Kyudo (Japanese Archery), Shotokan Karate, Iaido, Japanese Swordsmanship, and Budo together represent the core of training at Florida Budokan Florida Budokan is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit for traditional Japanese martial arts, located at 37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736.
At our two dojos, we make a pledge: Offering genuine Japanese martial arts in a structured and secure environment. With your effort and focus, we provide guidance, encouragement, and a supportive dojo.
Florida Budokan Kyudo – Japanese Archery & the Way of the Bow
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) is one of the oldest and most revered Japanese arts. At Florida Budokan, students study traditional Kyudo techniques under the official membership of the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Our training hall is unique—it is the one and only Kyudo training hall in Florida, built to preserve and share the classical wisdom of the Japanese way of the bow.
Japanese Archery as a Path of Mindfulness
Kyudo emphasizes proper form, breath discipline, etiquette, and a mindful practice to action. Every class incorporates meditative breathing, helping practitioners cultivate awareness, calmness, and clarity. Unlike contemporary archery, Kyudo views each release as a expression of centered focus.
Kyudo Lesson Times
• Sundays at 2pm – Kyudo All Levels
• 6:30pm Thursdays – Beginner Kyudo
Students are invited to come half an hour before class and may practice additional techniques after class under the guidance of instructors.
Makoto Dojo: Karate and Shotokan Karate – Classic Striking Arts
Karate at the Florida Budokan organization is delivered using authentic Shotokan training techniques, supported by the Kokusai Budoin organization and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Karate Association of Japan. These strong lineages link students to historical martial heritage, including lineage tracing to Tokugawa leadership.
Shotokan Karate – Strength, Mind, and Virtue
Shotokan Karate training emphasizes fundamental techniques, kata (forms), and partner practice. Classes blend physical conditioning with the deeper virtues of martial character—self-control, humility, perseverance, and courage.
Karate Class Schedule
• Monday 6:30pm – Advanced Karate
• Karatedo (all levels) on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Thursday 6:30pm – Intermediate Karate
• Karatedo All – Self Defense/Kumite on Fridays at 6:30pm
Private classes are also available by appointment.
Iaido – Japanese Sword-Drawing Art at Kashimon Dojo
Iaido is instructed at Florida Budokan’s Kashimon Dojo through the Toyama Ryu Iaido lineage under the TIBDR. 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 techniques, through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Association, enhancing knowledge of classical sword techniques.
Iaido Training Schedule
• Iaido on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Wednesday 6:30pm – Beginner Iaido
• Fridays 6:30pm – Iaido All
Traditional Japanese Swordsmanship – Skills and Heritage
Japanese Swordsmanship represents a long history of samurai practice. At Florida Budokan, this includes the full spectrum of techniques: correct manners, time-honored sword movements, cutting practice (tameshigiri), and a mastery of timing, ma-ai, and focus. Students develop fluid, deliberate motion, cultivate mental calm, and honor the heritage.
The Spirit of Budo in Japanese Martial Arts
Budo is the core principle behind all these disciplines, and it is embedded in our instruction.
Budo emphasizes:
• Moral character
• Responsibility to one’s community
• Developing mental balance
• Balancing mind, body, and soul
Every Kyudo, Karate, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class incorporates elements of Budo philosophy through practice, mindfulness, and character development.
Florida Budokan Dojo Guidelines
The dojo is available half an hour before and after class for individual practice or review with senior students. To preserve authenticity and quality instruction, Florida Budokan is available to visitors solely during instructional periods and events.
Supporting the Dojo & Community
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, Florida Budokan relies on the generosity and involvement of its members. All students are invited to support the dojo through volunteer work, helping maintain our dojos, and enhancing the training environment.
Tuition and Membership Information
Our tuition is set to support high-quality training and community access.
• Regular tuition: $85/month
• $75 per month – students and veterans
• Additional family member: $50/month
• Annual membership and dojo insurance $65/year, payable in March
Dojo cleaning (soji) and upkeep (samu) are expected responsibilities, practicing discipline and responsibility.
Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center
Florida Budokan is housed inside Arching Oaks Japanese Culture Center, the U.S.’s largest Japanese-themed arts facility, spanning a 20-acre property.
The grounds include:
• Two fully equipped Japanese training halls
• Traditional tatami room for tea and incense ceremonies
• Art and instructional spaces
• Japanese meditation & water garden
This immersive space allows students and visitors to relax and unwind, reconnect, and experience traditional Japanese arts firsthand.
Start Training in Japanese Martial Arts at Florida Budokan
If you feel inspired by Kyudo (Japanese Archery), classical Karate, Iaido, traditional swordsmanship, or the broader traditions of Japanese martial culture, Florida Budokan offers a place to develop your skills in a traditional setting. Whether your goal is self-mastery, physical fitness, appreciation of Japanese tradition, or personal floridabudokan transformation, your journey starts at Florida Budokan.
Florida Budokan Location & Contact
???? Florida Budokan at Arching Oaks Cultural Center
37114 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736
FAQ’s
FAQ 1: What Japanese martial arts does Florida Budokan offer?
Florida Budokan offers classical Japanese martial traditions rooted in traditional Budo principles. Training includes the art of Kyudo and Japanese Archery, traditional Shotokan-style Karate, Iaido (Japanese sword-drawing art), and Japanese Swordsmanship. All programs emphasize authentic lineage, 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, Karate 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 Yosoku style of Kyudo and are officially affiliated with the Great Japan Kyudo Federation. Kyudo training emphasizes posture, breath control, formal reigi, and Zen meditation, treating archery as a spiritual path rather than a sporting activity.
FAQ 4: What style of Karate is practiced at Florida Budokan?
Karate training follows classical Shotokan methodology under recognized organizations including the IMAF and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. Classes focus on fundamental techniques, kata (forms), and kumite (sparring), while developing personal discipline, including respect, perseverance, humility, and courage.
FAQ 5: What sword training is available at Florida Budokan?
The art of Iaido is the Japanese discipline of drawing, cutting, and returning the sword with precision and awareness. At Florida Budokan’s Iaido dojo, students practice Toyama Ryu Iaido under the TIBDR. Training also includes Batto-do through the ZNBDR, providing a comprehensive approach to traditional sword practice.
FAQ 6: Why is Budo important at Florida Budokan?
Budo is the guiding principle behind all training at Florida Budokan. It emphasizes moral character, self-control, respect, service to others, and harmony between body, mind, and spirit. Meditative practice, etiquette, and supportive training are integrated into every Kyudo, Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class.
FAQ 7: When can visitors attend the dojo?
Florida Budokan is located at 37114 N Thrill Hill Rd, Eustis, Florida 32736, within the Arching Oaks Cultural Center. The dojo is open only during scheduled training hours, special programs, and scheduled activities. Students may arrive 30 minutes before class and remain up to thirty minutes afterward for individual practice or guided review with senior students.