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 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 at Florida Budokan – Traditional Japanese Archery
Kyudo, the traditional Japanese art of archery is a historic and respected Japanese martial art. At Florida Budokan, students study traditional Kyudo techniques under the official membership of the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Our Kyudo dojo is unique—it is the one and only Kyudo training hall in Florida, designed for safeguarding and teaching the timeless teachings of Kyudo.
Kyudo – Mindful Archery Practice
Japanese Archery emphasizes proper form, breathing, formal respect, and a calm-centered mindset to action. Every class incorporates zazen-style meditation, helping practitioners cultivate awareness, tranquility, and focus. Unlike contemporary archery, Kyudo views each release as a reflection of inner harmony.
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) Classes
• Sundays at 2pm – Kyudo All Levels
• 6:30pm Thursdays – Beginner Kyudo
Students are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early and may practice additional techniques after class under the guidance of senior students.
Traditional Karate & Shotokan Karate at Makoto Dojo
Karatedo at our Florida dojo is delivered using authentic Shotokan training techniques, supported by the IMAF (International Martial Arts Federation) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. These prestigious connections connect our students directly to authentic lineages, including Tokugawa Shogunate descendants.
Developing Character through Shotokan Karate
Shotokan-style Karate training emphasizes fundamental techniques, prearranged sequences, and partner practice. Classes integrate strength training with character building—self-control, humility, perseverance, and courage.
Karatedo Lesson Schedule
• Monday 6:30pm – Advanced Karate
• Karatedo (all levels) on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Thursday 6:30pm – Intermediate Karate
• Fridays 6:30pm – Karatedo All – Self-Defense/Kumite
One-on-one instruction available by schedule.
Iaido – Japanese Sword-Drawing Art at Kashimon Dojo
Japanese sword-drawing art is practiced at the Kashimon Dojo of Florida Budokan through the Toyama Ryu Iaido lineage under the Toyama Ryu Battodo Association. Our dojo is recognized as the first accredited Toyama Ryu branch in the Americas.
Japanese Swordsmanship Through Iaido
The art emphasizes careful, deliberate movements with the sword. Students also train in Batto-do, through the ZNBDR, deepening mastery of traditional sword arts.
Iaido Lesson Schedule
• Iaido on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Wednesdays 6:30pm – Iaido Beginners
• Fridays 6:30pm – Iaido All
Traditional Japanese Swordsmanship – Skills and Heritage
The art of Japanese swordsmanship represents a long history of samurai practice. At Florida Budokan, this includes the full spectrum of techniques: proper etiquette, time-honored sword movements, cutting practice (tameshigiri), and a knowledge of correct timing, spacing, and intent. Students practice moving with mental stillness, cultivate mental calm, and respect cultural traditions.
The Spirit of Budo in Japanese Martial Arts
Budo is the guiding spirit behind all these disciplines, and it is embedded in our instruction.
Budo emphasizes:
• Ethical conduct
• Duty to others
• Growing centered awareness
• Harmonizing body, mind, and spirit
Every training session reflects the spirit of Budo through etiquette, meditation, and supportive training dynamics.
Dojo Operations & Community Expectations
The dojo is accessible 30 minutes prior and post-class for personal training or assistance from instructors. To preserve authenticity and quality instruction, Florida Budokan is accessible only during classes, workshops, and special programs.
Community Involvement at Florida Budokan
As a non-profit educational organization, Florida Budokan relies on the generosity and involvement of its members. All students are asked to assist with events or dojo maintenance annually, helping maintain our dojos, and supporting fellow students.
Membership & Tuition Details
Our tuition is set to support high-quality training and community access.
• $85 per month – regular membership
• Discounted tuition $75/month for students and veterans
• Family member rate: $50/month
• Membership & insurance for all programs: $65 annually, due March
Students participate in cleaning and maintenance, reflecting the spirit of Budo.
Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center
Florida Budokan is situated at Arching Oaks, the premier Japanese cultural center, the largest zoned Japanese cultural center in the United States, spanning twenty acres.
The grounds include:
• Two traditional Japanese dojos
• Tatami room for cultural practice and tea rituals
• Art studios & classrooms
• Japanese meditation & water garden
This sanctuary allows students and visitors to relax and unwind, reflect, and experience traditional Japanese arts firsthand.
Begin Your Journey in Kyudo, Karate, Iaido & Budo
If you feel drawn to traditional Japanese archery, classical Karate, the art of Japanese sword-drawing, traditional swordsmanship, or the broader traditions of classical Budo, Florida Budokan offers a place Karate to develop your skills in a traditional setting. Whether your goal is personal growth, body development, learning authentic Japanese arts, or inner growth, your journey starts at Florida Budokan.
Visit Florida Budokan – Arching Oaks
???? Arching Oaks Japanese Art & Cultural Center – Florida Budokan
37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736
FAQ’s
FAQ 1: Which disciplines can I study at Florida Budokan?
Florida Budokan offers traditional Japanese martial arts rooted in classical Budo. Training includes Kyudo (Japanese Archery), traditional Shotokan-style Karate, Iaido (Japanese sword-drawing art), and classical Japanese sword arts. All programs emphasize historical legitimacy, traditional dojo conduct, and holistic growth.
FAQ 2: Is previous training required to start?
Previous martial arts experience is not necessary. Florida Budokan welcomes complete beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Each discipline offers introductory instruction, and training is delivered in a systematic, progressive manner to ensure safety, proper learning, 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 body alignment, breathing, formal reigi, and meditative practice, treating archery as a mindful discipline rather than a sporting activity.
FAQ 4: Is Shotokan Karate taught at Florida Budokan?
Karate training follows traditional Shotokan Karate under recognized organizations including the Kokusai Budoin–International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) and the GIMA-HA Japan. Classes focus on kihon (basics), kata (forms), and controlled partner training, while developing strong martial character, including core martial virtues.
FAQ 5: What sword training is available at Florida Budokan?
Iaido is the Japanese discipline of precise sword-drawing techniques with control and intent. At Florida Budokan’s Iaido dojo, students practice Toyama Ryu Iaido under the TIBDR. Training also includes Batto-do methods through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Renmei (ZNBDR), providing a well-rounded foundation 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, respect, 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, workshops, and events. Students may Iaido arrive half an hour early and remain 30 minutes after class for self-study or assistance with sempai.