What is the Kodokan Judo?

The Kodokan was founded in 1882 by the late Professor Mr. Jigoro Kano who himself had established Judo. Judo was derived from Ju-Jitsu which had many names and schools. Ju-Jitsu is an art for either attacking others or defending oneself with nothing but one's own body. Prof. Kano adopted the superlative parts of all the Ju-Jitsu schools, got rid of precarious parts, and established the new Kodokan Judo based on his own insight and arrangement.

What is the purpose of the Kodokan Judo?

The goal of the Kodokan Judo is to perfect yourself in order to contribute yourself to society. Judo is the way to the most effective use of both physical and spiritual strength. Through Judo training, you are expected to be a person who can apply your physical/spiritual strength for the welfare of the world.

Who can apply for the Kodokan membership?

Everyone who wants to study Judo at the Kodokan can apply for the membership.

Can I tour the Kodokan?

Yes, you can tour around in the Kodokan. There is a Memorial Hall and a Library where you can see memorabilia of our founder Mr. Jigoro Kano and Judo related materials. The hall and library is open Monday - Friday, 10am -12pm and 1pm -5pm.

Can I watch Judo classes?

Yes, you can watch the classes from the 8th floor spectator seating. The Randori Class is held Monday to Saturday from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The Boys and Girls class is held Monday to Saturday from 4:30pm to 6:00pm. Please contact the International Department for checking possible schedule changes.

Can I watch classes before I sign up?

Yes, you can. We recommend to do so as to make sure our class is what you really want.

Do I have to wear a Judo-gi (uniform)?

Yes. You have to wear a Judo-gi when you practice at Kodokan.

Can I wear a blue Judo-gi?

No. Only white Judo-gi is allowed.

Do men and women practice together?

Randori class is open for both men and women. We have a Women's Class for female trainees who would like to study basics and Katas in particular.

Do international students and Japanese students practice together?

Yes. Basically instructions are given in Japanese but there is at least one instructor who understands English and you can ask questions in English when you need to.

Do you offer an insurance that I can join?

Students apply for insurance by themselves if they need.

Do you support to get visa?

No. We do not act as a sponsor for any kinds of visas.

I have Ju-Jitsu experience. Am I still considered as a beginner in Judo?

Judo and Ju-Jitsu have something in common but we take you as a beginner in Judo in order for you to acquire Judo basics properly.

Is private/group lesson available?

Yes. But there are some periods that we cannot conduct private/group lessons. For reservations and more information, contact International Department.

I have a Dan in my country. Can I wear a black belt when I practice at the Kodokan?

Yes, you can.

How young children can join the class?

Basically 4 year-old is the youngest age to join the class. There is an interview with an instructor before you sign up for the Boys and Girls class.

Do you have any Kata class?

We hold a Kata class once a month. Please contact the International Department for schedules. You can also practice Kata in the Randori class. For students who hold 4th Dan and above, there is a Summer Kata Course to learn Kata intensively under special instructors.

Who can stay at the Kodokan Hostel?

Kodokan membership holders only for the period of their Judo training at the Kodokan.

How long can I stay?

The maximum length is 3 months.

Do you have a big room for groups?

Yes, we have several dormitory type rooms where maximum 20 people can stay at once. Ask the International Department for reservations and information.

Is there a training room that I can use?

Yes. You have to be in more than 2 persons group for safety reasons.

Can children stay?

Persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or an adult leader.

I lost my membership card. Can I get it again?

Yes, you can. For cost and further information, contact the International Department.

I lost my Kodokan Dan Diploma. Can I get it again?

Yes. There is an application form we'd like you to fill in. Contact the International Department.

Is there a shop where I can buy Judo-gi/Obi?

Yes. There is a shop in the Kodokan building. They open Monday to Saturday, between the hours of 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 6pm.

Can I have my name embroidered on my Judo-gi/Obi at your shop?

Yes. It takes about 3 weeks after the shop received your order. If you do not have time, come to the International Department. We will give you other shops information at where you can try your urgent request.

Does your shop take credit cards?

No. The shop takes Japanese Yen in cash only. You can use credit card on our internet shop.

• Telephone number: +81-03-3818-4172
• Fax number: +81-03-3814-2918
• Address: 1-16-30, Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 112-0003, JAPAN
• E-mail address: intl@kodokan.org
• Business hours: Monday to Friday: 9:30am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 5:30pm