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Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu Academy
5 ★★★★★ 78 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Honolulu, Hawaii
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
- Newaza newaza (groundwork) classes — judo's mat game of pins, holds, and controls, and a natural bridge to Brazilian jiu-jitsu
- Open mat open-mat randori sessions for members to practice live — always optional and at your own pace
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule tpjjhnl.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 808-452-0918
Hours
| Monday | 10 am–12 pm, 4:30–8:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 11:30 am–1 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–12 pm, 4:30–8:30 pm |
| Thursday | 11:30 am–1 pm |
| Friday | 9–10:30 am |
| Saturday | 9–10 am |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“Whether you’re a beginner or have been training for years, this is the perfect place to learn, grow, and be part of a genuine community.”
“Professor Kaleo and Tiffanie have worked for many years to create a family environment and culture that welcomes any background or experience level, for kids and adults.”
Other martial arts here
“He has a wonderful way of teaching with patience, encouragement, and respect while still helping the kids develop discipline, confidence, and strong jiu-jitsu skills.”
What members say
“If you’re looking for a jiu-jitsu school with excellent instruction, a strong sense of community, and a coach who truly cares about his students, we highly recommend TPJJ academy.”
“Whether you’re a beginner or have been training for years, this is the perfect place to learn, grow, and be part of a genuine community.”
“Professor Kaleo and Tiffanie have worked for many years to create a family environment and culture that welcomes any background or experience level, for kids and adults.”
“He goes beyond teaching techniques, focusing on holistic development to help kids grow into well-rounded individuals, not just athletes.”
“He has a wonderful way of teaching with patience, encouragement, and respect while still helping the kids develop discipline, confidence, and strong jiu-jitsu skills.”
From the reviews
Papakōlea Jiu-Jitsu in Kakaʻako is a true gem for families seeking to build their child’s confidence, resilience, and character. From the moment we stepped in, it was clear this is more than just a gym—it’s a community rooted in growth and respect.
Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu is absolutely incredible! The coaches are amazing—knowledgeable, patient, and truly dedicated to helping every student grow both on and off the mats. You can really feel the sense of ‘ohana here; everyone supports and pushes each other to be their best.
I've been a student here at Team Papakolea Jiu jitsu since 2018, I first met kaleo at my Barbershop in kakaako, he came showed love and offered a free class for us barbers "if" we were Interested.
As a 60 yr old new comer to jujitsu, I wanted a workout but worried about getting hurt and fitting in. Coach Kaleo is very welcoming and informative. From the first day I was welcomed and there was a warm feeling of ohana to the whole group.
New to judo? Start at Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu Academy
Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu 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 Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu 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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