Welcome to Nakashima Dojo Judo Club
Traditional Kodokan Judo for fitness, safety, and character development—since 1968
Dedicated to fitness, safety, discipline, and respect through traditional Kodokan Judo for all ages.
About Nakashima Dojo Judo Club
Nakashima Dojo was started way back in 1968 by a group of Blackbelts and interested parents. The original group that started the club were Robert Nakashima (5 dan-Head Instructor), Frank Nakashima(3 dan), Gary Nakashima(2 dan), Rick Nakashima (2 dan), Bob Fedoruk (4 dan), Shoji Yamazaki (3 dan), Bob Long (President) and Leo Holthe. NAKASHIMA DOJO was named after Yasumatsu Nakashima in recognition for the many years that he promoted and supported Judo in Vancouver.
Why Practice Judo at Nakashima Dojo
Physical Fitness & Conditioning
Practicing judo twice a week builds overall physical fitness, strength, and conditioning in a structured and supportive environment.
Balance & Safe Falling
Balance and safe falling are fundamental to judo. Students learn how to fall properly, helping reduce the risk of serious injury both on and off the mat.
Confidence & Anti-Bullying
For children who lack self-confidence or experience bullying, judo naturally develops self-esteem. As students progress, confidence grows organically through skill, discipline, and perseverance.
Fun, Safe, and Disciplined Practice
Judo is a fun and safe sport. Students learn throwing techniques, hold-downs, and controlled submissions, always practiced with discipline and respect to prevent injury.
Respect, Discipline & Values
Judo teaches self-discipline and respect for instructors and fellow students. These values extend beyond the dojo into everyday life.
Kodokan Judo Philosophy
Developed in Japan in 1882 by Jigoro Kano, judo is practiced worldwide in a safe and structured way, guided by the philosophy of maximum efficiency and mutual welfare and benefit.
Programs Overview
Junior
Ages 6 to 8
- Focus on balance
- coordination
- safe falling
- build confidence
Youth
Ages 9 to 15
- Build technique
- self confidence
- discipline
- respect
Adult
Ages 16 and up
- Fitness
- conditioning
- traditional judo practice
- proficiency
Ready to Try Judo?
We welcome new students of all experience levels to try a free class and experience judo at Nakashima Dojo.
