyft) or taxi for $60 - $80.

Where can I stay during the seminar?

We have hotel partnerships with preferred rates at three hotels available before July 29; see above to use the booking links. The hotels are all within easy walking distance of the seminar, in downtown Calgary and close to many amenities and attractions.

Is there parking for the event?

There is plenty of parking near the venue. There is $5 parking on Saturday and Sunday directly adjacent to the Calgary Chinese Cultural Center on the western side of the building. There is also $1 parking per 12 hours on weekends in the Harmony Parkade about two blocks from the venue. Street parking is also plentiful and reasonable on Saturday and free on Sunday. For Friday, parking is more expensive before 6pm, but readily available as well.

How about local transit to the area?

Calgary’s LRT (called the “C-Train”) runs east-west on 7th avenue and services much of the city. It is a 4-block walk from this LRT line to the venue. There is also extensive bus service to the area.

Can all levels of Aikido students participate in the seminar?

Yes! All levels are welcome from age 13 and up.

Is there an opportunity for younger kids?

Yes, there is a children’s session (ages 6 - 12) with Ryuji Shirakawa Shihan on Thursday, August 28 at 6:30pm. This will be conducted at our regular dojo space, not at the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre. Visit our dojo homepage for more details.

Are there places to eat near the seminar venue?

Chinatown has dozens of food establishments within a few minutes’ walk of the seminar. Snacks, groceries, coffee, lunch and dinner are readily available and reasonably priced.

What is the Saturday evening banquet?

No anniversary seminar is complete without a celebration banquet! Everyone is invited to come and dine together to mark another milestone in the history of Calgary Aikikai. More details to come on this event. Budget for roughly $50 - $90 per person and the dress code is usually “business casual”.

What else is there to do in Calgary?

Calgary is a modern city of 1.4 million people. Museums, Galleries, nightlife and neighbourhoods to explore are within easy walking distance from the seminar venue. We recommend taking in the country around Calgary as well. The Rocky Mountains of Banff and Canmore, Kananaskis Country, Dinosaur Park and Drumheller are absolutely worth a visit. Check out our partner site Tourism Calgary for more ideas.

I’ve heard that Calgary is famous for its Cowboy culture. Where can I get me some of that?

Visit the Travel Alberta website for some Western-specific ideas and explore Calgary’s fascinating history.

Can anyone participate in the Advanced Ukemi Workshop with Shirakawa Shihan?

While there is no minimum rank or ability required to register for this pre-seminar workshop, you should be aware that the content is intended for those who have at least a moderate practical ability to take ukemi. If basic rolls are a challenge or if you’ve never taken a breakfall before, this workshop may not be for you. Use your discretion.

What does “Business Casual to Semi-Formal” mean?

It’s a flexible dress code that encourages you to look polished and comfortable, without needing a full suit or evening gown. This is a celebration, so take the opportunity to look good and feel good. If you’re traveling, pack light: a collared shirt or blouse, clean shoes, and tailored pants or a simple dress will work well. Layers like a blazer or cardigan are a nice touch if you have room, but not required. Clean, low-profile sneakers are acceptable if they complement your outfit, but avoid athletic or overly worn shoes. Ties and heels are optional. Aim for something you’d feel confident wearing to a professional dinner or wedding rehearsal, and you’ll be perfectly on track.

Thank You!

A big thank you to Tourism Calgary for their generous support of our 45th anniversary celebration and seminar. Calgary Aikikai has been serving the community since 1980 and is proud to call Calgary home. We hope our visitors enjoy all the great amenities and attractions our beautiful city has to offer during their stay.

Access exclusive discounts at over 30 restaurants, attractions, shops, and more with the mobile exclusive Calgary ‘Explore More’ 2025 Pass, designed for you to enjoy during your downtime. This complimentary pass is reserved exclusively for athletes, coaches, and officials. Sign up today and prepare for your visit!

Historical promotion: Find out more and get the pass with promo code EXPLORE2025.