Kokushi Budo Institute

Kokushi Budo Institute is located at 331 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10025, United States of America.

The Kokushi Budo Institute has been a cornerstone of martial arts training in New York since 1963.

Founded by Nobuyoshi Higashi, the institute carries forward a lineage rooted in the teachings of Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo.

The school operates under the leadership of Shintaro Higashi, son of the founder and a former international competitor and multiple-time national champion.

His guidance ensures the continuation of a disciplined, tradition-based approach to martial arts.

Training at Kokushi Budo Institute emphasizes both personal development and technical mastery.

The curriculum includes Adult Judo, Kids Judo, Karate, and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups.

Participants as young as 4 years old can join the Tiny Champs program, which introduces foundational movement and discipline in a safe, structured environment.

Beginners of all ages receive careful instruction, with classes designed to integrate new practitioners without risk.

The institute is located on the Upper West Side, Manhattan, near Columbia University and accessible via the 1 train at 103rd St station.

This central location makes it a convenient destination for families and adults across the city.

The facility includes modern amenities such as showers, supporting members who train during or after work hours. Shintaro Higashi leads by example, drawing on his competitive background to mentor both recreational and serious judoka.

His leadership has helped maintain the school’s reputation for excellence in martial arts education.

The Kokushi Budo Institute remains committed to preserving the integrity of traditional Japanese martial arts while adapting instruction for contemporary learners.

Over decades, the institute has built a community grounded in respect, perseverance, and mutual growth.

Whether pursuing judo for fitness, self-defense, or competition, members benefit from a structured path that supports long-term progress.

Belt progression, discipline, and confidence are central outcomes of the training experience.

The Kokushi Budo Institute continues to be a trusted name in martial arts, offering a legacy of quality instruction in the heart of New York.