Budokan Judo Dojo
About
Budokan Judo Dojo offers comprehensive martial arts training in judo, karate, and MMA within Seattle's Japanese Cultural Center. The gym features an extensive roster of experienced instructors, including multiple high-ranking black belts with specialized credentials such as IJF referees and BJJ practitioners. Classes are thoughtfully structured with separate junior and adult sessions, ensuring age-appropriate instruction from coaches like John Schaedler (7th degree black belt) for juniors and Bert Mackey (7th degree black belt with BJJ background) for adults. The facility provides a welcoming environment where members can train alongside cultural activities at the center.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members describe Budokan as the best judo place in Seattle, praising its beginner-friendly approach that also supports competitive training. They highlight the welcoming community where everyone from children to adults feels included, with specific appreciation for the helpful and encouraging atmosphere in adult classes. Reviewers note the cultural opportunity of training with seminal figures in Washington state judo history, and several mention the professional black belt instructors who create an inviting space. No concerns are mentioned in the reviews.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Jamie King
2 years ago
Great crew at the adult class tue/thur night. I'm an ex powerlifter with some old injuries learning something new and everyone is really helpful and encouraging. Lots of cool stuff going on at the Japanese cultural center where the classes are held as well.
Arthur Ruff
6 years ago
If you are looking to learn Judo at Seattle. Budokan is what you are looking for. Not only beginner friendly but also competitive.
Joseph Brimhall
a year ago
It is a cultural opportunity to experience the instruction and randori in this seminal figure in the washington state judo history. You cannot do better.
John Sordetto
3 years ago
Budokan is the best judo place in Seattle. Classes for people from 5 to 50 years old and friendly professional black belts.
Charles Janovick
2 years ago
My daughter just started and already feels part of the community. They create a wonderful inviting space.
Contact
1414 S Weller St Suite C, Seattle, WA 98144, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Thursday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Doug Uyeda
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan)
Mike Kneip
Judo Instructor (Adults)
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan)
John Schaedler
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
7th Degree Black Belt (Shichidan)
Victor Yagi
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan)
Cesar Paez
Judo Instructor (Adults)
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan)
Alvin Terada
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
7th Degree Black Belt (Shichidan)
Bert Mackey
Judo Instructor (Adults)
7th Degree Black Belt (Shichidan), BJJ Blue Belt
Calvin Terada
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
5th Degree Black Belt (Godan), IJF Referee Level B
Mark Graham
Judo Instructor (Adults)
5th Degree Black Belt (Godan)
Krista Tsutsui Steele
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan)
Gary Idleburg
Judo Instructor (Adults)
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan), IJF Referee
Mitsuko Terada
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan)
Dave Christianson
Judo Instructor (Adults)
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan), BJJ Purple Belt
Marvin Terada
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan)
Grant Nakashima
Judo Instructor (Adults)
3rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan), BJJ Brown Belt
Tappy Andrews
Judo Instructor (Juniors & Adults)
2nd Degree Black Belt (Nidan), BJJ Purple Belt
Si Barghelame
Judo Instructor (Adults)
3rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan)
Steven Shigaya
Judo Instructor (Juniors)
2nd Degree Black Belt (Nidan)
Taylan Yuasa
Judo Instructor (Adults)
2nd Degree Black Belt (Nidan), BJJ Purple Belt
Kazuki Suzuki
Judo Instructor (Juniors & Adults)
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan), IJF Referee
Shawn Wills
Judo Instructor (Adults)
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan), IJF Referee