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

The classical discipline of Kyudo is a historic and respected Japanese martial art. At Florida Budokan, students study traditional Kyudo techniques under the official membership of the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Our Kyudo dojo is unique—it is the one and only Kyudo training hall in Florida, designed for safeguarding and teaching the classical wisdom of the Japanese way of the bow.

Kyudo – Mindful Archery Practice

the art of Japanese archery emphasizes body alignment, controlled breathing, etiquette, and a meditative approach to action. Every class incorporates zazen-style meditation, helping practitioners cultivate mindfulness, tranquility, and mental clarity. Unlike modern archery, Kyudo views each release as a expression of centered focus.

Kyudo (Japanese Archery) Classes

• Sundays at 2pm – Kyudo All Levels
• 6:30pm Thursdays – Beginner Kyudo

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

Traditional Karate at our Florida dojo is taught through traditional Shotokan Karate methods, under the guidance of the IMAF (International Martial Arts Federation) and the Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai Japan. These strong lineages tie practitioners to classical Japanese masters, including lineage tracing to Tokugawa leadership.

Shotokan Karate – Strength, Mind, and Virtue

Shotokan-style Karate training emphasizes kihon (basics), prearranged sequences, and controlled sparring. Classes combine physical fitness with personal development—respect, perseverance, humility, and courage.

Karate Training Times

• Mondays 6:30pm – Karate Advanced
• Karatedo (all levels) on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Karate Intermediate on Thursdays at 6:30pm
• Friday 6:30pm – Karatedo All Levels Self-Defense & Sparring

Private classes are also available by appointment.

Iaido at Kashimon Dojo – Traditional Sword Art

Iaido is taught at Kashimon dojo through the Toyama Ryu sword-drawing techniques under the Toyama Ryu Battodo Association. Our dojo is recognized as the first accredited Toyama Ryu branch in the Americas.

Mastering Japanese Swordsmanship with Iaido

The art emphasizes careful, deliberate movements with the sword. Students also train in Zen Nihon Batto-Do methods, through the ZNBDR, deepening mastery of traditional sword arts.

Iaido Class Times

• Tuesday 6:30pm – Iaido practice
• Wednesday 6:30pm – Beginner Iaido
• Friday 6:30pm – Iaido all levels

Mastering Japanese Swordsmanship – Discipline and Culture

The art of Japanese swordsmanship represents centuries of warrior tradition. At Florida Budokan, this includes the entire practice of traditional sword arts: correct manners, historical techniques, blade cutting drills, and a knowledge of correct timing, spacing, and intent. Students develop fluid, deliberate motion, maintain focus, and copyright classical values.

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
• Cultivating inner calm
• Integrating physical, mental, and spiritual training

Every training session incorporates elements of Budo philosophy through practice, mindfulness, and character development.

Training and Community at the Dojo

The dojo is available half an hour before and after class for individual practice or review with senior students. To ensure Karate a high-quality learning environment, Florida Budokan is available to visitors solely during instructional periods and events.

Community Involvement at Florida Budokan

As a non-profit educational organization, Florida Budokan relies on the generosity and involvement of its members. All students are encouraged to contribute a few volunteer hours each year, helping maintain our dojos, and enhancing the training environment.

Florida Budokan Tuition and Fees

Our tuition is set to support high-quality training and community access.

• Monthly tuition for standard members: $85
• Discounted tuition $75/month for students and veterans
• Additional family member: $50/month
• Annual memberships for Karate, Iaido, Kyudo, and insurance: $65/year (due every March)

Students participate in cleaning and maintenance, reflecting the spirit of Budo.

Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center

Florida Budokan is located within Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center, the U.S.’s largest Japanese-themed arts facility, spanning 20 acres.

The grounds include:
• Dual authentic dojos
• Tatami room for cultural practice and tea rituals
• Art studios & classrooms
• Serene gardens with meditation and water features

This immersive space allows students and visitors to decompress, reflect, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture.

Start Training in Japanese Martial Arts at Florida Budokan

If you feel inspired by traditional Japanese archery, Shotokan-style Karate, Iaido sword practice, traditional swordsmanship, or the broader traditions of Japanese martial culture, Florida Budokan offers a place to practice with structure and guidance. Whether your goal is personal growth, body development, appreciation of Japanese tradition, or inner Karate growth, your journey starts at Florida Budokan.

Visit Florida Budokan – Arching Oaks

???? Arching Oaks Japanese Art & Cultural Center – Florida Budokan
37114 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736

FAQ’s

FAQ 1: What Japanese martial arts does Florida Budokan offer?

Florida Budokan offers classical Japanese martial traditions rooted in classical Budo. Training includes the art of Kyudo and Japanese Archery, Karate and Shotokan Karate, Iaido sword-drawing practice, and Japanese Swordsmanship. All programs emphasize historical legitimacy, proper etiquette, and holistic growth.

FAQ 2: Is previous training required to start?

No prior experience is required. Florida Budokan welcomes new students as well as advanced martial artists. Each discipline offers beginner-friendly classes, and training is delivered in a structured, progressive manner to ensure student safety, proper learning, and consistent progress.

FAQ 3: Why is Kyudo training special at Florida Budokan?

Florida Budokan is home to the sole Kyudo dojo in Florida. Students train in the general style (yosoku) and are officially affiliated with the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Kyudo training emphasizes posture, breathing, formal reigi, and meditative practice, treating archery as a spiritual path rather than a sporting activity.

FAQ 4: Which Karate system is taught at the dojo?

Karate training follows classical Shotokan methodology under recognized organizations including the Kokusai Budoin–International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. Classes focus on kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring), while developing personal discipline, including core martial virtues.

FAQ 5: What is Iaido, and how is Japanese Swordsmanship taught?

The art of Iaido is the Japanese discipline of precise sword-drawing techniques with precision and intent. At Florida Budokan’s Kashimon Dojo, students practice Toyama Ryu sword arts under the Toyama Ryu Iaido Battodo Renmei (TIBDR). Training also includes Batto-do through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Renmei (ZNBDR), providing a comprehensive approach to traditional sword practice.

FAQ 6: Why is Budo important at Florida Budokan?

Japanese Budo philosophy is the guiding principle behind all training at Florida Budokan. It emphasizes moral character, discipline, courtesy, community responsibility, and mind-body-spirit balance. Meditative practice, etiquette, and mutual respect 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 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736, within the Arching Oaks Cultural Center. The dojo is open exclusively during class times, workshops, and scheduled activities. Students may arrive 30 minutes before class and remain up to thirty minutes afterward for self-study or guided review with sempai.