At Florida Budokan, Kyudo, Karate, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, Japanese Swordsmanship, and the spirit of Budo form the essence of our martial arts programs Florida Budokan is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit for traditional Japanese martial arts, located at 37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736.
At our dual dojos, we make a commitment: Provide traditional martial arts training safely, professionally, and systematically. Students provide dedication; we provide instruction, support, and a place to grow.
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) – The Way of the Bow at Florida Budokan
Kyudo, the traditional Japanese art of archery is one of the oldest and most revered Japanese arts. At Florida Budokan, students study traditional Kyudo techniques under the official membership of the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Our Kyudo dojo is the only one of its kind—it is the only Kyudo dojo in the State of Florida, designed for safeguarding and teaching the enduring practices of Japanese Archery.
Kyudo – Mindful Archery Practice
the art of Japanese archery emphasizes posture, controlled breathing, formal respect, and a meditative approach to action. Every class incorporates zazen-style meditation, helping practitioners cultivate mindfulness, tranquility, and clarity. Unlike modern archery, Kyudo views each release as a manifestation of mental balance.
Kyudo Lesson Times
• Sundays at 2pm – Kyudo All Levels
• Kyudo Beginners on Thursdays at 6:30pm
Students are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior and may stay 30 minutes after class for self-study under the guidance of sempai.
Traditional Karate & Shotokan Karate at Makoto Dojo
Karate at the Florida Budokan organization is delivered using authentic Shotokan training techniques, affiliated with the IMAF (International Martial Arts Federation) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. These strong lineages connect our students directly to authentic lineages, including lineage tracing to Tokugawa leadership.
Shotokan Karate for Body, Spirit, and Character
classical Shotokan training emphasizes kihon (basics), formal patterns, and kumite (sparring). Classes combine physical fitness with personal development—self-control, humility, perseverance, and courage.
Karate Training Times
• Karate Advanced at 6:30pm on Mondays
• Tuesdays 6:30pm – Karatedo (All Levels)
• Karate Intermediate on Thursdays at 6:30pm
• Fridays 6:30pm – Karatedo All – Self-Defense/Kumite
One-on-one instruction available by schedule.
Iaido at Kashimon Dojo – Traditional Sword Art
Japanese sword-drawing art is taught at Kashimon dojo through the tradition of Toyama Ryu Iaido under the Toyama Ryu Battodo Association. Our dojo is distinguished as the first official Toyama Ryu Iaido branch outside Japan.
Iaido – Precision and Control
The art teaches controlled, precise movements for drawing, cutting, and returning the sword. Students also train in Zen Nihon Batto-Do methods, through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Renmei (ZNBDR), enhancing knowledge of classical sword techniques.
Iaido Class Times
• Tuesdays 6:30pm – Iaido
• Iaido for beginners on Wednesdays at 6:30pm
• Friday 6:30pm – Iaido all levels
Japanese Swordsmanship – Precision, Discipline & Cultural Heritage
The art of Japanese swordsmanship represents the classical legacy of Japanese warriors. At Florida Budokan, this includes the complete range of sword methods: formal dojo conduct, ancient cutting methods, blade cutting drills, and a mastery of timing, ma-ai, and focus. Students develop fluid, deliberate motion, cultivate mental calm, and honor the heritage.
The Spirit of Budo in Japanese Martial Arts
Budo is the core principle behind all these disciplines, and it is embedded in our instruction.
Budo emphasizes:
• Moral character
• Service and community commitment
• Developing mental balance
• Balancing mind, body, and soul
Every Kyudo, Karate, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class incorporates elements of Budo philosophy through practice, mindfulness, and character development.
Florida Budokan Dojo Guidelines
The dojo is available half an hour before and after class for individual practice or review with senior students. To preserve authenticity and quality instruction, Florida Budokan is available to visitors solely during instructional periods and events.
Supporting the Dojo & Community
As a non-profit educational organization, Florida Budokan depends on student and Japanese Archery community support. All students are encouraged to contribute a few volunteer hours each year, participating in community and dojo activities, and supporting fellow students.
Florida Budokan Tuition and Fees
Our tuition is structured to keep costs low yet maintain excellence.
• $85 per month – regular membership
• Discounted tuition $75/month for students and veterans
• $50 per month for each extra family member
• Membership & insurance for all programs: $65 annually, due March
Maintaining the dojo through soji and samu is required, reflecting the spirit of Budo.
Florida Budokan at Arching Oaks Cultural Center
Florida Budokan is situated at Arching Oaks, the premier Japanese cultural center, the largest zoned Japanese cultural center in the United States, spanning 20 acres.
The grounds include:
• Two fully equipped Japanese training halls
• Traditional tatami room for tea and incense ceremonies
• Art and instructional spaces
• Japanese meditation & water garden
This immersive space allows students and visitors to relax and unwind, reconnect, and experience traditional Japanese arts firsthand.
Start Training in Japanese Martial Arts at Florida Budokan
If you feel drawn to Kyudo, classical Karate, Iaido sword practice, Kenjutsu and Japanese sword arts, or the broader traditions of Budo, Florida Budokan offers a place to develop your skills in a traditional setting. Whether your goal is discipline, body development, appreciation of Japanese tradition, or mental focus, your journey starts at Florida Budokan.
Florida Budokan Location & Contact
???? Florida Budokan at Arching Oaks Cultural Center
37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736
FAQ’s
FAQ 1: What martial arts are taught at Florida Budokan?
Florida Budokan offers traditional Japanese martial arts rooted in traditional Budo principles. Training includes the art of Kyudo and Japanese Archery, traditional Shotokan-style Karate, Iaido sword-drawing practice, and classical Japanese sword arts. All programs emphasize historical legitimacy, proper etiquette, and personal Shotokan Karate development.
FAQ 2: Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Florida Budokan welcomes new students as well as advanced martial artists. Each discipline offers introductory instruction, and training is delivered in a structured, progressive manner to ensure student safety, proper learning, and steady growth.
FAQ 3: What makes Kyudo (Japanese Archery) at Florida Budokan unique?
Florida Budokan is home to the sole Kyudo dojo in Florida. Students train in the Yosoku style of Kyudo and are officially affiliated with the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Kyudo training emphasizes posture, breath control, etiquette, and Zen meditation, treating archery as a spiritual path rather than a competitive sport.
FAQ 4: What style of Karate is practiced at Florida Budokan?
Karate training follows classical Shotokan methodology under recognized organizations including the IMAF and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. Classes focus on fundamental techniques, kata (forms), and kumite (sparring), while developing personal discipline, including respect, perseverance, humility, and courage.
FAQ 5: What is Iaido, and how is Japanese Swordsmanship taught?
The art of Iaido is the Japanese discipline of drawing, cutting, and returning the sword with precision and awareness. At Florida Budokan’s Iaido dojo, students practice Toyama Ryu Iaido under the TIBDR. Training also includes Batto-do through the ZNBDR, providing a comprehensive approach to traditional sword practice.
FAQ 6: What role does Budo play in classes?
Japanese Budo philosophy is the ethical and philosophical foundation behind all training at Florida Budokan. It emphasizes ethical conduct, discipline, courtesy, community responsibility, and mind-body-spirit balance. Zen meditation, traditional manners, and supportive training are integrated into every Kyudo, Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class.
FAQ 7: Where is Florida Budokan located, and when is the dojo open?
Florida Budokan is located at 37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736, within the Arching Oaks Cultural Center. The dojo is open only during scheduled training hours, special programs, and events. Students may arrive 30 minutes before class and remain up to thirty minutes afterward for self-study or assistance with senior students.