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 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736.
At our two dojos, we make a commitment: Authentic Japanese martial arts in a safe, professional, and systematic setting. Students provide dedication; we provide instruction, support, and a place to grow.
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) – The Way of the Bow at Florida Budokan
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) is among Japan’s most traditional archery arts. At Florida Budokan, students study traditional Kyudo techniques under the official membership of the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Our training hall is the only one of its kind—it is the sole Kyudo dojo in Florida, built to preserve and share the enduring practices of Kyudo.
Practicing Japanese Archery with Awareness
Japanese Archery emphasizes posture, breathing, etiquette, and a mindful practice to action. Every class incorporates zazen-style meditation, helping practitioners cultivate mindfulness, inner calm, and clarity. Unlike modern archery, Kyudo views each release as a reflection of inner harmony.
Kyudo Lesson Times
• 2pm Sundays – Kyudo (all levels)
• Thursdays at 6:30pm – Kyudo Beginners
Students are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early and may remain for extra practice after class under the guidance of instructors.
Makoto Dojo: Karate and Shotokan Karate – Classic Striking Arts
Karatedo at our Florida dojo is delivered using authentic Shotokan training techniques, supported by the Kokusai Budoin-International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. These strong lineages tie practitioners to classical Japanese masters, including leadership descendants of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
Developing Character through Shotokan Karate
classical Shotokan training emphasizes basic movements, prearranged sequences, and controlled sparring. Classes blend physical conditioning with the deeper virtues of martial character—self-control, humility, perseverance, and courage.
Karate Class Schedule
• 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
the art of Iaido is taught at Kashimon dojo through the tradition of Toyama Ryu Iaido under the Toyama Ryu Iaido Battodo Renmei (TIBDR). Our dojo is distinguished as the first official Toyama Ryu Iaido branch outside Japan.
Mastering Japanese Swordsmanship with Iaido
The art focuses on exact techniques for drawing, striking, and sheathing. Students also train in Batto-do, through the ZNBDR, expanding their understanding of Japanese Swordsmanship.
Iaido Lesson Schedule
• Tuesday 6:30pm – Iaido practice
• Wednesday 6:30pm – Beginner Iaido
• Friday 6:30pm – Iaido all levels
Japanese Swordsmanship – Precision, Discipline & Cultural Heritage
Japanese Swordsmanship represents a long history of samurai practice. At Florida Budokan, this includes the full spectrum of techniques: correct manners, historical techniques, tameshigiri exercises, and a knowledge of correct timing, spacing, and intent. Students learn how to move with centered awareness, maintain focus, and respect cultural traditions.
The Spirit of Budo in Japanese Martial Arts
Budo is the guiding spirit behind all these disciplines, and it is central to training at Florida Budokan.
Budo emphasizes:
• Ethical conduct
• Duty to others
• Cultivating inner calm
• Integrating physical, mental, and spiritual training
Every training session incorporates elements of Budo philosophy through structured practice, meditation, and mutual respect.
Dojo Operations & Community Expectations
The dojo is open 30 minutes before and Shotokan Karate after every class for self-study or guided review with sempai. To ensure a high-quality learning environment, Florida Budokan is available to visitors solely during instructional periods and events.
Supporting the Dojo & Community
As a educational nonprofit, Florida Budokan thrives on volunteer participation. All students are asked to assist with events or dojo maintenance annually, helping maintain our dojos, and supporting fellow students.
Tuition and Membership Information
Our tuition is set to support high-quality training and community access.
• Monthly tuition for standard members: $85
• Veterans & Students (Middle, High, College): $75/month
• $50 per month for each extra family member
• Membership & insurance for all programs: $65 annually, due March
Dojo cleaning (soji) and upkeep (samu) are expected responsibilities, practicing discipline and responsibility.
Florida Budokan at Arching Oaks Cultural Center
Florida Budokan is located within Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center, the largest zoned Japanese cultural center in the United States, spanning 20 acres.
The grounds include:
• Two traditional Japanese dojos
• Tatami room for tea & incense
• Creative studios and learning classrooms
• Serene gardens with meditation and water features
This cultural retreat allows students and visitors to decompress, reflect, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture.
Begin Your Journey in Kyudo, Karate, Iaido & Budo
If you feel called to practice traditional Japanese archery, Shotokan-style Karate, the art of Japanese sword-drawing, 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 self-mastery, physical fitness, learning authentic Japanese arts, or personal transformation, your path begins here.
Our Address and Cultural Center
???? Arching Oaks Japanese Art & Cultural Center – Florida Budokan
37114 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736
FAQ’s
FAQ 1: What martial arts are taught at Florida Budokan?
Florida Budokan offers traditional Japanese martial arts rooted in classical Budo. Training includes Kyudo (Japanese Archery), Karate and Shotokan Karate, Iaido sword-drawing practice, and classical Japanese sword arts. All programs emphasize historical legitimacy, proper etiquette, and personal development.
FAQ 2: Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Florida Budokan welcomes complete beginners 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: Why is Kyudo training special at Florida Budokan?
Florida Budokan is home to the only Kyudo Japanese Archery dojo in the State of Florida. Students train in the Yosoku style of Kyudo and are officially affiliated with the Great Japan Kyudo Federation. Kyudo training emphasizes posture, breathing, formal reigi, and Zen meditation, treating archery as a mindful discipline rather than a sporting activity.
FAQ 4: Which Karate system is taught at the dojo?
Karate training follows traditional Shotokan Karate under recognized organizations including the Kokusai Budoin–International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) and the GIMA-HA Japan. Classes focus on kihon (basics), formal patterns, and kumite (sparring), while developing strong martial character, including core martial virtues.
FAQ 5: How does Florida Budokan teach sword arts?
Iaido is the Japanese discipline of precise sword-drawing techniques with control 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 methods through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Renmei (ZNBDR), providing a well-rounded foundation to traditional sword practice.
FAQ 6: How does Budo philosophy influence training?
Japanese Budo philosophy is the ethical and philosophical foundation behind all training at Florida Budokan. It emphasizes ethical conduct, discipline, respect, service to others, and harmony between body, mind, and spirit. Meditative practice, etiquette, and supportive training are integrated into every Kyudo, Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class.
FAQ 7: When can visitors attend the dojo?
Florida Budokan is located at 37114 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736, within the Arching Oaks Cultural Center. The dojo is open only during scheduled training hours, special programs, and scheduled activities. Students may arrive 30 minutes before class and remain up to thirty minutes afterward for self-study or guided review with senior students.