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Kogi Dojo Judo
4.8 ★★★★★ 16 Google reviews · Judo dojo in San Jose, California
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
- Private lessons private, one-on-one coaching available — a focused way to start or to work around a busy schedule; ask about availability and rates
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule kogidojo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 510-857-4764
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5–9 pm |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 5–9 pm |
| Friday | 8–9 pm |
| Saturday | 1–4 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“Arik is a patient and knowledgeable instructor who makes every class a great learning experience whether you're a beginner or more advanced.”
“I took my kids here to learn Juno as they are beginner level.”
“Whether you're looking to improve your physical fitness, learn self-defense skills, or simply challenge yourself in a new and exciting way, Kogi Dojo is an outstanding choice.”
Other martial arts here
“Whether you're looking to improve your physical fitness, learn self-defense skills, or simply challenge yourself in a new and exciting way, Kogi Dojo is an outstanding choice.”
What members say
“Arik is a patient and knowledgeable instructor who makes every class a great learning experience whether you're a beginner or more advanced.”
“Arik is a patient and knowledgeable instructor who makes every class a great learning experience whether you're a beginner or more advanced.”
“He breaks down complex techniques into easy-to-understand components, provides personalized feedback, and creates a supportive environment that encourages growth and improvement.”
“He breaks down complex techniques into easy-to-understand components, provides personalized feedback, and creates a supportive environment that encourages growth and improvement.”
“The staff are super friendly and patient with my son. He is learning discipline and self defense.”
“The dojo itself is clean and welcoming, and the students are friendly and supportive, making it a great place for beginners and experienced practitioners alike.”
From the reviews
Kogi Dojo is a fantastic place to train with a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Arik is a patient and knowledgeable instructor who makes every class a great learning experience whether you're a beginner or more advanced.
I've been training at Kogi Dojo for a few weeks now, and I can confidently say it's one of the best decisions I've ever made. Arik's passion for judo is infectious, and his dedication to his students is unparalleled. The academy itself is clean, well-maintained, and equipped with top-notch facilities.
I have had the privilege of knowing the Director of Kogi Dojo, Quang (Arik) Dao, for over 20 years. In working with him so long, I have seen him exemplify a high level of leadership throughout his life. His ability to draw out the best in others is truly remarkable whether coaching individuals or guiding a team.
I recently joined Kogi Dojo as a beginner in Judo, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience! Sensei Arik is an incredible instructor—patient, knowledgeable, and passionate about teaching.
New to judo? Start at Kogi Dojo Judo
Kogi Dojo Judo 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 Kogi Dojo 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.
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