Kyudo (Japanese Archery), along with Japanese Archery, Karate, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, Japanese Swordsmanship, and the collective martial culture of Budo, forms the heart of training at FLORIDA BUDOKAN our Florida dojos is a nonprofit dojo offering authentic Japanese martial arts, located at the Arching Oaks Japanese Cultural Center in Eustis, Florida.
At our two dojos, we make a pledge: Offering genuine Japanese martial arts in a structured and secure environment. With your effort and focus, we provide guidance, encouragement, and a supportive dojo.
Kyudo at Florida Budokan – Traditional Japanese Archery
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) is among Japan’s most traditional archery arts. At Florida Budokan, students train in the general style (yosoku) under the official membership of the Dai Nippon Kyudokai. Our Seibukan Kyudojo is distinctive—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, calmness, and focus. Unlike Western-style archery, Kyudo views each release as a reflection of inner harmony.
Kyudo Lesson Times
• Sundays at 2pm – Kyudo All Levels
• 6:30pm Thursdays – Beginner Kyudo
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 the Florida Budokan organization is instructed via classical Shotokan Karate practice, under the guidance of the IMAF (International Martial Arts Federation) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Karate Association of Japan. These powerful affiliations tie practitioners to classical Japanese masters, including Tokugawa Shogunate descendants.
Shotokan Karate for Body, Spirit, and Character
classical Shotokan training emphasizes fundamental techniques, kata (forms), and partner practice. Classes combine physical fitness with personal development—respect, perseverance, humility, and courage.
Karatedo Lesson Schedule
• Mondays 6:30pm – Karate Advanced
• Karatedo (all levels) on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Thursdays 6:30pm – Karate Intermediate
• Karatedo All – Self Defense/Kumite on Fridays at 6:30pm
One-on-one instruction available by schedule.
Iaido at Kashimon Dojo – Traditional Sword Art
the art of Iaido is instructed at Florida Budokan’s Kashimon Dojo through the Toyama Ryu Iaido lineage under the TIBDR. Our dojo is recognized as the first accredited Toyama Ryu branch in the Americas.
Iaido – Precision and Control
The art focuses on exact techniques for drawing, striking, and sheathing. Students also train in Batto-do, through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Association, enhancing knowledge of classical sword techniques.
Iaido Lesson Schedule
• Tuesday 6:30pm – Iaido practice
• Wednesday 6:30pm – Beginner Iaido
• Fridays 6:30pm – Iaido All
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: proper etiquette, time-honored sword movements, cutting practice (tameshigiri), and a knowledge of correct timing, spacing, and intent. Students Iaido learn how to move with centered awareness, maintain focus, and copyright classical values.
Budo – Philosophy and Practice
The collective martial spirit is the unifying philosophy behind all these disciplines, and it is taught through every class.
Budo emphasizes:
• Virtuous behavior
• Responsibility to one’s community
• Developing mental balance
• Harmonizing body, mind, and spirit
Every training session incorporates elements of Budo philosophy through practice, mindfulness, and character development.
Dojo Operations & Community Expectations
The dojo is open 30 minutes before and after every class for self-study or guided review with sempai. To preserve authenticity and quality instruction, Florida Budokan is open to the public only during scheduled training hours, workshops, and events.
Community Involvement at Florida Budokan
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, Florida Budokan relies on the generosity and involvement of its members. All students are encouraged to contribute a few volunteer hours each year, assisting with upkeep and programs, and serving the community.
Florida Budokan Tuition and Fees
Our tuition is designed to be affordable while supporting quality instruction.
• $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
Dojo cleaning (soji) and upkeep (samu) are expected responsibilities, practicing discipline and responsibility.
Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center
Florida Budokan is housed inside Arching Oaks Japanese Culture Center, the U.S.’s largest Japanese-themed arts facility, spanning twenty acres.
The grounds include:
• Dual authentic dojos
• Tatami room for tea & incense
• Art studios & classrooms
• Meditation gardens and water features for reflection
This cultural retreat allows students and visitors to decompress, reflect, and experience traditional Japanese arts firsthand.
Start Training in Japanese Martial Arts at Florida Budokan
If you feel drawn to Kyudo, Shotokan Karate, Iaido sword practice, Kenjutsu and Japanese sword arts, or the broader traditions of classical Budo, Florida Karate 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 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), traditional Shotokan-style Karate, Iaido sword-drawing practice, and classical Japanese sword arts. All programs emphasize authentic lineage, proper etiquette, and personal 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 beginner-friendly classes, and training is delivered in a structured, step-by-step manner to ensure student safety, clear understanding, 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 body alignment, 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, formal patterns, 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 Japanese Swordsmanship.
FAQ 6: What role does Budo play in classes?
Budo is the guiding principle behind all training at Florida Budokan. It emphasizes moral character, self-control, courtesy, community responsibility, and mind-body-spirit balance. Zen meditation, traditional manners, and mutual respect are integrated into every training session at the dojo.
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 Japanese Art and Cultural Center. The dojo is open exclusively during class times, special programs, and events. Students may arrive half an hour early and remain 30 minutes after class for self-study or assistance with sempai.