The Dojo

The Northbay Budokan is located in the heart of Wine Country just north of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Training

Dojo literally means "way place" or "training hall." We have dedicated our space to the task of strengthening our minds, bodies and spirits through the application of ancient technical principles and modern physical methods of development. Although basics are constantly stressed throughout all levels of training, we believe in a diverse regiment of study that allows students of all levels to continually grow. 

Rank & Testing

Testing is optional, though encouraged as a way to mark progression in your skills. Our school uses the kyu and dan system of ranks common in Japanese martial arts. After proceeding through the 10 kyu ranks, the student may test for shodan (first degree black belt). Our dan rankings are through our Japanese and US governing associations.

What Does the Northbay Budokan Symbol Represent?

Mon (紋) or kamon (家紋) are traditional family crests used both as heraldic symbols as well as corporate symbols. Mon were commonly adapted by various merchant organizations, temples and shrines. Japanese traditional formal attire generally displays the kamon of the wearer on the center back, chest and both sleeves of the jacket. Commoners without mon often used those of their patron or the organization they belonged to or invented whatever kamon they wished. It was not uncommon for shop-owners to develop mon to identify themselves and their business. It was occasionally true that patron clan leaders granted the use of their mon to outside retainers and clans as a sign of family or business ties. This was regarded similarly to the granting of the patron's surnames, this was considered a very high honor.

The Northbay Budokan uses the Mitsu Fuji-domoe kamon or wisteria crest that was first used in the late 1500’s by the Kuroda clan (黒田氏), a warrior clan from the Warring States period of Japan’s history. It is said to have been created by the famous Samurai warrior, Yoshitaka. Yoshitaka was held hostage for over a year by a rival clan. It was during his imprisonment that his health began to deteriorate and it is said that he was only able to endure his captivity due to the wisteria flowers growing in view of his cell. When he was released, he decided to use the flower as a part of his family crest to inspire himself and his men.

Brian Thomson, founder of the Northbay Budokan, received this crest from his longtime friend and teacher, Mr. Kenneth Shimizu Sensei, for which the kamon was his family crest. This kind gesture is proudly worn as a symbol of their friendship and pride in training.

Sensei Brian Thomson and all of the students affiliated with Northbay Budokan are honored to bear this ancient and beautiful symbol as a representation of the prosperity of Japanese tradition and culture shared here in the North Bay Area.