About Us

Best Martial Arts School in Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond

Washington Judo Academy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit sports club that aims to provide a world-class training program while fostering a positive, family-like community. Our club offers entry-level Judo classes for kids as young as 2 years old. We aim to make kids fall in love with the sport and provide them with strong fundamentals for long-term success.

For competitive kids, we offer a world-class advanced Judo program that has produced multiple nationally and internationally-ranked junior competitors. Our adult class is focused on drilling, friendly sparring, and an open-door culture. We welcome players from around the area and any grappling style to join us during our open mat hours.

As a non-profit club, all membership fees go towards paying rent and developing our program, including inviting top-level international coaches to come and teach at the academy.

Mike Hernandez
Mike Hernandez
2023-12-08
I've been visiting a number of martial arts schools for my 4 year old and I can honestly say WA Judo Academy is by far the best one I've seen. The class is fun, interactive, and sneakily teaches intro techniques via the in class play like drills. The instructors are fantastic, professional, and clearly have a ton of experience with kids. There is also lots of extra support via their older students and also encourage parents to participate! Saying this place is special would still be a understatement. Super inviting place glad we found it and that my son loves it too.
Saki Y
Saki Y
2023-12-05
I don’t usually do these, but I will for this group. WJA and it’s Senseis have treated my son with open arms and like family from the first day he started. They always keep it fun for the kids, while also teaching very high level technique. The students (and we as parents) are truly privileged to have Senseis who dedicate their time to teach on a voluntary basis. You know the Senseis truly love what they’re doing and care about their students when they do it voluntarily. And despite being a non-profit, they’ve been able to bring in the best coaches and teachers from around the US and the World to come teach! Sensei Tomoko, Sensei Micah, Sensei David and Sensei Evgeny are especially worthy of praise - they are good coaches and Senseis, but even better and kinder people. We are truly honored to be a part of this school!
Perry Knodle
Perry Knodle
2023-12-05
Fantastic community and development opportunity for athletes of all ages and skill levels.
Nelson Billing
Nelson Billing
2023-12-04
I do class here as an adult beginner and my 4 and 7 year olds do classes too. The kids go multiple times per week and I try to also go multiple times per week but lately can only do once. I personally really like the instruction, the atmosphere, and community at WJA. I find it a very welcoming and serious group. My kids love going to class here as well. I'm a beginner so I can't offer an expert opinion on how quickly they are learning but I can tell that they are definitely learning and developing over time. The club has frequent events which are both good to get to know the other families involved and good for the kids' development (potlucks, practice competitions, clinics). They have also had many guest instructors in my time there-- several from Japan and some from the US. There are also instructors from other local Judo or BJJ clubs who are friends and come to teach specific things. Lots of judokas from other local clubs come for the Friday night randori at WJA. Overall I think WJA is ideal for my family and I highly recommend it to both adults and families with kids.
Tianchu Liang
Tianchu Liang
2023-12-04
Great dojo, awesome senseis and fellow judokas. Great place to train!!
Alina Uzhvieva (Goryunova)
Alina Uzhvieva (Goryunova)
2023-12-04
My two kids and I have been attending classes at this dojo for almost a year now, and we couldn’t be happier with our experience. The coaches are highly professional and incredibly friendly and supportive. They support us during training sessions and competitions. Thank you, Washington Judo, for your dedication and commitment to your students, big and small!
Jessica Thompson
Jessica Thompson
2023-12-04
First rate judo practice and instruction! This dojo caters to all skill and belt levels, being beginnering, intermediate, or advanced. All ages welcome (kiddos and adults) and women-friendly! Everyone is incredibly friendly and supportive. If you're looking to get into judo or trying to find a new dojo, this is the place to go 🙂
Tanya C
Tanya C
2023-12-04
My son has been attending the Washington Judo Academy for three months now. The Sensei (Coaches) create a nurturing environment where my kid feels valued and respected. Every time there is a warm and welcoming atmosphere. But the discipline is never compromised. The Sensei are attentive to each student, providing clear instructions, constructive feedback, and personalized guidance. They instill in the children a sense of respect for the sport, their peers, and themselves. The training itself is rigorous and challenging, but it is always conducted with a sense of fun and enthusiasm. For my son that practices develop a strong foundation in judo techniques while also building physical fitness and endurance. The Washington Judo Academy is a friendly community that fosters personal growth, discipline, and a love for the sport. I am grateful for the positive impact the academy has had on my son, and I highly recommend it to any parent.
Radion
Radion
2023-12-04
I recently joined this judo dojo, and it has been an incredible experience. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in helping students succeed. The atmosphere is welcoming, and I appreciate the focus on both technique and personal growth. It's a fantastic place to learn judo and build a sense of community. Highly recommended!
Kaysen Luong
Kaysen Luong
2023-10-03
Go here 100% you will throw smoothly 10/10 real judo