About Us

Our Story

Ishikawa Judo Club was established in September 1997 at the Deer Lake Dojo in Burnaby, British Columbia. Our founders began with a simple but profound vision: to introduce the art of Japanese Judo, rooted in the values of Bushido, to the local community, and to pass on not just its physical techniques but its rich cultural heritage.

In those early days, we were fortunate to be joined by Kahoru Ishikawa Sensei, a Judo therapist whose dedication and knowledge transformed our club. Trained by Sensei Masako Noritomi, a pioneer in women’s Judo and a disciple of Jigoro Kano himself. Sensei Ishikawa brought an extraordinary lineage to our dojo. In her honour, the club was renamed the Ishikawa Family Judo Club.

In 2004, we expanded to the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, marking a milestone that deepened our connection to Burnaby’s Japanese Canadian community. In 2007, we opened the Dunbar Community Centre Dojo, made possible by the generous support of the VPD Police Judo Club.

The pandemic tested us, as it tested everyone. But we returned to practice at the Nikkei Centre in 2023, stronger for the experience and grateful for the community that held us together. We are especially thankful to Ken and Audrey for their generous donation of roll mats at the Nikkei Centre, which has made safe practice possible. We continue to uphold the spirit of Judo, on and off the tatami.

Today, we offer three programs for students of all ages: Family, Junior, and Technical Judo. View our programs →