Choyokan Kendo Dojo
About
Choyokan Kendo Dojo in Chicago offers training in both MMA and karate disciplines, providing a comprehensive martial arts experience for practitioners of all levels. The dojo is led by a highly experienced team of instructors, including Head Instructor Ken Sakamoto (Kyoshi 7th Dan) and instructors like Keisuke Hori, Zia Uddin, and Tomohiko Hayashi (all holding Renshi ranks), along with Instructor Emeritus Kenichi Okada and founder Yutaka Miyazaki. This depth of expertise ensures students receive authentic, high quality instruction in traditional Japanese martial arts techniques and principles. Members consistently praise the exceptional coaching quality and welcoming environment, with one reviewer calling it their favorite place to practice Kendo in the entire Midwest region. The dojo maintains a serious training atmosphere while remaining accessible to beginners, with instructors who are both technically skilled and supportive of each student's development. Reviewers specifically highlight the great instructors and overall positive training experience that keeps members returning. The combination of traditional martial arts values with practical MMA applications creates a unique training environment that appeals to both competitive athletes and those seeking personal development through martial arts practice.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the exceptional quality of instruction, describing the dojo as amazing with great instructors who create an outstanding training environment. Reviewers specifically highlight this as their favorite place to practice Kendo in the Midwest, emphasizing the overall positive experience. The coaching receives particular commendation, with members noting the instructors' expertise and the welcoming atmosphere that makes training enjoyable and effective. No concerns are mentioned in the available reviews, with all feedback being overwhelmingly positive about the training experience.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (2)
Shunsuke Akagi
6 months ago
great dojo
Wilson Wang
a year ago
Amazing dojo with great instructors. My favorite place to practice Kendo in Midwest hands down
paymentsMembership
$60/mo
Contact
3900 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 7:30 – 9:30 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 7:30 – 9:30 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Keisuke Hori
Instructor
Renshi 6th Dan
Kenichi Okada
Instructor Emeritus
Renshi 6th Dan
Yutaka Miyazaki
Founder
Founded Choyokan Kendo Dojo in 1979. Returned to Japan approximately 30 years ago.
Sachio Maeda
Past Head Instructor
Head instructor from after Miyazaki Sensei's departure until his passing in 2010.
Ken Sakamoto
Head Instructor
Kyoshi 7th Dan
Chief Instructor of Choyokan, one of the most senior sensei in the Midwest Kendo Federation.
Zia Uddin
Instructor
Renshi 7th Dan
Mark Sasaki
Instructor
5th Dan
Tomohiko Hayashi
Instructor
Renshi 7th Dan