Welcome to Japan Karate Association Santa Monica
Gichin Funakoshi, Founder of Shotokan Karate
Gichin Funakoshi
Founder of Shotokan Karate

We are a fully-accredited traditional martial arts dojo, teaching Shotokan karate to men, women and children for over 35 years under Sensei James Field, a 7th-degree black belt.

Karate is a weaponless system of self-defense, which is also an excellent all-around fitness regimen, exercising 90% of the body’s muscles in a combination of aerobic and anaerobic workouts. It also develops mental concentration and strong spirit. The ultimate goal: development of character.

Why choose us? Compare these features to other schools:

Worldwide Affiliation

Travel? Move often? The JKA/ISKF (International Shotokan Karate Federation) is found in over 80 countries and throughout the United States. Training and testing are standardized. Ranks earned in the JKA are respected throughout the worldwide organization. Books and videos are available to help supplement practice. (We are the U.S. Southwest regional headquarters of the JKA/ISKF, the largest Shotokan karate organization in the world.)

Quality Instruction

Mr. James Field is one of the top-ranked instructors in the world. A seventh degree black belt—within the JKA/ISKF, he is the third highest-ranking American (non-Japanese) in North, South, and Central America. A certified instructor, Mr. Field is one of the first American graduates of the rigorous JKA instructor training program. He has trained champions and has himself been a national and international champion many times.

Unlike other schools, most classes are taught by the chief instructor. No class is ever taught by anyone under the rank of Shodan.

Amount of Classes

We hold morning and evening classes for adults, and afternoon classes for children, 6 to 7 days a week. Training is unlimited—that is, you may participate in as many general classes as you wish. Facility includes showers. Student and family discounts are available.

Special Trainings

Special seminars, intensive training camps and special interest classes are available to members periodically throughout the year, as well as a national newsletter.


There are no contracts to sign.