Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Judo Training Destination in Seattle
Since 1968, Budokan Judo Dojo has been dedicated to teaching Japanese-style competition-focused Judo in Seattle. Our mission is to promote physical fitness, self-defense, and core values inherent in the martial art. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we offer structured programs for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors. Our instructors, certified by USA Judo and the United States Judo Federation, bring decades of competitive and coaching experience. We host national and international tournaments, summer camps, and seminars with guest instructors, fostering a community that has produced numerous champions.Our affiliation with the Northwest Yudanshakai and the International Judo Federation underscores our commitment to excellence. Through rigorous training in tachiwaza (standing techniques) and newaza (ground fighting), we prepare judokas for competitive success and personal growth. Our facility, located at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington, serves as a hub for skill development, camaraderie, and the preservation of Judo's traditional principles.
Services
Judo Classes
Summer Camps
Tournaments
Adult Training
Seminars
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with decades of competitive experience
- Offers national/international tournament preparation programs
- Hosts summer camps with guest instructors from around the world
- 50+ year history of producing championship-level judokas
- Official affiliation with Northwest Yudanshakai and Kodokan Judo
Associations and certifications
- USA Judo
- United States Judo Federation
- International Judo Federation
What people say
Championship success
Expert instruction
Family-friendly environment
Cultural preservation
Strong community
Services
Judo Classes
Structured judo instruction for ages 5+. Focus on tachiwaza (standing throws) and newaza (ground techniques). Emphasizes safety through proper ukemi (breakfalls). Programs available for beginners through advanced black belt levels.
Summer Camps
Week-long intensive programs during July-August. Combines skill development, strength training, and competitive preparation. Features guest instructors from Japan and international champions. Includes cultural activities and team-building exercises.
Tournaments
Annual events attracting judokas from regional to international levels. Provides competitive experience for first-time participants through World Championship medalists. Includes refereeing clinics and kata demonstrations.
Adult Training
High-intensity randori (free sparring) sessions for experienced practitioners. Focus on Olympic-level techniques and competition strategies. Includes specialized instruction for grappling backgrounds transitioning from BJJ or wrestling.
Seminars
Technical instruction from visiting international experts. Features specialized topics like grip fighting, counter-techniques, and IJF rule-compliant strategies. Limited to 50 participants for personalized attention.
People
John Schaedler
6th Degree Black Belt
With over 40 years of competitive experience, John Schaedler has certified numerous black belts and led teams to national championships through his expertise in traditional Japanese Judo techniques.
Bert Mackey
7th Degree Black Belt
A decorated judo champion with multiple national titles, Bert Mackey specializes in advanced randori techniques and has coached Olympic-caliber athletes through structured tournament preparation programs.
Alvin Terada
6th Degree Black Belt
Five-time national champion Alvin Terada develops successful competition strategies, mentoring judokas who have earned medals at Pan American and World Championship levels.
Krista Tsutsui Steele
4th Degree Black Belt
An IJF-certified referee with 25+ years of instruction experience, Krista Tsutsui Steele focuses on precise technical execution and competitive rule applications for tournament-level judokas.
Gary Idleburg
4th Degree Black Belt
Specializing in newaza techniques, Gary Idleburg has developed multiple national champions through his innovative ground-fighting instruction methods recognized across Pacific Northwest competitions.
Questions
What age groups does Budokan Dojo accept?
We teach judo to students aged 5 through adults, offering programs specifically tailored for juniors, teens, and adult practitioners.
Are there beginner programs for adults?
Yes, we provide special beginner instruction before adult classes, focusing on ukemi (breakfalls) and basic techniques for those without martial arts experience.
How often are tournaments held?
We host an annual championship in April and participate in regional events like the Washington Open in July and Pacific Northwest competitions.
Is prior martial arts experience required?
No prior experience is needed. Our structured curriculum accommodates complete beginners while offering advanced progression for experienced martial artists.
What equipment is required?
Students need a judogi (uniform) and belt. Protective gear may be recommended for specific training sessions or competitions.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide family membership discounts. Contact us directly for specific pricing details and package options.
