Welcome to Kenshinkai – Traditional Karate in Central Tokyo

With over 55 years of tradition in Tokyo’s Chuo Ward, Kenshinkai, a not-for-profit dojo, offers training in Shorin-ryu Karate, one of Okinawa’s oldest and most respected martial arts.

 

Founded in 1970, our dojo has helped generations of students build confidence, discipline, and lifelong strength through the practice of karate with our highly respected instructors. 

 

We offer a welcoming and supportive environment, where each student—regardless of age, experience, or background—can enjoy learning at their own pace. Our classes are guided by multiple experienced instructors, ensuring attentive teaching in small groups.

 

Those who are considering joining are welcome to observe a class or join a free trial lesson. Please feel free to contact us—we look forward to meeting you at Kenshinkai.

 

Sincerely,

Sekai Funayama

Chief Instructor of Kenshinkai  

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Note for Visitors: Our dojo is dedicated to the consistent, long-term practice of our members. Please be advised that we do not offer one-time experiences or drop-in sessions for tourists. We appreciate your understanding.

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Kenshinkai is a dojo where students can enjoy learning karate at their own pace, in a way that fits their individual lifestyle and goals. We especially recommend Kenshinkai for the following:

 

▶︎ For Parents Considering Karate for Their Children

• Karate naturally develops not only technique, but also physical strength, coordination, core stability, and mental concentration.
• Children also build discipline, confidence, and social skills through training in a respectful and supportive environment.

• Children can learn at their own pace in small, friendly groups at Kenshinkai.

• No prior experience is necessary, and our experienced instructors support every student.

• Karate is one of the few sports that families, including parents and siblings, can enjoy practicing together.

▶︎ For Adults Interested in Karate for Health and Fitness

• Shorin-ryu emphasizes natural movement, making it gentle on the body and suitable for all fitness levels.

• Training helps improve balance and focus through kata, and you'll enjoy learning at your own pace.

• It’s a sport you can continue for many years, even as you age.

▶︎ For Adults Seeking Deeper Karate Study

• Learn directly from respected Shorin-ryu masters

• Many of our students have become instructors themselves

Q. What ages can join?

A. We welcome everyone from preschool children to seniors.

 

Q. I’m a complete beginner. Is that okay?
A. Absolutely. We provide step-by-step instruction starting from the basics.

 

Q. What are classes like?
A. Classes are flexible and tailored to each student’s age and goals. A typical session includes warm-ups, basic techniques, kata (forms), and optional sparring. Beginners receive step-by-step guidance.

 

Q. Is English OK?  

A. Yes! We have instructors and members who speak fluent English, so you are very welcome to join us!

 

Q. When can I join a trial class or come for a visit?
A. We generally recommend Sunday classes for trial lessons, as more members attend and it’s easier to experience the dojo atmosphere and training flow. 

• If you would like to observe first, we recommend coming after 10:00, when you can watch kata practice and sparring. A simple trial experience is also available.
• Trial lessons usually take place from 9:10 to around 11:50, during which you can join the warm-ups and regular karate practices along with Kenshinkai members. 
• What to bring: Workout clothes, a towel, and a drink. Please trim your nails and remove all jewelry/watches for safety.

Q. How much is the monthly fee?

A. The fee is ¥3,000/month.

Family discounts are available.

Other fees are:

-Enrollment Fee: ¥3,000 (one-time only)

-Annual Josinmon School Registration: ¥7,500 (children) / ¥10,000 (adults)
 

“The instructors recognize and nurture each child's unique qualities, fostering their growth. It's a place where children can truly flourish, both in mind and body.” 

– Mother of a 6th grade student

 

“We began training together when my child was little. Over the years, we grew stronger—and now we both wear black belts.”

– Father in his 40s

 

“After years of training with my child, I now continue for my own health. Kenshinkai is a warm and welcoming dojo, even for senior members.”


– Woman in her 50s

▶︎ Practice Schedule

Sundays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesdays: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

 

⚠️ For the latest practice dates, please see the "Schedule" at the bottom of the homepage [Link]

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▶︎ Location

Address: 2-3-1 Tsukuda, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Venue: Tsukuda Elementary School Clubhouse (1st Floor)

 

⚠️ The dojo is located between the elementary and junior high schools.

• Look for the phone booth across from the entrance – it’s a helpful landmark.
• You'll also see the Kenshinkai signboard at the entrance. 
• Once you enter the building, go past the shoe racks—our dojo is immediately on your right. 

Nearest Stations & Access:

• By Train: A 6-minute walk from Tsukishima Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line / Toei Oedo Line).
• By Bus: If using the Toei Bus (To 16 route) from Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit to Tokyo Big Sight, please get off at "River City 21." The building is just across the street from the bus stop.

Parking Notice:

• Bicycles: Park to the right of the entrance (free).
• Cars: Please use nearby public pay parking (No guest parking available).

▶︎ Who Can Join

• We welcome everyone, from young children (age 4 - 5 and up) to seniors, regardless of age or gender.
• For very young children, we ask that they join with a parent or sibling, or that a guardian accompanies them until they can go to the restroom by themselves.

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▶︎ How to join

1. Visit & Free Trial

• Feel free to visit us and join a free trial lesson first.
• Parents and siblings are welcome to participate together.
• What to bring: Workout clothes, a towel, and a drink. Please trim your nails and remove all jewelry/watches for safety.

2. Registration

1) Contact for Enrollment: Should you decide to join after your trial session, please contact us via email or use this form. We will then guide you through the submission process. 

2) Required Documents: Submission of the one-page application form is required.

• The form (English version available) will be provided to you at the dojo during your trial, or it can be sent via email upon request.
• Even if applying as a family, please submit a separate form for each individual.
• Please fill out the necessary information and bring the completed form with you to the dojo.
• Note: Please write your name in Japanese (Hiragana/Katakana) and your height on the form. These details are required to order your uniform. 
• If you need assistance with the Japanese spelling, please bring your My Number Card, and we will help you record your name accurately.

3) Submission and Initial Payment: Along with your application form, please bring the total amount for the following fees in cash (non-refundable):

• Enrollment Fee
• First Month’s Tuition
• Annual Registration Fee (for Joshinmon)

See "▶︎ Costs" below for the exact amounts of these fees.

3. Introduction (First Day): We will introduce you by name to the instructors and other members. 

4. Join the Group LINE: Used for daily communication. See "▶︎ Communication" below for details. 

⚠️ Please make sure to register on your very first day. Instructions can be found under Step 1 in the welcome guide, "Getting Started", which you will receive upon joining.

5. Joshimon Original Beginner's Manual (valued at ¥1,500) will be gifted to you (1–2 weeks after enrollment)

6. Order Your Uniform

• A karate uniform is required. If you need one, we can assist with sizing and ordering, so don’t worry!
• Your name will be embroidered on your uniform.

• Please wear comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothes until your uniform arrives (2-3 weeks).

• If you already own a karate uniform, you are required to purchase the designated Joshinmon chest emblem and have it sewn onto your uniform. We can assist ordering.

• Payment for the uniform is handled directly by the specialty store, typically via bank or convenience store payment. (Uniforms are custom orders, and cancellation is not possible once placed.)
• Female students and those with tattoos generally wear a plain white T-shirt under their uniform.

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▶︎ Communication

• All announcements from the dojo, as well as notifications about lateness or absence, etc. are handled through our LINE group account.
• After you join, please make sure to register for our LINE group.
• We may also contact you individually by email if needed.

• In case of an emergency, we may contact the emergency phone number you provide on your application form.

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▶︎ Practice Schedule

• Sundays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  Wednesdays: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Any changes to the practice schedule will be announced on LINE and on our website (see the "Schedule" at the bottom of the homepage [Link to the page]

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▶︎ Costs

• Enrollment Fee: ¥3,000 (one-time only)

• Monthly Fee: ¥3,000 (Family Discount: ¥5,000 for every 2 family members)

Other Costs:

• Annual Joshinmon Registration Fee: ¥7,500 for children / ¥10,000 for adults  (Due in November for the following year)

• Optional Sports Safety Insurance: ¥800 for junior high school students and younger /  ¥2,000 for high school students and above / ¥1,200 for those aged 65 and over. (Note: Renewal for the new fiscal year is due every March. You can also apply for this insurance at any time during the year.) 🔗 Official Website (English – auto-translated)

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▶︎ Monthly Fees

• At the beginning of each month, you will receive a payment envelope from Funayama-Sensei.
• Please submit the monthly fee in the payment envelope at your next practice.
• Payment is cash only, so please prepare the exact amount if possible.
• Only for the first month, the tuition is due upon submission of your application form, along with the enrollment fee and the annual registration fee (Joshinmon). 

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▶︎ Safety Guidelines

To ensure a safe and pleasant training environment for all members, please adhere to the following:

• Nail Care: As we practice with bare hands and feet, please keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed short.
• No Jewelry or Accessories: Please remove all jewelry and accessories, including earrings, rings, necklaces, and watches (including smartwatches), before practice to prevent injuries to yourself and others. (Note: Glasses are not permitted during matches/competitions.)

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▶︎  Learning Materials

• Beginner's Manual: A few weeks after you join, you will receive a beginner's manual covering basic stances, punches, kicks, and more.
• Members Portal [Link to the page] 
• • This portal contains manuals, including English references, grading criteria, practice/past grading videos, and other frequently used materials for members.
• Some members may also have videos of past grading tests or tournaments. Please feel free to ask in the LINE group if you’d like to see them.

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▶︎ Promotion Tests (Grading & Dan Exams)

• Kyu grading tests (from 10th Kyu to Shodan-ho) are held four times a year, on the first Sunday of March, June, September, and December in Tokyo.
• Dan grading (1st Dan and above) are held twice a year, on the first Sunday of June and December in Tokyo.
• As students advance, their belt color changes in stages. For children, the typical progression is:  White → Yellow (10th-9th Kyu)→ Orange (8th Kyu) → Sky Blue (7th Kyu) → Purple (6th-5th Kyu) → Green (4th-3rd  Kyu) → Brown (2nd-1st Kyu) → Brown w/ black line (Shodan-ho)→ Black. 
• For adults, the progression begins at White, followed by Purple (6th Kyu), skipping the beginner colors used for children. This progression helps keep students motivated.
• The requirements for kyu/dan grading are listed in the Members Portal. 
• We respect each student’s pace, so we encourage but do not require anyone to take tests.
• A "Mikiwame" (pretest) is always held approximately one week before each grading exam. During this session, Funayama-Sensei will evaluate the performance of those wishing to take the exam and provide feedback. Please note that passing this pretest is mandatory to proceed to the official grading.
• A grading or dan exam requires a testing fee and certificate fee [PDF].

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▶︎ Tournaments

• Joshinmon tournaments include the Eastern Japan Youth Tournament (April - May), the National Tournament (July - August), and the Senior Tournament (October).
• Chuo Ward tournaments (for children to seniors) are held twice a year, in April and November.
• Tokyo Metropolitan tournaments are usually in May (for youth) and June (for seniors).
• Just like with promotions, we encourage but do not require anyone to participate in tournaments. However, competing is a valuable way to see your growth, so anyone who wants to join is welcome!
• Anyone interested in Kumite or competing will need to purchase a full set of protective gear [PDF] (available at stores such as 🔗 Shureido and 🔗 Mizuno Tokyo (Note: These official websites are auto-translated.)

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▶︎ Photos and Videos

We post photos of our activities on our website and SNS. If you prefer not to be featured, please email our PR staff during your trial or enrollment. We are happy to accommodate your requests.

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▶︎ Questions?

If you have questions, please feel free to contact us via email or LINE (for members)!