Honbu Dojo
About
Honbu Dojo in Los Angeles offers comprehensive training in mixed martial arts and karate, with a particular specialization in Japanese sword arts through its Shinkendo program. The gym is led by internationally recognized masters, including Soke Obata Yukishiro of the International Shinkendo Federation and Founder Toshishiro Obata, the creator of Shinkendo and a master of multiple Japanese martial arts. This lineage provides students with authentic, traditional instruction rooted in decades of expertise.
Members describe a welcoming and personalized training environment where even returning students after long absences are recognized and accommodated. Reviews highlight experiences where walk ins were immediately integrated into training sessions, including sparring opportunities with advanced students regardless of size or age differences. The coaching style emphasizes practical skill development, with students noting they could effectively apply techniques they hadn't practiced since childhood.
The gym's approach combines disciplined traditional martial arts training with accessible instruction suitable for various skill levels. Members appreciate the opportunity to train directly under masters while benefiting from a supportive community atmosphere that encourages growth and skill refinement through hands on practice.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members describe a welcoming environment where they feel immediately recognized and integrated into training, even after long absences. They praise the personalized attention from instructors and the opportunity to spar with advanced students regardless of physical differences. Reviewers specifically mention positive experiences with the sensei and note that their previous training, even from childhood, remained effective. The overall sentiment reflects appreciation for both the technical instruction and the inclusive atmosphere.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (1)
Michial Elam
5 years ago
In the late 80's honbu dojo was teaching people the way of the sword, I walked in off the street and recognized the man who taught me as a child in japan. It was amazing to just walk in and be recognized by sensei, who allowed me to spar with the top student in that particular class, a man easily 50 lbs and 20 years my senior. I hunt held a sword since I was 12yrx old, yet I was able ty o easily defeat my lpp
Contact
2801 East 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Thursday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Obata Yukishiro
Soke (Head of School)
Soke of the International Shinkendo Federation
Leads seminars and instruction in Shinkendo, Toyama-Ryū Battōdō, and Bōjutsu at the Honbu Dojo.
Toshishiro Obata
Founder and Headmaster
Creator of Shinkendo, Master of multiple Japanese martial arts
Studied and mastered many different schools of Budo in Japan. Created Shinkendo in 1990. Leads the International Shinkendo Federation.