THE DOJO
Traditional Values for Modern Life
Budokan is Japanese for “Hall of Martial Arts.” At our multidisciplinary New York City dojo, we believe that a complete Martial Art represents three things: the practice of effective self-defense and practical combat skills (bujutsu), a journey of physical and mental self-actualization through rigorous training (budo), and a sport (kyogi). If you or your child have been in search of any or all of the above, the Japanese American Budokan is for you.
SENSEIS
Ryu Goto
Karate, Founder
Ryu began training karate at age 7 under Masataka Mori, and attained his black belt at the age of 10. A lifelong martial artist with nearly three decades of international competition experience, he formed the Japanese American Budokan in 2022 in order to share his joy of discovery and self-improvement with others, and to build a vibrant community centered on healthy activities. He holds both a Japan Karate Association and USA National Karate Federation 3rd degree black belt, and is a multiple time JKA National Team Member, AAU National Champion and Medalist, and 14th Funakoshi Gichin Cup World Championship Finalist. He is SafeSport Certified and has an A.B. in Physics from Harvard University.
Motomi Shimozawa
Yoga
Motomi started Pilates as a means to decrease her post-natal discomfort caused by poor posture and fatigue. Over a span of four years, her dedication to Pilates ignited an interest in the art of breath control and body movement. Upon her return to Japan, she immersed herself in the intensive study and practice of Yoga, spending hours unraveling the inner resonance between the mind and body. With the global pandemic, she started living in Singapore, spending her time to devote herself to the extensive study and preparation for the RYT200 exam conducted by the Yoga Alliance. Earning her license was a testament to her unwavering commitment and diligence. Motomi's dedication to Yoga has led her to explore various styles of yoga such as Hatha, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Wall Yoga, Rope Yoga, Aerial Yoga, and Wheel Yoga, among numerous others. Her practice of daily yoga has brought about significant improvement in her long-standing struggle with varicose veins. Her passion towards the art of Yoga is noticeable, as she loves sharing her experience and knowledge with individuals from all corners of the globe. Currently, she is studying and preparing for the RYT500, known and recognized worldwide, to further deepen her knowledge and expertise. She now resides in Brooklyn with a dog, her son, and her husband.
Chris Fukuma
Judo
Chris was born in Los Angeles to a long line of judoka, and began training at the age of 5. He proceeded to captain the California State University Long Beach judo team, and trained at the prestigious Tenri University in Japan. He is currently a 5th degree belt with over 40 years of experience. His numerous competition accolades include being a three-time US National Champion, six-time California State Champion, and an Osaka International bronze medalist. His motto is "fight smarter, not harder." He now resides in New York City and also travels extensively as a marathon runner.