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Cranford JKC-Yonezuka Dojo
4.9 ★★★★★ 62 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Cranford, New Jersey
Affiliated dojo — reviews and the dojo's own info point to a recognized judo governing body or lineage (think USA Judo, USJA, USJF, Kodokan or Tenri). If affiliation matters to you, ask which body the dojo belongs to and under whom the head sensei earned their black belt.
Plan your first class
- Beginner-friendly all levels welcome, including total beginners — you don't need to be fit or have any experience to start
- Kids & youth classes kids and youth judo classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule cranfordjkc.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 908-276-3544
Hours
| Monday | 10 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 10 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–1 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“This dojo offers a welcoming, supportive environment where you can learn at your own pace, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced competitor.”
“Its a family run business that has warmly welcomed both kids and adults into the world of Judo for decades.”
“My younger son watched his older brother practice and compete and one day when he was only six years old, he went to Sensei Nick and asked him if he can join the Judo Club .”
“Having now received my Sandan certification from Kodokan, I first and foremost want to thank Sensei Nick Yonezuka and the legacy of Yonezuka family for this opportunity.”
Other martial arts here
“For me, judo and SAMBO have always been more sport than anything.”
“I went to the Cranford Judo Karate Club in the early 90's, and now my boys go.”
What members say
“Sensei Nick Yonezuka and his family represent a tremendous pedigree in the art and is driven to provide the best coaching he can for everyone, from Olympic hopefuls to hobbyists.”
“This dojo offers a welcoming, supportive environment where you can learn at your own pace, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced competitor.”
“Having now received my Sandan certification from Kodokan, I first and foremost want to thank Sensei Nick Yonezuka and the legacy of Yonezuka family for this opportunity.”
“He really liked how the training was structured, level of detail to various aspects of judo, and the friendly and professional environment at the dojo.”
“Classes are always a great workout and I’ve never felt lost following his instructions or drills.”
“My younger son watched his older brother practice and compete and one day when he was only six years old, he went to Sensei Nick and asked him if he can join the Judo Club .”
From the reviews
One of the best martial arts school in NJ or even USA. For me, judo and SAMBO have always been more sport than anything. I show up, train, and participate in competitions, and possibly win awards. Yes, with judo there were more ceremonies, but for me they were just another part of the rules.
Sensei Nick is an incredible teacher and the club is made up of knowledgable and talented students that make for amazing training partners! The club itself has a rich history that you feel as soon as you walk through the door. I have been training here for over 2.
I’ve been training at Cranford JKC - Younezuka Dojo for over a year, and it’s been fantastic. The instructors are highly skilled and always provide clear, helpful guidance, whether you’re a beginner or advancing your skills.
We joined Cranford Judo Karate Center about 10 years ago , my oldest son turned seven when my husband decided he will sign him up for judo because simply he wanted him to grow up with great values like; hard work , responsibility, and a healthy life style .
New to judo? Start at Cranford JKC-Yonezuka Dojo
Cranford JKC-Yonezuka Dojo comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo, going by their listing and members’ reviews. If you've never stepped on a mat, that's exactly who a good beginners program is for. A few things worth knowing before your first week. First, you don't need to be fit or flexible to start — you get in shape by training, not before it, and sensei scale the intensity to you. Second, you'll start by learning to fall safely (ukemi) — reputable dojos build fundamentals (breakfalls, grips, a first throw and some groundwork) for weeks, live randori eases in gradually, and tapping early keeps everyone safe. Third, all levels really are welcome — ask about a dedicated beginners class time so your first session is alongside others who are also starting out, and remember to bow in and show respect (rei). Most dojos are happy to let you watch or try a class first, so reach out before you commit.
Your first judo class at Cranford JKC-Yonezuka Dojo
Nervous about walking into a judo dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and good sensei expect beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, learning to fall safely (ukemi), then drilling a throw or two and some groundwork with a partner — not hard randori. Rest whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a judogi if you have one); you'll train barefoot on the mats. What to bring: water and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner judogi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own judogi. Live randori eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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