Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Training Center in Costa Mesa
Bunasawa Kai Judo has been a premier martial arts institution since 1972, founded by Nori Bunasawa, a 9th-dan judo master and the youngest grandmaster in California. Our dojo provides expert instruction in Judo, Jiu Jitsu, MMA, and Self-Defense for all ages, fostering growth and technical proficiency in a supportive environment. Located at Higashi Honganji Temple in Costa Mesa and offering satellite programs in Temecula, we emphasize personalized development tailored to each members abilities and aspirations. With over 45 years of teaching experience, Sensei Bunasawa and our certified instructors ensure a rigorous curriculum rooted in traditional and modern techniques. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in testimonials praising our tailored programs, championship-level coaching, and welcoming community.We offer structured belt progression systems, competitive training for martial artists, and a holistic approach to physical and mental discipline. Our Jukkendo program, pioneered by Sensei Bunasawa, combines Kano Judo with Maeda-style MMA for comprehensive self-defense and combat applications. Through weekly classes, seminars, and special events, we empower members to achieve measurable progress and mastery of techniques. Our philosophy prioritizes continuous improvement over competition, aligning with Kan Jigors principle of striving to be better than yesterday. As a respected authority in martial arts, we maintain transparent communication and accessible support for all members.
Services
Junior Judo
Senior Judo
Jukkendo
MMA Training
Self-Defense
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of teaching experience led by a 9th-dan judo master.
- Our programs are tailored to individual abilities and competitive aspirations.
- We offer championship-level coaching in Judo, MMA, and Self-Defense.
- Our kids program is recognized as top-notch in Orange County.
- We combine traditional Judo with innovative Jukkendo MMA techniques.
What people say
Best Judo School
Youngest 9th Dan
Top notch program
Highly recommended
Legendary Kimura connection
Services
Junior Judo
Structured Judo instruction for ages 5-15 focusing on foundational techniques, discipline, and physical development. Our curriculum emphasizes balance, coordination, and safe sparring in a supportive environment. Classes prepare students for competitive opportunities while prioritizing personal growth and confidence building.
Senior Judo
Comprehensive Judo program for ages 16+ covering Nage-Waza, Ne-Waza, and competitive strategies. Designed for both beginners and experienced practitioners with technical refinement and belt progression pathways. Includes specialized training in throws, pins, and submissions for tournament preparation.
Jukkendo
Hybrid martial arts system blending Kano Judo with Maeda-style MMA techniques. Offers practical self-defense applications through integrated striking, grappling, and submission methods. Suitable for martial artists seeking versatile combat skills applicable across multiple fighting disciplines.
Belt Certification
Structured belt advancement program with clear requirements for each level from 6th kyu to Shodan black belt. Involves technical demonstrations, written exams, and mastery of Ukemi breakfall techniques. Formal assessments ensure measurable progress in both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
Self-Defense
Practical self-defense instruction focused on real-world scenarios and situational awareness. Combines Judo throwing techniques with Jukkendo's MMA applications for effective personal protection. Emphasizes de-escalation strategies and efficient counterattacks for various threat levels.
People
Nori Bunasawa
Head Instructor
9th-dan judo master and founder of Jukkendo martial arts system. Over 45 years teaching experience with championship pedigree as former All Japan champion and U.S. World Team coach.
Vanderlip
Assistant Instructor
6th dan ranked judo specialist with expertise in tournament preparation and advanced technique instruction. Certified to lead classes and support student development at all skill levels.
Questions
Where is the Dojo located?
In Costa Mesa at Higashi Honganji Temple, 254 Victoria St, near the 55 Freeway.
What are class schedules?
Tuesday & Friday 18:00-21:00 in Costa Mesa, Monday & Wednesday 19:00-21:00 in Temecula.
What equipment is needed?
Judo gi, pants, and belt required. Lender gis available for first week trial members.
How much are classes?
Monthly membership subscription costs $105, covering all classes and events.
What programs are offered?
Junior/Adult Judo, Jukkendo mixed martial arts, belt certification, and self-defense training.
