We are a Traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate school offering karate classes in Lakeview, Chicago. Established in 1962 we trace our lineage to Karate masters such as Shihan Sugiyama, Shihan Nishiyama, and Master Funakoshi, the founder of the Shotokan style of Karate. Join us for martial arts classes and learn the original Japanese art of self defense!
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JKA Chicago prides itself on being a source of Traditional Shotokan Karate while continuing to innovate techniques to allow the student to progress at the fastest possible rate. In addition to our weekly scheduled karate training and self defense classes we also offer customized group sessions, short courses, and frequent workshops.
Karate spread throughout the Midwest primarily due to Shihan Sugiyama and his students who have founded many dojos in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. In 1954, after having trained in two other styles of Karate, Shihan Sugiyama began training under Shihan Nishiyama among other instructors at the JKA headquarters dojo in Tokyo.
We offer all ranks martial arts classes located in Lakeview, Chicago. With emphasis on basics, students will focus and perfect the fundamental self defense techniques (Kihon) while building strength, endurance, flexibility, body coordination, and general fitness. They will also learn various forms (Kata) which are choreographed sequences of block and strike techniques.
Reviews (10)
Jordyn Murray
Jan 27, 2017
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This conscientious, demanding traditional shotokan karate dojo is the meeting place for a lively and diverse community of students and teachers. There is a strong sense of camaraderie among the members of the dojo, where teaching takes into consideration not only the fitness of students and their proficiency in karate techniques, but also their personal objectives in studying martial arts. Normal classes are supplemented with an array of workshops highlighting special topics in karate, from practical self-defense and the applications of the movements in kata (fluid forms incorporating a series
John Zurisk
Dec 18, 2016
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The JKA Chicago dojo is truly one of the finest karate schools I have ever had the pleasure to attend. The instructors are regarded as some of the finest around. They embody the true aspects of karate and teach with a real passion. With a long and rich history, I would highly recommend you visit them.
Sam Valentine
Dec 17, 2016
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Phenomenal instruction, challenging training, and a welcoming, close community make JKA Chicago an ideal sanctuary for physical and mental development. Every student gets close, personal attention from Senseis and Senpais alike. You really grow and learn together.
Another plus for this dojo is the rich culture. Not only are you absorbing Japanese arts and tradition, but also the culture of your fellow students and teachers. There are people here from all manner of backgrounds and walks of life. There's so much to learn here beyond martial arts.
I hope to continue my training here for years to
Another plus for this dojo is the rich culture. Not only are you absorbing Japanese arts and tradition, but also the culture of your fellow students and teachers. There are people here from all manner of backgrounds and walks of life. There's so much to learn here beyond martial arts.
I hope to continue my training here for years to
Carter O'Brien
Sep 29, 2016
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Traditional karate dojo with roots going back to the 70s. The training is rigorous and you will be challenged, but in a very supportive atmosphere, where senseis and your fellow students all strive to bring out the best in everyone. Karate practitioners develop better situational awareness, physical fitness, and self-confidence. Highly recommended!
Christine Laurens
Aug 29, 2016
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Anu J.
Jul 12, 2016
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Jessica Grocott
Jul 10, 2016
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The dojo is beautiful, the community is welcoming, the instruction is top notch, and the people are amazing. They have plenty of days of training to accommodate most anyone's schedule, and the dojo's instructors really help their students reach their best potential in shotokan karate. In less than a year of being at this dojo, I have seen several people from all over the world come to this dojo to train. The JKA Chicago - Sugiyama Dojo has a rich history of quality instruction in the Chicago area and is highly respected in the Great Lakes Region. If you live in the Chicago area, there is no better
Claire Wild
Jun 09, 2016
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Sarina Harjani
Jun 05, 2016
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Vijayshree Vethantham
Nov 08, 2015
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I've been part of the JKA Chicago Shotokan karate community for over 7 years, and learned so much from this wonderful dojo, the senseis and students! Unlike so many other places where the art and true foundations take a backseat for quick tricks or sport techniques, JKA Chicago emphasizes basics (kihon) in every movement, be it sparring (kumite) or forms (kata). The class timings are so convenient, affordable fees, and you are always taught by the BEST! If you are looking to immerse yourself in true martial arts and learn for a lifetime, JKA Chicago is your dojo.