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Shotokan Karate of America
4.8 ★★★★★ 35 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Los Angeles, California
Part of Shotokan Karate (JKA)
Affiliated dojo — reviews and the dojo's own info point to a recognized Karate style organization or franchise (think Shotokan/JKA, Kyokushin, Goju-Ryu, Isshinryu, Tiger Schulmann's or Villari's). If lineage matters to you, ask which style and organization the dojo belongs to, and under whom the head sensei earned their black belt.
Plan your first class
- Beginner-friendly all levels welcome, including total beginners — you don't need to be fit or have any experience to start
- Kids & youth classes kids and youth Karate classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Competition team a competition team for students who want to test themselves at kumite tournaments
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule ska.org — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 213-437-0988
Hours
| Monday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“Whether you're a beginner or have prior experience, this club provides an incredible environment to grow both physically and mentally.”
“This idea carried through the weekend of kata, kumite and nagewaza practice.”
“This idea carried through the weekend of kata, kumite and nagewaza practice.”
“Openhanded self-defense against a samurai determined what techniques were most effective.”
Other martial arts here
“Time had passed since I had trained in any martial arts and I had no interest joining a Muay Thai or Jiu-Jitsu type gym.”
“Time had passed since I had trained in any martial arts and I had no interest joining a Muay Thai or Jiu-Jitsu type gym.”
“Openhanded self-defense against a samurai determined what techniques were most effective.”
What students say
“From white belts to black, from beginners onward, there is a palpable, old-school karate energy that permeates this place.”
“The atmosphere in every practice is something truly special—focused, serious, and deeply respectful.”
“It’s not just about learning techniques; it’s about developing a strong mindset, discipline, and pushing yourself beyond limits.”
“This idea carried through the weekend of kata, kumite and nagewaza practice.”
“As a former instructor at San Jose Shotokan, I have to say that this dojo, as well as the broader SKA organization, is top notch for traditional martial arts instruction.”
“They put immense effort into teaching in the most effective and disciplined way, ensuring that every student improves and understands the deeper principles of karate.”
From the reviews
I have been practicing with SKA since 2008. The non-profit ideology, countless high quality selfless black belt teachers, emphasis on being humble, emphasis on discipline, facing our selves with the strictest eyes and many other key life lessons were all thing I learned just because I got to join this wonderful…
Started with this Shotokan organization in July of 1991. Our seniors are the real deal. My whole life is a better place because of my practice. Highly recommended for a real martial arts experience.
SKA is an excellent organization. The karate teachings of Ohshima Sensei inspire and motivate one to be a "better human being." I've practiced SKA karate for almost 10 years now and I'm still learning. This has become part of my life. This organization changed the way I think and act.
I highly recommend Shotokan Karate of America for people looking for authentic rigorous karate practice. There are dojos all across the US and affiliate dojos worldwide.
New to Karate? Start at Shotokan Karate of America
Shotokan Karate of America comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo — noted on their own site. If you've never thrown a punch or set foot in a dojo, that's exactly who a good beginners program is for. A few things worth knowing before your first week. First, you don't need to be fit or flexible to start — you get in shape by training, not before it, and the sensei scales the intensity to you. Second, you won't be thrown into hard sparring — reputable dojos build fundamentals (stances, blocks, punches, and kicks) for weeks, and kumite (sparring) eases in gradually, with pads and control. Third, all levels and ages really are welcome — ask about a dedicated beginners or fundamentals class time so your first session is alongside others who are also starting out. Most dojos are happy to let you watch or try a class first, so reach out before you commit.
Your first Karate class at Shotokan Karate of America
Nervous about walking into a Karate dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and a good sensei expects beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, then drilling basic stances, blocks, punches, and kicks — not hard sparring. Step to the side whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a gi if you have one); you'll train barefoot. What to bring: water, and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner gi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own gi and the belt your dojo awards you. Kumite (sparring) eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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