Business Details
42 Years
experience
Traditional Martial Arts Training in Acton, Massachusetts
Doshi-Kai Karate Dojo has been dedicated to teaching traditional martial arts in Acton, Massachusetts since 1984. Founded by Master Nagao Matsuyama, our dojo emphasizes mental and physical discipline through Shotokan Karate, kobudo, and Iaido. Our classes cater to all levels, from beginners to black belts, with a focus on technical excellence and personal growth. We offer structured adult programs, periodic self-defense courses, and specialized weapons training. Our instructors bring decades of experience, including direct mentorship from students of Shotokan's founder.We maintain a non-commercial environment where the art itself takes precedence over promotions or financial incentives. Our training philosophy combines traditional Japanese methods with modern accessibility for students aged 14 and above. We provide flexible payment options with no initiation fees and emphasize community through regular training sessions and special events.
Services
Adult Karate Classes
Self-Defense Courses
Kobudo (Weapons) Training
Iaido/Bojutsu Instruction
Periodic Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of traditional martial arts instruction with direct lineage to Shotokan's founder
- Our non-commercial dojo prioritizes technical excellence over belt promotions
- Classes combine traditional Japanese discipline with modern accessibility for adults
- We provide specialized training in weapons (kobudo) and swordsmanship (Iaido)
- Flexible monthly payment options with no initiation fees
Services
Adult Karate Classes
Structured Shotokan Karate classes for adults aged 14+ with all experience levels. Focus on Kihon (basics), Kata (forms), and Kumite (sparring) in a traditional dojo environment. Classes emphasize mental discipline and technical excellence through 2-hour sessions twice weekly.
Kobudo Training
Traditional Okinawan weapons training offered periodically. Includes Bo (staff) practice monthly and other classical weapons. Designed to enhance coordination, focus, and understanding of traditional martial arts weaponry through hands-on instruction.
Iaido Instruction
Japanese swordsmanship training focusing on precise, controlled movements. Teaches proper katana handling, cutting techniques, and meditative aspects of Iaido. Available to students with appropriate martial arts experience.
Self-Defense Courses
Periodic self-defense programs teaching practical techniques for real-world situations. Emphasizes situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and effective countermeasures. Open to all experience levels with no prior martial arts background required.
Black Belt Preparation
Specialized training for students pursuing black belt certification. Includes advanced technique refinement, kata mastery, and sparring development. Structured grading system evaluates technical proficiency and martial arts philosophy understanding.
People
Nagao Matsuyama
Chief Instructor
Founder of Doshi-Kai Karate Dojo in 1984 with over 40 years of martial arts experience. Direct student of Master Watanabe, who trained under Shotokan founder Gichin Funakoshi. Specializes in blending traditional Shotokan techniques with fluid movement principles.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Shotokan Karate, kobudo (Okinawan weapons), and Iaido (Japanese swordsmanship) with traditional instruction methods.
Are classes available for beginners?
Yes, all adult classes are open to students of all experience levels, including complete beginners with no prior martial arts background.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothing. Traditional karate uniforms (gi) are recommended but not required for initial classes.
How often are classes held?
Adult classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-8 PM, with Saturday sessions from 9-10:45 AM. Special Bo practice occurs monthly.
What payment options are available?
Tuition is paid monthly with discounts for 6 or 12-month prepayments. No initiation fees required. Payments handled directly through instructors.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, family discount options are available. Contact Chesley Chen for specific details and payment arrangements.
