Nestled in the city of Burbank, the Martial Arts History Museum is designed as an Asian educational, cultural, and artistic experience, it is a place in which visitors and young people can learn about each of the different Asian countries (China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, etc.) and how martial arts played a significant role in their culture, history, and traditions.
It also provides a historical look at American history with sections on the History of Anime, Martial Arts in America, and Media arts including Hollywood films, tv, and magazines. The Martial Arts History Museum is something the whole family can enjoy and it is a great place for home school kids and public school kids to get an education about Asian history and write book reports about it.
It also provides a historical look at American history with sections on the History of Anime, Martial Arts in America, and Media arts including Hollywood films, tv, and magazines. The Martial Arts History Museum is something the whole family can enjoy and it is a great place for home school kids and public school kids to get an education about Asian history and write book reports about it.
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The Martial Arts History Museum officially began as a registered museum on Sept. 15, 1999. It was founded by former magazine publisher, martial arts historian and martial arts veteran Michael Matsuda. The concept of the museum actually began in 1987 but didn't officially begin until 1999.
After a number of dinner ceremonies and special events, the Martial Arts History Museum gathered the biggest martial arts icons in the world to cut the ribbon in launching the first of many traveling exhibits.For the next four years, the museum was on the road going all across the country.
After a number of dinner ceremonies and special events, the Martial Arts History Museum gathered the biggest martial arts icons in the world to cut the ribbon in launching the first of many traveling exhibits.For the next four years, the museum was on the road going all across the country.
Michael holds degrees in business management, journalism and art design. He graduated from The Master's University, attending the American Film Institute for film production and USC and CSUN for business. He has an extensive background in marketing & research, media communications, broadcasting, public relations and museum operations.
In addition to the wonderful displays at the Museum (designed by the people of Disney, the Simpsons, Dreamworks and more), the Museum's huge draw are their events. From Sushi seminars, martial arts demonstrations, Asian musical performances, movie screenings, martial arts celebrity days and more, you don't want to miss these great events.
The Martial Arts History Museum is proud to present the Museum's "Expert Class." A gathering of the greatest martial artists one could imagine, giving their tips, advice, and techniques for you to learn by and to support the Museum.
From the biggest champions to the most deadliest fighters to the breath-taking traditionalist to the 21st century revampers, here at "Expert Class, " you will enjoy our ongoing series of courses.all for free and coming in February.
From the biggest champions to the most deadliest fighters to the breath-taking traditionalist to the 21st century revampers, here at "Expert Class, " you will enjoy our ongoing series of courses.all for free and coming in February.
Recognized by the Martial Arts History Museum as the "official Hall of Fame" for the martial arts community in America, the MUSEUM HALL OF FAME consists of those individuals who have made historic and iconic impacts upon the martial arts community as a whole. A Hall of Fame should be the hardest thing to get into, not the easiest.
Reviews (26)
Krysta Scharlach
Dec 19, 2021
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Trinity Williams
Nov 25, 2021
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Amy M.
Nov 08, 2021
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I stumbled upon this museum and wasn't disappointed. It's a very small museum but I spent at least an hour here. All the videos were interesting. The first video showed different film clips and it made me realize how pervasive martial arts is in popular culture and film, cartoons, anime, animation, etc. You will definitely learn something new if you come here and there are interesting weapons to see.
Check their calendar for events and screenings.
Check their calendar for events and screenings.
Kari K.
Oct 02, 2021
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Amazing Museum to learn about the influence of martial arts in our culture! Perfect for kids and adults. Is small so you can see everything in five minutes, but we were very interested and spent almost two hours. My kids really wanted to complete the scavenger hunt :) Can't wait to attend one of their special events!
Julian Johnson
May 29, 2021
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Khachik Hmayakyan
Apr 27, 2021
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Excellent place for lovers of pop culture, history and of course martial arts. The staff is so kind and welcoming, the museum is easy to navigate and delves deep into the history of such a wide variety of martial art styles, from Muay Thai to Kung Fu, to Kali, to Lua. Most impressive was the excellent collection of pop culture memorabilia, from uniforms, to props to weapons. Would happily return to learn more any day.
Thomas Altum
Mar 29, 2021
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Vanessa Ramirez
Mar 05, 2021
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Genny Alvarez
Feb 24, 2021
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Brian C.
Dec 13, 2020
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Don't let the small size fool you! The museum is full of fun, interesting things.
Upon entering, you are greeted by the friendly President of the museum, Mr. Michael Matsuda. I've spoken to him a few times; he's very knowledgeable and down to earth.
There is something here for anyone who has any interest in martial arts, regardless of style. I have practiced different styles (such as Aikido, Kenpo Karate, and Northern Shaolin Kung Fu); I found something for each art I practiced before. I was also surprised to see Professional Wrestling being mentioned, which I am a big fan of
Upon entering, you are greeted by the friendly President of the museum, Mr. Michael Matsuda. I've spoken to him a few times; he's very knowledgeable and down to earth.
There is something here for anyone who has any interest in martial arts, regardless of style. I have practiced different styles (such as Aikido, Kenpo Karate, and Northern Shaolin Kung Fu); I found something for each art I practiced before. I was also surprised to see Professional Wrestling being mentioned, which I am a big fan of
Devin Diaz
Dec 25, 2019
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Great museum! Very small but extremely comprehensive. The museum president is very nice and helpful. It's a great museum for adults and for children alike. They showcase all forms of martial arts and even play video clips from TV shows and movies where martial arts is featured, such as Kim Possible and Ice Age. Wonderful little gift shop with affordable goods. 10/10 worth a visit. Free day is the first Thursday of the month after 3pm, but regular price is $10.
Ed F.
Aug 09, 2019
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A huge "Thank You" to Michael Matsuda for creating this Martial Arts History Museum. I brought my students, including my son, and all had a great experience. The entire place presents a timeline relatable to all martial arts practitioners and would be a nice introduction to beginners or people generally interested in history and/or the history of martial arts. Parking is in the structure to the right of the museum. We will definitely take another trip out there in the near future. The kids also have a fact finding activity when you reach the end of the exhibits. Awesome gem in Burbank
Eduardo J.
Jul 28, 2019
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If you're a martial arts nerd like me, this pocket-sized museum is worth a visit. It's so small that you can actually read all the informational placards on the exhibits and still get out in under an hour. However, it's a clean, well-maintained and curated collection of uniforms, armor and weapons from the world's major martial traditional arts systems. There is also a section devoted to martial arts in the media, which showcases several props and costumes from well-known movies and TV shows.
I don't know that there is enough to warrant more than one visit, but I still
I don't know that there is enough to warrant more than one visit, but I still
Angela M.
Jul 06, 2019
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Fernando Ramirez
Jun 03, 2019
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This place is absolutely worth the price of admission and the time that you spend here! 5 stars! it's a self guided walk through with little informative videos (i highly suggest you watch them) there is so much to know and learn about martial arts that you wouldn't even realize it. if you're in the area or even have minimal interest in martial arts, you should definitely stop by
Greg A.
Sep 27, 2018
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Eneka C.
Apr 13, 2018
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Not my usual area of interest I'll admit, but that said, I found this to be a very fascinating and educational stop. I loved seeing the movie props, references to TMNT, and of course, the weaponry. I spent about an hour here. Seems like a great place to take kids as well. Admission was $10. Street parking is available. The Bearded Lady Mystic Museum is not far from here.
William F.
Feb 10, 2018
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Very cool, one of a kind museum dedicated to the rich history of the martial arts and Asian Culture. Here you will see displays and videos representing the various fighting systems from around the world including Japan & Okinawa, China, Thailand, Korea, Hawaii, The Philippines, and more. Also, there is a section dedicated to martial arts in the media where they have movie props on display including "Daniel-San's" head-band from "The Karate Kid" film. The Martial Arts History Museum is the brain-child of Michael Matsuda, who is also a life-long martial artist and a Master
Keith Casey
Dec 18, 2017
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Kato Paul W.
Jun 25, 2017
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The place is quite small there was no room to wiggle my balls.
Well, I respect the facts and info posted on the wall. It is good for those who are new to martial arts, to explore or learn that there are so many different arts and styles from different parts of the world.
The museum covered;
Kung fu (animal styles) and weapons from China.
Karate, judo, jujitsu, zumo, samurai and ninja weapons from Japan.
Taekwondo and weapons from Korea.
Lua, Hawaiian / Polynesian arts and weapons.
Kali, knives, arnis sticks of fillipine arts.
Muay Thai, swords from Thailand.
Krav maga of Israel
Older kick
Well, I respect the facts and info posted on the wall. It is good for those who are new to martial arts, to explore or learn that there are so many different arts and styles from different parts of the world.
The museum covered;
Kung fu (animal styles) and weapons from China.
Karate, judo, jujitsu, zumo, samurai and ninja weapons from Japan.
Taekwondo and weapons from Korea.
Lua, Hawaiian / Polynesian arts and weapons.
Kali, knives, arnis sticks of fillipine arts.
Muay Thai, swords from Thailand.
Krav maga of Israel
Older kick
Leonard F.
Feb 02, 2017
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Kaori T.
Oct 05, 2016
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What a nice little gem this place is! This place is amazing and if you even have MINIMAL interest in martial arts, this museum will take it to the next level. Whether you're a geek into anime and weapons or someone who is curious about a world of martial arts discovery, this place is super awesome. I would say that depending on how much you decide to read, you can spend a nice hour or so learning about the origins of many different types of MA from different regions... And how it's featured, introduced into the States. Also lots of relics via Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, actually MA gear
Americus A.
Aug 21, 2016
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Kim O.
Aug 14, 2016
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As a person who loves spending time in museums and all things Asian, the Martial Arts History Museum is like hitting the jackpot.
Museum founder Michael Matsuda has written five books and was the previous publisher for Martial Arts Magazine. His depth of knowledge and passion shows throughout the space. While the space is limited, he does a great job of filling the space with a balance of written information, video exhibits and authentic weapons and uniforms.
The museum exams the history of the development of martial arts and its effect on American film and TV. Visitors of all ages will find
Museum founder Michael Matsuda has written five books and was the previous publisher for Martial Arts Magazine. His depth of knowledge and passion shows throughout the space. While the space is limited, he does a great job of filling the space with a balance of written information, video exhibits and authentic weapons and uniforms.
The museum exams the history of the development of martial arts and its effect on American film and TV. Visitors of all ages will find
Hungry H.
Apr 07, 2014
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I surprised my boyfriend by taking him here. He loves Martial Arts and Hong Kong cinema. We loved it.
I got a great deal on homerun.com (If you're not using yipit.com, do it, I get a list of deals sent to my mailbox everyday that includes groupon and living social). I paid $6 for an admission of 2. The owner Michael mentioned that they just put up a groupon deal, so I'm assuming that they post deals frequently.
The owner Michael is very nice. He welcomed us and shared a lot of information.
This place is small, but unique. I learned a lot about Martial Arts. I didn't know that
I got a great deal on homerun.com (If you're not using yipit.com, do it, I get a list of deals sent to my mailbox everyday that includes groupon and living social). I paid $6 for an admission of 2. The owner Michael mentioned that they just put up a groupon deal, so I'm assuming that they post deals frequently.
The owner Michael is very nice. He welcomed us and shared a lot of information.
This place is small, but unique. I learned a lot about Martial Arts. I didn't know that
La B.
Jan 05, 2014
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We (3 adults and one 8 year old) went today. We found a Groupon coupon that got all four of us in for $9! Whoo hoo!
The museum is very small, but it has some great exhibits. The martial arts are broken down by country which is pretty cool. Exhibits on China, Japan, The Philippines, Thailand, etc. have information, videos, full on samurai armor and tons of weapons. There is even a different display for ninjas than for samurai which is nice.
The museum makes an effort to include pop culture references and talks about martial arts all the way from China to today's mixed martial arts. An
The museum is very small, but it has some great exhibits. The martial arts are broken down by country which is pretty cool. Exhibits on China, Japan, The Philippines, Thailand, etc. have information, videos, full on samurai armor and tons of weapons. There is even a different display for ninjas than for samurai which is nice.
The museum makes an effort to include pop culture references and talks about martial arts all the way from China to today's mixed martial arts. An
