THE JAPAN JUDO TOUR
Train in the Birthplace of Judo
July 19 – July 27, 2027
Participants must be a resident of the United States.
Registration will open on November 1, 2026.
Spots are limited — registration will close as soon as all spots are filled.
Overview
Fully guided package tour just for you
The 10-day trip immerses participants in Japanese culture, featuring guided tours to Tokyo's most iconic sightseeing destinations. The Judo Tour offers world-class instruction at four top universities and two private dojos. Participants will have the opportunity to build friendships with Judoka from around the world while experiencing elite-level training programs. This tour provides a deeper understanding of Judo's rich history and culture.
Experience the Ultimate Judo Journey with Nakano Sensei
Dive into the heart of judo with the Japan Judo Tour, presented by Nakano Judo Academy. This exclusive tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of judo, visiting Japan's premier judo dojos and prestigious collegiate teams.
Highlights of the Tour Include
1. Elite Judo Training: Train and interact with some of Japan's top judo clubs and university teams. Gain firsthand experience and insights from the masters of this ancient martial art.
2. Cultural Exploration: Discover Tokyo's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. From historic temples to modern marvels, enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of Japan.
3. Friendship and Networking: Build lasting relationships with Japanese judokas. Exchange techniques, stories, and experiences with local practitioners who share your passion for judo.
4. Judo Powerhouse Experience: Witness the essence of judo in its birthplace. Explore the rich history and evolution of judo in Japan, the country where it all began.
Join us for a journey that blends intense training with cultural enrichment, and leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for judo.
"To have been able to visit & practice at the top Universities & the Kodokan in Japan and meet the elite Judokas was an amazing experience. We got the chance to experience Japanese Judo! The opportunities given by Nakano Sensei were experiences we would not have been able to achieve if we planned a trip on our own. "
-Daniela Serrano
Participants will train at seven of the top university teams and private dojos in Japan, and participate in four specially designed private sessions with world-class instructors.
NIHON-TAI-IKU UNIVERSITY:
Yosuke Yamamoto Sensei
The Nihon-Tai-Iku University Judo team is composed of nearly 130 students. Many world champions trained and graduated from the University. Toshihiko Koga, the 71 kg Olympic champions in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics is one of them. Currently, Koga's two sons are on the team. In addition, Hifumi Abe, the world champion in 66kg, is training at the university.
KOKUGAKUIN UNIVERSITY:
Daiki Sakamoto Sensei
Daiki Sakamoto Sensei is a coach at Kokugakuin University and a former member of the Japanese National Team. Kokugakuin is one of the top 8 strongest Judo universities in Japan and he personally coaches two of Japan’s current national team members. He was also the Head Coach of the Japanese Junior National Team from 2013 - 2016.
CHUO UNIVERSITY:
Yuta Sakamoto Sensei
Chuo University Judo team was established in 1905. The team has won the National Collegiate Judo Championships 3 times. The university has also produced two world champions and two Olympic champions. The judo team's professor, Mr. Isao Okano, was the 80 kg champion at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. He also graduated from the university in 1964.
TOKYO-JOSHI-TAI-IKU UNIVERSITY:
Aiko Sato Sensei
The Tokyo-Joshi-Tai-Iku University was established in 1902, and the women's judo team was formed in 2012. The head instructor Aiko Sato, was the 57 kg champion at the 2010 Tokyo World championships, and a Olympian team member in 2008. They have unique training programs, and the team has been one of the strongest women's judo team in Japan.
ASAHI DOJO:
Dai Asahi Sensei
The Asashi Dojo is one of the best dojos in Japan, winning gold countless times at the national dojo championships. Currently, the dojo has more than 130 active members and is overseen by its head coach, Dai Asahi Sensei. Asahi Sensei attended Meiji University and has coached many world and international players.
His program emphasizes character development and disciplined training. Asahi Sensei specializes in traditional judo fundamentals. He will lead a special session on competition drills during our visit.
OMIGAWA DOJO:
Michihiro Omigawa Sensei
Omigawa Dojo is headed by Omigawa Sensei. Omigawa Sensei graduated from the International Budo University. After graduating he participated in MMA, taking part in PRIDE, UFC, Sengoku and Dynamite. The Dojo has more than 100 members. He teaches students from 3 years old to adult.
THE KODOKAN INSTITUTE
Kodokan Judo was created in 1882 by Kano Jigoro. The Kodokan Institute started with 9 members and 12 mats, but is now an eight-story building, and the headquarters of the worldwide judo community. The Kodokan has 1,300 mats and 150 instructors, across the five main dojos. The Kodokan also has an extensive library with over 7,000 books pertaining to judo and four research labs focusing on the history study of judo as well as the psychological, technical and physiological study of judo.
PRIVATE SPECIAL SESSIONS
Aiko Sato Sensei:
World Champion in 57kg at the 2010 Tokyo, The Olympian in 2008.
Dai Asahi Sensei:
A current Coach of the Japanese Junior National Team.
Daiki Sakamoto Sensei:
A Coach of the Japanese Junior National Team from 2013 - 2016.
Michihiro Omigawa Sensei:
A former member of the Japanese National Team.
Experience the Best of Tokyo Sightseeing
Fees, Terms & Conditions
Tour Price
$2,750 per person
$2,500 for Nakano Judo Academy members
The tour price includes accommodation at the guest house, applicable dojo training fees, sightseeing activities, and transportation within Japan, including trains and buses. A final celebration dinner is also included. The price does not include meals during the tour or travel to and from Japan.
Participation is limited to 20 judoka in order to maintain a high-quality training experience. Participants must be at least 15 years old and have a minimum of one year of judo experience. Parents of participants are welcome to attend the tour for $2,250 per person.
FAQ & Travel Guidance
1. Airport Arrival
Should I arrive at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport in Tokyo?
You may arrive at either Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). If you arrive at Narita Airport, Nakano Sensei will meet you and escort you to the guest house. If you arrive at Haneda Airport or choose to travel to the guest house on your own, we will refund a transportation allowance per person to help cover the cost.
2. Guest House Information
Where will we stay?
Participants will stay at the Nihon Tai-Iku University Guest House, located in Setagaya, Tokyo.
Address (English)
Nihon Tai-Iku University Guest House
6-23-9 Fukasawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 158-0081, Japan
Address (Japanese)
日本体育大学 世田谷ゲストハウス
〒158-0081 東京都世田谷区深沢6丁目23-9
You can copy the Japanese address and show it to taxi drivers or public transportation staff if needed.
3. Laundry & Internet
Can I do laundry at the guest house?
Yes. The guest house has six free washer-dryer machines available for participants.
Will there be internet access?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available at the guest house.
4. What to Bring
Should I bring more than one judo gi?
Yes. We recommend bringing two judo gis so you can rotate them and allow time for drying between training sessions.
5. Tour Schedule
Will there be free time during the tour?
Yes. The tour includes two free days for sightseeing, relaxing, and exploring Tokyo.
6. Training Expectations
Will I be able to handle the training?
Yes. The training is flexible, and you decide how much you participate. You are welcome to join fully, take breaks as needed, or simply observe training sessions.
7. Money & Payments
Can I use a credit card in Japan?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted in Japan.
However, some smaller restaurants and shops may prefer cash, so it is a good idea to carry some Japanese yen with you.
8. Meals During the Tour
Participants will have many opportunities to enjoy local restaurants, casual eateries, and convenience stores throughout the tour. On average, participants can expect to spend approximately $25–$40 per day on meals, depending on their preferences.
9 . Eligibility
Who can join the tour?
Participants must:
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Be a resident of the United States
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Be a current member of USJF, USJA, or USA Judo
Cancellation Policy
Reservation
A $1,000 non-refundable deposit per person is required to secure your spot on the Japan Judo Tour. Your reservation will be confirmed once the deposit payment is received.
Cancellation Fees
If you need to cancel your participation, the following cancellation fees will apply:
Cancellation Timing Cancellation Fee
From reservation date $1,000 deposit per person
2 months before the tour (May 19 – June 18, 2027) 50% of the total tour price
1 month before the tour (June 19 – July 8, 2027) 75% of the total tour price
10 days before the tour (July 9, 2027 and after) 100% of the total tour price
Remarks & Important Information
Please review the following terms carefully before registering.
Transportation Refund
Participants who travel from the airport to the guest house on their own will receive a transportation reimbursement per person.
Minimum Participants Requirement
This is a group tour requiring a minimum of 10 participants. If the minimum number is not reached two months before the tour date, the tour may be cancelled. In this case, all payments will be fully refunded.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour package. Participants are strongly recommended to purchase their own travel insurance.
Schedule Changes
The tour schedule may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather conditions, facility availability, or other unexpected situations.
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing an unforgettable judo experience in Japan.
"I’ve always wanted to go to Japan to train or experience judo, but I don’t have the connections or don’t know how to access the top dojos and university teams."
That’s exactly why we created the Japan Judo Tour to make that dream a reality for you.