The Way of Kyudo and Budo

Wiki Article

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 FLORIDA BUDOKAN is a non-profit, traditional Japanese martial arts organization, located at 37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736.

At our two dojos, we make a simple promise: Authentic Japanese martial arts in a safe, professional, and systematic setting. You bring commitment and hard work—we bring inspiration, guidance, and a place to thrive.

Kyudo (Japanese Archery) – The Way of the Bow at Florida Budokan

Kyudo, the traditional Japanese art of archery is a historic and respected Japanese martial art. At Florida Budokan, students train in the general style (yosoku) under the official membership of the Great Japan Kyudo Federation. Our training hall is distinctive—it is the one and only Kyudo training hall in Florida, designed for safeguarding and teaching the timeless teachings of the Japanese way of the bow.

Kyudo – Mindful Archery Practice

the art of Japanese archery emphasizes body alignment, breath discipline, reigi, and a calm-centered mindset to action. Every class incorporates Zen meditation, helping practitioners cultivate presence, inner calm, and mental clarity. Unlike modern archery, Kyudo views each release as a manifestation of mental balance.

Kyudo Lesson Times

• 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

Karatedo at our Florida dojo is taught through traditional Shotokan Karate methods, supported by the Kokusai Budoin organization and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Karate Association of Japan. These strong lineages link students to historical martial heritage, including leadership descendants of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Developing Character through Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate training emphasizes fundamental techniques, prearranged sequences, and controlled sparring. Classes integrate strength training with character building—honor, patience, discipline, and bravery.

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

Private classes are also available by appointment.

Kashimon Dojo: Iaido – The Art of Japanese Sword Drawing

Japanese sword-drawing art is practiced at the Kashimon Dojo of Florida Budokan through the Toyama Ryu Iaido lineage under the Toyama Ryu Iaido Battodo Renmei (TIBDR). Our dojo is honored as the first official Toyama Ryu Iai-Battodo Renmei branch in the Americas.

Mastering Japanese Swordsmanship with Iaido

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 Training Schedule

• Tuesdays 6:30pm – Iaido
• Iaido for beginners on Wednesdays at 6:30pm
• Fridays 6:30pm – Iaido All

Mastering Japanese Swordsmanship – Discipline and Culture

Kenjutsu and related sword arts represents centuries of warrior tradition. 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 practice moving with mental stillness, strengthen concentration, and respect cultural traditions.

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
• Responsibility to one’s community
• Developing mental balance
• Balancing mind, body, and soul

Every Kyudo, Karate, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class teaches the principles of Budo through structured practice, meditation, and mutual respect.

Dojo Operations & Community Expectations

The dojo is accessible 30 minutes prior and post-class for personal training or assistance from instructors. To ensure a high-quality learning environment, Florida Budokan is accessible only during classes, workshops, and special programs.

Volunteer Spirit

As a educational nonprofit, Florida Budokan relies on the generosity and involvement of its members. All students are asked to assist with events or dojo maintenance annually, assisting with upkeep and programs, and enhancing the training environment.

Membership & Tuition Details

Our tuition is designed to be affordable while supporting quality instruction.

• $85 per month – regular membership
• $75 per month – students and veterans
• Family member rate: $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 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, reconnect, and experience traditional Japanese arts firsthand.

Begin Your Journey in Kyudo, Karate, Iaido & Budo

If you feel called to practice traditional Japanese archery, Shotokan 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 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 traditional Budo principles. Training includes the art of Kyudo and Japanese Archery, traditional Shotokan-style Karate, Iaido sword-drawing practice, and Japanese Swordsmanship. All programs emphasize authentic lineage, proper etiquette, and holistic growth.

FAQ 2: Can beginners join Florida Budokan?

Beginners are welcome. Florida Budokan welcomes complete beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Each discipline offers beginner-friendly classes, and training is delivered in a systematic, step-by-step manner to ensure safety, clear understanding, and consistent progress.

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

Florida Budokan is home to the only Kyudo dojo in the State of Florida. Students train in the general style (yosoku) 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 IMAF and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. Classes focus on kihon (basics), 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 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, 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 Shotokan Karate 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, workshops, and events. Students may arrive half an hour early and remain 30 minutes after class for individual practice or assistance with senior students.

Report this wiki page