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 37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736.
At our two dojos, we make a simple promise: Authentic Japanese martial arts in a safe, professional, and systematic setting. You bring commitment and hard work—we bring inspiration, guidance, and a place to thrive.
Kyudo (Japanese Archery) – The Way of the Bow at Florida Budokan
The classical discipline of Kyudo is a historic and respected Japanese martial art. At Florida Budokan, students study traditional Kyudo techniques under the official membership of the Great Japan Kyudo Federation. Our Seibukan Kyudojo is distinctive—it is the one and only Kyudo training hall in Florida, designed for safeguarding and teaching the enduring practices of Japanese Archery.
Kyudo – Mindful Archery Practice
the art of Japanese archery emphasizes body alignment, breath discipline, etiquette, and a calm-centered mindset to action. Every class incorporates Zen meditation, helping practitioners cultivate mindfulness, tranquility, and mental clarity. Unlike Western-style archery, Kyudo views each release as a manifestation of mental balance.
Kyudo Lesson Times
• Sundays at 2pm – Kyudo All Levels
• 6:30pm Thursdays – Beginner Kyudo
Students are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior and may stay 30 minutes after class for self-study under the guidance of sempai.
Makoto Dojo: Karate and Shotokan Karate – Classic Striking Arts
Traditional Karate at Florida Budokan is taught through traditional Shotokan Karate methods, supported by the Kokusai Budoin organization and the GIMA-HA Shotokan-Ryu Karate Association of Japan. These powerful affiliations tie practitioners to classical Japanese masters, including Tokugawa Shogunate descendants.
Shotokan Karate for Body, Spirit, and Character
Shotokan-style Karate training emphasizes fundamental techniques, kata (forms), and kumite (sparring). Classes blend physical conditioning with the deeper virtues of martial character—self-control, humility, perseverance, and courage.
Karate Training Times
• Mondays 6:30pm – Karate Advanced
• Tuesdays 6:30pm – Karatedo (All Levels)
• Karate Intermediate on Thursdays at 6:30pm
• Friday 6:30pm – Karatedo All Levels Self-Defense & Sparring
Private classes are also available by appointment.
Iaido – Japanese Sword-Drawing Art at Kashimon Dojo
Iaido is practiced at the Kashimon Dojo of Florida Budokan through the tradition of Toyama Ryu Iaido under the TIBDR. Our dojo is recognized as the first accredited Toyama Ryu branch in the Americas.
Iaido – Precision and Control
The art teaches controlled, precise movements for drawing, cutting, and returning the sword. Students also train in Batto-do, through the Zen Nihon Batto-Do Association, deepening mastery of traditional sword arts.
Iaido Training Schedule
• Iaido on Tuesdays at 6:30pm
• Iaido for beginners on Wednesdays at 6:30pm
• Friday 6:30pm – Iaido all levels
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: formal dojo conduct, time-honored sword movements, tameshigiri exercises, and a refined understanding of timing, distance, and intention. Students practice moving with mental stillness, strengthen concentration, and honor the heritage.
The Spirit of Budo in Japanese Martial Arts
Japanese Budo is the guiding spirit behind all these disciplines, and it is central to training at Florida Budokan.
Budo emphasizes:
• Virtuous behavior
• Responsibility to one’s community
• Growing centered awareness
• Integrating physical, mental, and spiritual training
Every Kyudo, Karate, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, and Japanese Swordsmanship class teaches the principles of Budo through etiquette, meditation, and supportive training dynamics.
Dojo Operations & Community Expectations
The dojo is available half an hour before and after class for individual practice or review with senior students. To maintain traditional standards, Florida Budokan is accessible only during classes, workshops, and special programs.
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 encouraged to contribute a few volunteer hours each year, participating in community and dojo activities, and supporting fellow students.
Tuition and Membership Information
Our tuition is set to support high-quality training and community access.
• $85 per month – regular membership
• Discounted tuition $75/month Budo for students and veterans
• Additional family member: $50/month
• Annual membership and dojo insurance $65/year, payable in March
Students participate in cleaning and maintenance, reflecting the spirit of Budo.
Arching Oaks – Home of Florida Budokan
Florida Budokan is located within Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center, America’s largest Japanese cultural center, spanning twenty acres.
The grounds include:
• Dual authentic dojos
• Tatami room for cultural practice and tea rituals
• Creative studios and learning classrooms
• Meditation gardens and water features for reflection
This cultural retreat allows students and visitors to relax and unwind, reconnect, and immerse themselves in Japanese culture.
Your Path to Kyudo, Karate, Iaido, and Budo Begins Here
If you feel called to practice traditional Japanese archery, Shotokan Karate, Iaido, Japanese Swordsmanship, or the broader traditions of classical Budo, Florida Budokan offers a place to practice with structure and guidance. Whether your goal is discipline, physical fitness, learning authentic Japanese arts, or personal transformation, your path begins here.
Florida Budokan Location & Contact
???? Florida Budokan at Arching Oaks Cultural Center
37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736
FAQ’s
FAQ 1: Which disciplines can I study at Florida Budokan?
Florida Budokan offers classical Japanese martial traditions rooted in classical Budo. Training includes the art of Kyudo and Japanese Archery, Karate and Shotokan Karate, Iaido sword-drawing practice, and classical Japanese sword arts. All programs emphasize authentic lineage, proper etiquette, and personal development.
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, step-by-step manner to ensure safety, clear understanding, and steady growth.
FAQ 3: What sets Florida Budokan Kyudo apart?
Florida Budokan is home to the sole Kyudo dojo in Florida. Students train in the general style (yosoku) and are officially affiliated with the Dai Nippon Kyudo Kai. Kyudo training emphasizes body alignment, breath control, etiquette, and Zen meditation, treating archery as a spiritual path rather than a sporting activity.
FAQ 4: Which Karate system is taught at the dojo?
Karate training follows traditional Shotokan Karate under recognized organizations including the Kokusai Budoin–International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) and the GIMA-HA 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 is Iaido, and how is Japanese Swordsmanship taught?
The art of Iaido is the Japanese discipline of drawing, cutting, and returning Iaido the sword with control and intent. At Florida Budokan’s Kashimon Dojo, students practice Toyama Ryu sword arts under the TIBDR. Training also includes Batto-do through the ZNBDR, providing a comprehensive approach to traditional sword practice.
FAQ 6: What role does Budo play in classes?
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. Zen meditation, etiquette, and supportive training are integrated into every training session at the dojo.
FAQ 7: What are the location and operating hours?
Florida Budokan is located at 37114 North Thrill Hill Road, Eustis, FL 32736, within the Arching Oaks Japanese Art and Cultural Center. The dojo is open exclusively during class times, workshops, and scheduled activities. Students may arrive 30 minutes before class and remain up to thirty minutes afterward for self-study or assistance with senior students.