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Nakano Judo Academy
4.9 ★★★★★ 116 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Santa Clara, California
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
- 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
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule nakanojudo.net — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (408) 829-3854
Hours
| Monday | 4:30–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 5:10–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 4:30–9 PM |
| Thursday | 5:10–9 PM |
| Friday | 7–9 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–12 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“Nakano Sensei is very detailed in providing instruction and teaching judo to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced and competition athletes.”
“Sensei Shintaro is an incredibly experienced judoka and has a unique ability to teach and connect with kids in a way that truly stands out.”
“As an adult beginner, I have learned so much in the past few months alongside other amazing and supportive students.”
“They have each won several national tournaments, including earning the title of USA Ranked #1 National Junior Athlete in the nation.”
“Frequent visits from some of the top competitors in Japan are also a plus, and it's amazing to learn from a former Japanese Olympics Team member.”
Other martial arts here
“Judo has introduced me to other sports, such as wrestling.”
What members say
“Nakano Sensei provides excellent instruction for all ages and levels, and the community here—especially the high-level judokas—are respectful, kind, and always willing to help.”
“Nakano Sensei is very detailed in providing instruction and teaching judo to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced and competition athletes.”
“Nakano Sensei is not only an inspiring teacher, but also a renowned former Japan national judo champion who leads with humility, positivity, discipline, and respect.”
“I also highly recommend staying for a moment after class—don’t be scared to ask questions, as his insights on the small details make a massive difference in your technique.”
“As a parent, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing your child gain confidence, resilience, discipline, and purpose while being guided by such positive role models.”
“Nakano Sensei is very detailed in providing instruction and teaching judo to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced and competition athletes.”
From the reviews
Judo here is top tier, I've trained for 10 months and my grappling capability and confidence has greatly improved. Nakano is an incredible teacher and the other Judokas here are just as helpful and knowledgeable.
Nakano Judo Academy is an amazing place to learn and practice judo. I’ve been training here for about two years, and the environment is welcoming, supportive, and truly a safe space.
When my son first started judo at 7 years old, it honestly was not something he showed much interest in. Before Nakano Judo, we had tried many different sports and martial arts, but for some reason, this one stuck.
Nakano Judo Academy is a special place for our family, where our daughters have learned discipline, dedication, humility, and safety. Nakano Sensei is very detailed in providing instruction and teaching judo to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced and competition athletes.
New to judo? Start at Nakano Judo Academy
Nakano Judo Academy comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo — noted on their own site. 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 Nakano Judo Academy
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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