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San Francisco Judo Institute
4.8 ★★★★★ 20 Google reviews · Judo dojo in San Francisco, California
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.
Established, non-profit academy offering Japanese martial arts classes for adults, teens & children.
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
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule sfji.org — book classes and see the live schedule
Hours
| Monday | 5–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 5–9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 5–9 PM |
| Thursday | 5–7:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:30–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–3:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–12 PM |
The classes they run
“The kids’ classes are particularly impressive, fostering discipline, confidence, and skill in a fun and engaging environment.”
Other martial arts here
“SF Judo Institute is a stellar place to learn Judo & Jiu Jitsu.”
What members say
“The welcoming atmosphere, strong camaraderie, and high-level training make this dojo a gem in the judo community.”
“The kids’ classes are particularly impressive, fostering discipline, confidence, and skill in a fun and engaging environment.”
From the reviews
San Francisco Judo Institute is an outstanding dojo that embodies the true spirit of judo. The instruction here is top-notch, led by an incredible team of knowledgeable and caring senseis.
SF Judo Institute is a stellar place to learn Judo & Jiu Jitsu. Our 7 year old son has been taking classes there for about 6 months, and we are super impressed with the skill level of the instructors, the structure of the classes, and the overall vibe. It is very community oriented and fun.
I am a French judoka travelling in SF, I went to training at SF Judo Institute, and I've been very well welcomed. I highly recommand this judo training school. You will find there a quality teaching, trustworthy to the Japanese tradition.
What an amazing and inspiring place for our kids! Love the values (art part of martial arts) and discipline you teach our kids. Thank you Senseis!
New to judo? Start at San Francisco Judo Institute
San Francisco Judo Institute 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 San Francisco Judo Institute
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. 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.
More judo dojos near San Francisco
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Cahill's Judo Academy
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🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site