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 FLORIDA BUDOKAN is a non-profit, traditional Japanese martial arts organization, located at the Arching Oaks Japanese Cultural Center in Eustis, Florida.
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 a historic and respected Japanese martial art. At Florida Budokan, students train in the general style (yosoku) under the official membership of the Great Japan Kyudo Federation. Our training hall is unique—it is the sole Kyudo dojo in Florida, purposefully established to copyright the timeless teachings of Kyudo.
Practicing Japanese Archery with Awareness
Japanese Archery emphasizes posture, controlled breathing, formal respect, and a meditative approach to action. Every class incorporates Zen meditation, helping practitioners cultivate mindfulness, inner calm, and mental clarity. Unlike Western-style archery, Kyudo views each release as a reflection of inner harmony.
Kyudo Training Schedule
• Kyudo for all students – Sunday 2:00pm
• Kyudo Beginners on Thursdays at 6:30pm
Students are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early and may stay 30 minutes after class for self-study under the guidance of sempai.
Traditional Karate & Shotokan Karate at Makoto Dojo
Karate at the Florida Budokan organization is delivered using authentic Shotokan training techniques, affiliated with the IMAF (International Martial Arts Federation) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. These strong lineages link students to historical martial heritage, including lineage tracing to Tokugawa leadership.
Shotokan Karate – Strength, Mind, and Virtue
classical Shotokan training emphasizes fundamental techniques, prearranged sequences, and kumite (sparring). Classes integrate strength training with character building—respect, perseverance, humility, and courage.
Karate Training Times
• Mondays 6:30pm – Karate Advanced
• 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.
Kashimon Dojo: Iaido – The Art of Japanese Sword Drawing
Japanese sword-drawing art is practiced at the Kashimon Dojo of Florida Budokan through the Toyama Ryu sword-drawing techniques under the Toyama Ryu Battodo Association. Our dojo is recognized as the first accredited Toyama Ryu branch in the Americas.
Iaido – Precision and Control
The art focuses on exact techniques for drawing, striking, and sheathing. Students also train in Zen Nihon Batto-Do methods, through the ZNBDR, expanding their understanding of Japanese Swordsmanship.
Iaido Lesson Schedule
• Tuesday 6:30pm – Iaido practice
• Wednesdays 6:30pm – Iaido Beginners
• All-level Iaido class on Fridays at 6:30pm
Traditional Japanese Swordsmanship – Skills and Heritage
Kenjutsu and related sword arts represents centuries of warrior tradition. At Florida Budokan, this includes the entire practice of traditional sword arts: proper etiquette, 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 respect cultural traditions.
Budo – Philosophy and Practice
The collective martial spirit is the unifying philosophy behind all these disciplines, and it is taught through every class.
Budo emphasizes:
• Virtuous behavior
• Duty to others
• Cultivating inner calm
• Integrating physical, mental, and spiritual training
Every training session reflects the spirit of Budo through etiquette, meditation, and supportive training dynamics.
Dojo Operations & Community Expectations
The dojo is open 30 minutes before and after every class for self-study or guided review with sempai. To ensure a high-quality learning environment, Florida Budokan is accessible only during classes, workshops, and special programs.
Volunteer Spirit
As a educational nonprofit, Florida Budokan depends on student and community support. All students are invited to support the dojo through volunteer work, assisting with upkeep and programs, and serving the community.
Membership & Tuition Details
Our tuition is designed to be affordable while supporting quality instruction.
• Monthly tuition for standard members: $85
• Veterans & Students (Middle, High, College): $75/month
• Family member rate: $50/month
• Annual memberships for Karate, Iaido, Kyudo, and insurance: $65/year (due every March)
Students participate in cleaning and maintenance, teaching respect and community values.
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 twenty acres.
The grounds include:
• Dual authentic dojos
• Tatami room for tea & incense
• Creative studios and learning classrooms
• Meditation gardens and water features for reflection
This cultural retreat allows students and visitors to decompress, reflect, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture.
Begin Your Journey in Kyudo, Karate, Iaido & Budo
If you feel inspired by Kyudo (Japanese Archery), Shotokan-style Karate, the art of Japanese sword-drawing, Japanese Swordsmanship, or the broader traditions of Japanese martial culture, Florida Budokan offers a place to train with authenticity. Whether your goal is personal growth, strength and conditioning, learning authentic Japanese arts, or inner growth, your path begins here.
Visit Florida Budokan – Arching Oaks
???? Florida Budokan – Arching Oaks Japanese Cultural Center
Eustis, Florida 32736 – 37114 N Thrill Hill Rd
FAQ’s
FAQ 1: Which disciplines can I study at Florida Budokan?
Florida Budokan offers authentic Japanese Budo Japanese Archery disciplines rooted in time-honored Budo philosophy. Training includes Kyudo (Japanese Archery), Karate and Shotokan Karate, Iaido (Japanese sword-drawing art), and Japanese Swordsmanship. 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 beginner-friendly classes, and training is delivered in a structured, step-by-step manner to ensure student safety, proper learning, and steady growth.
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 competitive sport.
FAQ 4: Is Shotokan Karate taught at Florida Budokan?
Karate training follows classical Shotokan methodology under recognized organizations including the Kokusai Budoin–International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Kyokai of Japan. Classes focus on fundamental techniques, kata (forms), and controlled partner training, 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 well-rounded foundation to Japanese Swordsmanship.
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 Iaido 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 events. Students may arrive 30 minutes before class and remain up to thirty minutes afterward for self-study or assistance with senior students.