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Hanabi Judo

4.9 ★★★★★ 34 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Albany, California

Judo dojo Free trial Kids & teens

Plan your first class

  • Free trial or intro class most dojos welcome new members with a free trial or intro class — check their site or give them a call to book your first session
  • Kids & youth classes kids and youth judo classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
  • Today see hours ·
  • Website & schedule hanabijudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
  • Phone (510) 604-6640

Hours

Monday 4:30–8 PM
Tuesday 4–8:30 PM
Wednesday 4:30–8 PM
Thursday 5–8:30 PM
Friday 4:30–8 PM
Saturday 8:15 AM–2:30 PM
Sunday Closed

Hours shift for holidays, seminars, and open-mat times — worth a quick check before a special trip.

The classes they run

Judo classes on the schedule at Hanabi Judo, confirmed in members' own reviews and the dojo's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🧒 Kids Judo 25 mentions

“This is a terrific place if you're looking for a martial arts class for your kids - a good balance of discipline and fun, and an introduction to Japanese culture.”

All dojos that run kids judo →

🤸 Throws (Nage-waza)

“She comes home having worked her body out hard, telling me excitedly about the new pins and throws she has learned.”

All dojos that run throws (nage-waza) →

What members say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 34 Google reviews — in their own words.

🌱 welcoming to beginners 3 mentions

“We want to thank Hanabi Judo and Master Sensei Dan for welcoming our son into this amazing kids’ judo program.”

🤝 respectful, no-ego dojo 14 mentions

“The instructors created an excellent environment for my 6-year-old son and his classmates, having fun and learning Judo while practicing respect for one another.”

🧒 strong kids program 3 mentions

“This is a terrific place if you're looking for a martial arts class for your kids - a good balance of discipline and fun, and an introduction to Japanese culture.”

🧠 builds confidence & discipline 11 mentions

“This is a terrific place if you're looking for a martial arts class for your kids - a good balance of discipline and fun, and an introduction to Japanese culture.”

From the reviews

Hanabi is our second family! The community here is so welcoming and supportive that the children feel safe and cared. My son is seven now and he has been playing Judo at Hanabi since he was four. Hanabi has definitely made a huge contribution in building confidence in my son. He enjoys going there.

★★★★★ — Shingis, Jan 2026

I started Judo 8 years ago at age 41 after participating as a child for a year or two way back when. Its been a great way to stay in shape. Dan Augustine and family provide a great environment for adults and kids. I have made progress physically and mentally from Judo.

★★★★★ — Ivan, Aug 2018

My daughter (4th grade) LOVES Hanabi Judo! She has a physical disability that makes running difficult and has weaker leg strength. I wasn’t sure how she would fare in Judo but I always encourage her to try different activities. Judo has been absolutely wonderful for her. She truly loves it!

★★★★★ — Claire, Mar 2026

My son started when he was 3 and now 7. Perfect combination of discipline and support. Great culture and phenomenal guidance. Can’t say enough good things about what Sensei Dan has developed.

★★★★★ — Ricardo, Aug 2018

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 34 reviews →

Your first judo class at Hanabi Judo

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.

Judo is a contact sport. Ease in, tap early and often, listen to your sensei, and if you have any injuries or health concerns, mention them before class and check with a doctor if you're unsure.

Where to find Hanabi Judo

841 San Pablo Ave, Albany, CA94706

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and member reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this dojo? Claim your listing — it's free.